Leaders of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Women League in Kericho County have called on young people to acquire national identity cards, register as voters and reject violence, saying active participation in democratic processes is essential for national development and political stability.
The leaders made the remarks during the UDA Women League Kericho Chapter’s Second Annual General Meeting held at Tea Hotel in Kericho Town. The meeting brought together more than 1,000 women drawn from across the county’s six sub-counties to review the league’s activities, deliberate on development issues affecting women and mobilize support for government programmes targeting women, youth and vulnerable groups.
The forum focused on strengthening grassroots mobilisation, enhancing women’s participation in leadership and creating awareness on national development initiatives being implemented by the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Speakers noted that increased public participation in government programmes would accelerate socio-economic transfomation and improve household welfare across the county.
Nominated Member of the County Assembly (MCA) Lily Sirma commended government efforts to recognize and support small-scale traders, popularly known as Mama Mboga, through empowerment programmes targeting the informal sector.
She said women engaged in small businesses form the backbone of many households and that empowering them directly improves family incomes, food security and local economic growth.
“The government has recognized the important role played by Mama Mboga in our economy. These women support their families through small businesses and deserve opportunities to grow. We also urge young people to reject violence and instead register as voters so they can participate in shaping the country’s future,” said Sirma.
UDA Women League Kericho Chapter Organizing Secretary Joyce Marindany lauded ongoing government development programmes, including the Affordable Housing Programme, the Social Health Authority (SHA) initiative and water projects, saying they are improving livelihoods across the country.
She said the Affordable Housing Programme is not only providing decent and affordable homes but also creating employment opportunities for thousands of young people in the construction sector and related industries.
“These investments have stimulated local economies by increasing demand for building materials, transport services and other supporting enterprises,” said Marindany.
She added that SHA and water projects are expanding access to healthcare and essential services while improving the quality of life for many households.
Marindany urged young people who have not yet acquired national identity cards to do so without delay, noting that the document is essential for voter registration and access to government services, employment opportunities and financial inclusion.
“More than 1,000 women from different parts of Kericho County attended today’s annual general meeting, showing growing commitment by women to leadership and development. We also appeal to eligible youth to obtain their national identity cards and register as voters because they play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future,” she said.
She further noted that the AGM provided members with an opportunity to assess progress, exchange ideas on issues affecting women, strengthen grassroots structures and reaffirm commitment to supporting development programmes aimed at improving livelihoods and promoting peace.
By Gilbert Mutai
