The County Administration of Uasin Gishu has affirmed their commitment to ensuring that widows are included in county development programmes and decision-making processes.
In a speech delivered by his Deputy Evans Kapkea, during International Widows Day 2026 at the County headquarters, Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii Chelilim said they recognize the sacrifices made by widows assuring them of the county support through economic empowerment initiatives.
Bii acknowledged that many widows carry immense responsibilities after their spouses die. However, he reminded them that, they are not only beneficiaries of government programmes but also valued members of the society, contribute to the economy, and are pillars of the communities.
“This day with the theme “Justice, Dignity and Economic Power for Widows – African Perspectives” reminds us that widows’ affairs matter. They bear many responsibilities after the loss of their spouses,” noted the Governor.
“They become parents, providers, caregivers, mentors, and community leaders, often navigating these challenges with remarkable courage and resilience,” he added.
He commended the widows for their resilience to bring up children singlehandedly noting that their strength keeps families together and nurtures future generations.
Dr. Bii further acknowledged the receipt of the request for a Widows Affairs Office highlighting the need for a stronger platform to address issues affecting widows.
He indicated that the county already has structures under the Departments of Social Services and Gender that address the needs of widows and other vulnerable groups. He said they will continue strengthening these structures to better serve them.
“Your proposal for a Widows Rescue Centre and Social Care Programme is noble, timely, and worthy of support. Such an initiative has the potential to provide protection, counselling, empowerment, and hope to widows facing social and economic challenges. We shall engage further on how this can be strengthened within our existing social protection framework,” he noted.
In regard to welfare and healthcare, the governor affirmed continued support to widows through enhanced access to Social Health Authority (SHA) services and other social protection programmes. These efforts, he added aims to ensure that widows can access quality healthcare without undue hardship.
“We will work closely with relevant agencies and stakeholders to ensure that more widows are enrolled in health cover and are able to access healthcare services when they need them,” he noted.
He assured them of the county’s support through collaboration with relevant institutions, legal aid providers, community leaders, and administrators to create awareness on succession processes and protect widows from disinheritance, exploitation, and property grabbing.
By Ekuwam Sylvester
