In a move to bolster women’s empowerment, the Women’s Representative for West Pokot, Rael Aleotum, has donated Ks510, 000 to support women’s economic empowerment and foster community development in Suam Ward, benefiting 400 women through the Kelpotamas women’s group association.
The initiative from the Women’s Representative aims to rebuild the lives of women, strengthen their families, and foster community development.
The donation was channelled through Kelpotamas, a local women’s association group.
During the donation of the funds, the community leaders and women’s groups gathered to celebrate progress.
During the event at Kacheliba Constituency with the women’s group, Aleotum praised the women’s group for managing five acres of land.
She emphasized that women are essential for sustainable development and encouraged continued empowerment and active participation among women in community initiatives.
She urged women to serve as role models in eradicating outdated practices like FGM and highlighted the ongoing commitment to grassroots empowerment efforts across West Pokot, noting support extended to at least other wards in the county through training, startup capital, and education forums.
“So far, I have supported initiatives in at least 20 wards across West Pokot County. These have included training programs for women’s groups, provision of start-up capital for small businesses, and anti-FGM education forums,” She Confirmed.
Women’s Representative Aleotum stated ‘‘Empowering women is not just about social justice; it is a key driver of sustainable development. I commend Kelpotamas for their foresight and commitment to positive change.’’
Local leaders also expressed their support; Kapenguria Member of County Assembly Richard Mastaluk committed with other leaders to ensure the success of development projects aimed at uplifting women’s groups.
He urged women to do away with outdated traditional practices and called on parents to ensure they educate all of their children to foster a brighter and more progressive future for the community.
Nominated MCA Mary Cherop expressed her gratitude for Aleotum’s office support, highlighting that such interventions have the power to transform communities.
She also called on men to participate actively in empowerment efforts, emphasizing that gender equality benefits everyone and is essential for sustainable development.
Chepososir Losekou a beneficiary from the Kelpotamas women’s association shared the women’s achievements, including land ownership and plans to build a hotel to generate income.
She said that through the association, they have transformed communities by promoting dignity, safety, and opportunity for women and girls.
Evaline Kamatai said the region has been facing challenges related to GBV and FGM, especially in Kacheliba Constituency, but grassroots initiatives like Kelpotamas are leading the way towards positive change in the community.
She said the empowerment will help them to not only improve their lives but will also make them set powerful examples for others to follow.
Kamatai said the Kelpotamas women’s group association is known for their efforts in empowering themselves economically and in their fight against gender based violence (GBV) and female genital mutilation (FGM).
By Agneta Chebet and Anthony Melly
