More than 6,000 widows from across Kericho County converged at Kericho Teachers Training College for an empowerment forum aimed at helping them overcome socio-economic challenges and improve their livelihoods.
The gathering, organised by Hope Alive International, brought together women from different parts of the county, for a day of encouragement, networking and access to opportunities.
Principal Secretary for Gender Affairs Ann Wangombe, who was the chief guest, said the government recognised the challenges faced by widows and would continue supporting initiatives that enable them to become economically independent.
“Widows deserve more than sympathy; they deserve meaningful support, equal opportunities, and the chance to build a brighter future for themselves and their families,” Ms Wangombe said.
She urged stakeholders to move beyond short-term interventions and create sustainable programmes that equip widows with skills, resources and opportunities to support their households.
Presidential Advisor on Gender Affairs Dr Tecla Tum said the forum provided an opportunity to recognise the resilience of women who have continued raising families and contributing to their communities despite difficult circumstances.
“When we empower a widow, we empower an entire family. When we restore her dignity, we restore hope for generations,” Dr Tum said.
Kericho Governor Dr Eric Mutai said the county government would continue working with national government agencies and other partners to support vulnerable groups through programmes designed to improve their livelihoods.
The governor was accompanied by Kericho Woman Representative Beatrice Kemei, Hon Lily Ng’ok, nominated MCA Mercy Langat Chebaibai, several MCAs and other stakeholders.
Ms Kemei said women required access to practical opportunities that could enable them to earn a living, support their children and participate meaningfully in the development of their communities.
Hon Langat said the large turnout demonstrated the importance of creating spaces where widows can interact, share their experiences and learn about available opportunities.She particularly noted the participation of widows from Kapsuser Ward, saying the women felt recognised and appreciated through the initiative.
The programme also sought to connect participants with information on economic empowerment, social inclusion and initiatives that can strengthen household incomes.
Participants said the forum had given them an opportunity to interact with leaders and fellow widows while gaining encouragement to pursue activities that could improve their economic circumstances.
Hope Alive International was commended for bringing together thousands of widows and creating a platform for discussions on issues affecting them.
The organisers called for continued cooperation between government agencies, community organisations and other partners to ensure empowerment initiatives translate into lasting benefits for beneficiaries.
The forum concluded with an appeal for greater investment in programmes that give widows the tools and opportunities needed to provide for their families and contribute to the wider community.
by Faith Chelang’at and Monica Irua
