Women in Vihiga County remain central to family welfare and economic development despite facing financial and social challenges, Vihiga Woman Representative Beatrice Adagala has said.
Speaking during an interview on Vihiga FM, Adagala described women as the backbone of families, noting that they play a leading role in providing for households and supporting children’s education and well-being.
She lauded the increasing participation of women in leadership, citing their appointment as village elders, chiefs, assistant chiefs, and officials in both county and national government.
However, Adagala expressed concern over limited access to finances, exploitation of women traders, family conflicts, and rising cases of gender-based violence.
She called for stronger community structures and greater involvement of elders in promoting social values and family cohesion.
During the programme, a caller from Mbale raised concerns over transparency in the allocation of empowerment opportunities. In response, Adagala urged residents to submit applications through the required channels, emphasizing that government support is issued through established procedures.
She encouraged women to remain united, hardworking, and self-reliant, saying economic empowerment of women is key to improving livelihoods and strengthening communities across the county.
By Crispinus Ivan and Winstar Jaika
