Leaders mark International Widows day in Nyamira and Kisii

Widows across Nyamira and Kisii have been recognized and celebrated during this year's International Widows Day.

The events shed light on the deep struggles faced by widows in Kenya.

In Nyamira County, the event was hosted by West Mugirango MP Stephen Mogaka, with the First Lady Rachel Ruto as the chief guest. 

The event brought together hundreds of widows who shared testimonies of their experiences, grappling with poverty, trauma, and depression after the loss of their spouses. 

Many highlighted how they face harmful societal perceptions, with some being labeled as “husband snatchers.”

They appealed to the government to form a dedicated group that will address their specific needs and challenges, including economic empowerment, mental health support, and protection against stigma.

In her address, the First Lady encouraged widows to join financial groups as a way to access support and improve their livelihoods.

“The government cannot reach out to every individual, that’s why it’s good for you as widows to join groups so that you get help through the groups."

In her speech Mrs Ruto acknowledged that through the hustler fund and the county women enterprise programs more than 15,000 widows have received capital for business revival and over 2,000 widows have received access to government procurement opportunities,up for certificates enabling their full participation in national economic life.

The area MP Stephen Mogaka also pledged to support the widows 

"In my CDF office , starting the fisrt of August, i will employ an advocate through my own salary who will be in that office to look into the issues of widows."

The leaders in accordance agreed to take the widows concerns to Parliament.

Meanwhile, in Ibeno, Nyaribari Chache MCA Steve Arika led a similar celebrations.

During the event the widows were to embrace healing and prioritize their mental well-being. 

MCA's who also attended the event also emphasized the need for widows to come to terms with their loss and actively participate in financial self-help groups as a path out of poverty.

Speakers at the event reminded widows not to look down upon themselves and to reclaim their dignity despite societal prejudice. 

These events come at a time when various organizations and leaders are stepping up efforts to support widows and young teen mothers across the country.