Nyamira –First Lady Rachel Ruto on Monday led Kenya’s commemoration of International Widows’ Day with a pledge to strengthen the government’s support for widows. Speaking at Buga Primary School in Nyamira County, she called for both economic inclusion and cultural change.
“The government of Kenya is making notable progress,” she said. “More than 15,000 widows have accessed business capital through the Hustler Fund and county-level women’s programs. Over 2,000 now hold AGPO certificates, which open doors to government procurement.”
The First Lady emphasized that support must go beyond money. “Economic empowerment alone is not enough,” she said. “We must confront cultural practices that deny widows their dignity. Communities must stand with widows, not isolate them.”
She urged widows to form and remain active in self-help groups, which she described as essential gateways to government support. “Serikali ina mipango mingi. Tuingie vikundi na tusivunje vikundi,” she said, encouraging consistent participation in organized group networks.
The call for broader support extended to the public. “We can all help,” she added. “Give what you have visit widows in your neighborhood. Offer help from your home or your farm.”
Calls for a separate widow-specific fund were addressed directly. Harriette Chiggai, Advisor to the President on Women’s Rights, said the government will not create a new fund but encouraged women to align with existing financing streams. “There are already numerous funds. What we must do is coordinate our programs with what is available,” she said.
Nominated MP Irene Mayaka announced plans to seek a formal statement in Parliament to determine the number of widows in Kenya. “To ensure the budget works for widows, we must first have the right data,” she said.
Nyamira Woman Representative Jerusha Momanyi urged local mentorship. “There is money for widows,” she said. “We must guide them on how to grow their economies.”
The event also spotlighted the personal hardships widows face, such as property loss and social exclusion. Speakers called for legal awareness and early documentation to protect widows’ rights.
Marsabit Woman Representative Naomi Waqo echoed that urgency. “Many widows suffer in silence,” she said. “Let us prioritize their issues and bring lasting change.”
International Widows’ Day, marked annually on June 23, highlights the struggles and contributions of widows worldwide. This year’s theme in Kenya focused on dignity, protection, and access to opportunity through structured national programs.
