Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has urged National and County leaders to roll out sustainable programmes that support widows, calling them one of the most neglected and vulnerable groups in society.
Speaking during the commemoration of International Widows Day at ACK Church in Butere, Barasa emphasised the urgent need to integrate widows into development agendas at all levels of government. "Widows face immense socio-economic challenges, yet they remain largely invisible in our policy frameworks," he said, adding, "We must place their welfare at the centre of our planning and implementation." The governor pointed out that many widows continue to suffer silently due to limited access to economic opportunities, lack of social safety nets and community neglect.
He called on both state and non-state actors to work together in creating inclusive programmes that provide financial support, mental health services, and legal protections for widowed women.
By John Ochanda
