During the launch of the Loitokitok Widows Sacco in Kimana, Kajiado South, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, the Deputy President’s Spouse, emphasized the need to economically empower widows in Kenya. She highlighted the challenges faced by widows, including disinheritance, discrimination, financial instability, and emotional distress, which often leave them struggling to provide for their families. Rigathi stressed that economic empowerment is crucial in breaking down economic, social, and cultural barriers for widows.
The Sacco’s launch aims to provide widows with access to financial services, including saving money and accessing affordable loans. Rigathi emphasized that the Sacco would create a platform for widows to access affordable credit, support livelihoods, and gain financial literacy. Additionally, she encouraged widows to form support groups and engage in income-generating activities such as beekeeping, beadwork, and dairy goat keeping.
Nominated Senator Peris Tobiko also underscored the challenges faced by widows, calling on the county government and development partners to support programs aimed at empowering widows financially. Over 3000 widows attended the Sacco launch in Kimana, where they received food items, dairy goats, and over one million shillings in support.
