The County Government of Uasin Gishu today marked International Widows Day at the County Headquarters under the theme “Security Rights, Restoring Dignity: An Era of Social Inclusion for All.”

The event brought together widows, county officials, and stakeholders to raise awareness of the challenges faced by widows and advocate for the protection of their rights, dignity, and social inclusion.

Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii was represented by Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea, who reaffirmed the county’s commitment to supporting widows through programs aimed at enhancing their welfare and ensuring they are not left behind in development initiatives.

Uasin Gishu Woman Representative Gladys Boss Shollei was represented by David Waiganjo, who called for continued collaboration among government agencies, development partners, and communities to address the challenges facing widows and create opportunities for their growth and well-being.

Also present were CECM for Education, Technical Training, Gender, Social Protection and Culture Eng. Lucy Ng’endo and Chief Officer for Gender and Social Protection Marion Birgen, who emphasized the importance of empowering widows through social protection and economic empowerment programs.

The leaders urged society to uphold and protect the rights of widows while promoting an inclusive environment where they can live with dignity and actively participate in social and economic development.

The event was also attended by Members of the County Assembly (MCAs), representatives from widows’ groups across Uasin Gishu County, and development partners, including Gynocare and the Kenya Red Cross, who reaffirmed their commitment to supporting widows and vulnerable members of society.