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Siaya leaders urged not to politicize women’s empowerment as KSh21.8M is distributed

July 16, 2026 05:13 PM
Political leaders have been called upon to stop using women and youth empowerment programmes for political mileage as distribution of KSh21.8 million to grassroots women’s groups began this week.

Tabitha Ogutu, CEO of the Siaya Community Digital Hub, made the appeal while launching the disbursement in Siaya Township Ward. Ogutu said empowerment must translate into practical support that improves livelihoods rather than becoming a political slogan.

“We want to ensure that women’s empowerment is not just a phrase politicians repeat until it becomes a cliché,” she said. “Empowerment should be tangible, felt and reflected in the lives of our women.”

Ogutu criticized the practice of convening women to collect handouts tied to political events, saying genuine empowerment focuses on long-term economic transformation. She said the funds, raised during a recent women’s empowerment fundraiser backed by Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga, will be channelled directly to beneficiaries to support business growth and financial independence.

The KSh 21.8 million will be shared among 328 women’s groups across the county. The disbursement began in Siaya Township and will move to Ugunja and Ugenya, with organisers aiming to complete distribution by the end of next week.
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Brian Osieku 1 month ago

good move