Harriette Chiggai, President William Ruto’s Advisor on Women’s Rights, has called on women to pursue economic empowerment as a means to combat the rising incidence of gender-based violence in Kenya.
Recent government data reveals a concerning increase in such cases, with the rate climbing from 26 percent to 30 percent over the past year.
Chiggai emphasized that while economic stability is crucial, it alone does not completely protect women from becoming targets of violence.
“Achieving financial security is important, but it does not eliminate vulnerability,” she stated.
She urged women to actively engage in activities that enhance and protect their economic well-being.
In addition to advocating for economic empowerment, Chiggai stressed the need for creating secure and supportive home environments.
“It’s essential to establish safe homes and spaces where families can live without fear,” she added.
Chiggai’s comments were made during a women’s economic empowerment event hosted by Freedom Embassy Church, where over 250 women received seed funding to help start and develop their own businesses.
The church allocated a total of half a million shillings to ten different women’s groups to support their entrepreneurial ventures.
Dr. Rev Jane Mwikali, Chair of the Betting Control and Licensing Board and lead pastor at Freedom Embassy Church, also spoke at the event.
She encouraged women, particularly widows, to take control of their economic futures, highlighting the potential for success with the support of government initiatives and community backing.
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