Ruiru widows have been urged to form groups to address the challenges facing them and improve their livelihood.
Ruiru Widows Welfare Chairlady Nancy Wangari said widows are undergoing tough times and stigmatization, after their in-laws have abandoned them following the deaths of their husbands.
“The suffering of widows in Ruiru can be alleviated by forming groups to chart their interests,” said Wangari.
Speaking on Thursday at Makuyu Location, Gitothua Ward, Ruiru sub-county during a presentation of goodies to Makuyu widows, Wangari urged widows to come together and form one umbrella to push for their grievances.
“With groups, we will be able to push for our demands and other pressing issues,” added Wangari, noting that many widows are subjected to humiliations after the deaths o their spouses.
“Some widows have been chased away by their in-laws and their property confiscated” , said Wangari. We have female advocates who are versed in domestic violence who will help us to sort out our predicaments,” said Wangari.
She urged widows who have fallen victims of domestic violence by their in-laws to seek legal assistance, adding that the constitution guarantees the rights of widows.
“Our constitution guarantees every widow to be accorded the family rights like inheritance,” said wangari.
During the occasion, over 20 widows received cloths and other presents including cash.