On 24 June 2024, the Military Wives Association of Kenya commemorated International Widows Day at Ulinzi Sports Complex, Langata Garrison, for the Nairobi Region members.
The event dubbed ‘Accelerating the achievement of gender equality’ was precided over by MWAK Executive member Monica Tarus who appreciated the leadership of Kenya Defence Forces Widows and Orphans (KeDWO) for organizing this event which seeks to advocate for change and improvement in policies, programs and initiatives that empower widows in their standard lives.
Speaking on behalf of MWAK Chairperson, Mrs Tarus underscored the importance of presenting a united front when championing for these policies that address equality, independence, and economic awareness for military widows.
“Our celebration comes a day after the official date set aside by the United Nation to address some of the unique challenges widows face and exchange ideas of how to improve our lives both socially and economically. We acknowledge the weight you bear and we salute your resilience. Be assured
that MWAK will support you as we walk far together with you and your families.”
With the theme emphasizing on strengthening land and property rights, the KEDWO Deputy National Co-ordinator, Frida Mwaniki, pointed out that women have been taken advantage of for the longest time. This, she said, can only change when they understand their rights and fundamental freedom according to Article 27 (1) stating that women and men have the right to equal treatment, including the right to equal opportunities in political, economic, cultural and social spheres.
In this light, Mrs. Mwaniki, urged women to seek more knowledge regarding land ownership and to be more assertive and alert during the compensation procedures to avoid losing their families’ property.
The widows engaged Colonel Edwin Nyamao, Colonel Compensation and Welfare Department DHQ, in an interactive session where they aired their challenges and seeked guidelines on some procedures regarding compensation. Colonel Nyamao reaffirmed KDF’s commitment to care for the widows and ensure these processes are both quick and seamless.
In Mombasa Region, a panel of discussion led by Ms Linet Otieno focused on the widows’ personal success stories of overcoming adversity and rebuilding their lives. These narratives of resilience served as powerful reminders of the strength inherent in them and provided valuable insights and inspiration for others facing similar challenges.
The Deputy Commander Kenya Navy Base, Mtongwe, Colonel Wilberforce Murimi informed the widows about the role of Kenya Navy welfare office and financial literacy which provided them with knowledge to navigate their lives post bereavement. They were enlightened on the current and future projects aimed at providing continuous support to the members.
This event was commemorated in thirteen regions; that is: Mombasa, Nanyuki, Kitui, Machakos and Makueni, Gilgil, Eldoret, Siaya, Tharaka Nithi, Nakuru,
Nairobi, Mariakani, Busia and Kisumu Counties.
MWAK has recorded a tremendous amount of success through its projects, among them being the fastened pension processes for several widows, High School Scholarships and job opportunities for the KDF orphans.
In attendance were Commandant Ulinzi Complex Colonel Masai, MWAK members, and KDF widows.
