Narok County marked this year’s International Women’s Day with a resounding call for economic empowerment to transform the lives of women and girls.
The celebration, held at Ole-Ntimama Stadium, brought together hundreds of women, leaders, and stakeholders who underscored the crucial role of financial independence, leadership, and skills development in uplifting communities.
Women’s Empowerment at the Forefront
During the event, Agnes Ntutu, the wife of Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu, emphasized the importance of women’s inclusion in leadership and decision-making processes.
She urged women to assert their voices in society, recognizing that their participation ensures holistic representation for the entire community.
“I have urged women to have a voice in society because when we are included, the entire community is represented. We must take up leadership positions, educate ourselves, and support each other.” Ntutu emphasized.
“I have organized meetings to teach women about leadership, personal hygiene, and the importance of maintaining our surroundings. Our environment reflects who we are,” she stated.
She further encouraged women to join Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs), highlighting their role in breaking the cycle of poverty.
“By saving money, accessing loans, and investing in their own businesses through SACCOs, women can strengthen their economic status and create sustainable livelihoods,” she explained.
To support this vision, Agnes Ntutu presented certificates to cooperative societies under the Ushanga Initiative, recognizing their contributions to economic empowerment through beadwork and cooperative savings.
Ushanga Initiative: Transforming Women’s Livelihoods
A key highlight of the celebration was the impact of the Ushanga Initiative, a program dedicated to empowering pastoralist women by commercializing traditional beadwork.
The initiative aims to create jobs, improve living standards, and ensure the sustainability of indigenous craftsmanship.
Rebecca Senoi, Director of the Ushanga Initiative, emphasized the program’s role in transforming women’s economic prospects.
“We have trained women and acted as a bridge to market access. We also supply them with the necessary materials to create beads, empowering them economically. Most importantly, this initiative is teaching them to see beadwork as a viable source of livelihood,” Senoi stated.
She noted that the initiative has spurred the formation of 21 cooperative societies in Narok County, fostering unity and collective financial growth among women.
“These cooperatives have boosted economic prospects through activities such as table banking, allowing women to pool resources, access credit, and invest in income-generating activities,” she added.
Strengthening Economic and Cultural Heritage
Beyond financial empowerment, the Ushanga Initiative also seeks to protect the intellectual property of communities practicing beadwork, ensuring that cultural heritage is preserved while maximizing economic benefits.
The initiative enhances the competitiveness of bead products in local, regional, and international markets by establishing direct connections with buyers and monitoring for any illegal activities.
By promoting cooperative societies and entrepreneurship, the initiative has become a cornerstone for sustainable development among women in Narok County.
A Call to Action
The International Women’s Day celebration in Narok served as a powerful reminder that women’s economic empowerment is key to community transformation.
Stakeholders at the event called for continued investment in women’s education, leadership, and financial literacy to drive long-term progress.
As the county moves forward, the message remains clear—empowered women build empowered communities.
By strengthening financial independence, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting leadership, Narok County is setting the stage for a brighter and more inclusive future.
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