The First Lady, Mama Rachel Ruto, marked International Women’s Day in Kisumu with a significant event focused on empowerment and inclusivity. She graced the groundbreaking ceremony for the Chandaria Kisumu Women’s Prison Workshop, a collaborative effort between the Chandaria Foundation and Mabati Rolling Mills aimed at imparting income-generating skills to female inmates.

During the ceremony, Mama Rachel Ruto emphasized the pivotal role of inclusivity and empowerment in driving societal progress. She urged all Kenyans to invest in women’s potential and well-being, recognising that their empowerment serves as a catalyst for advancement in all aspects of life.

The First Lady stressed that when a woman is empowered, she not only transforms her family but also uplifts her community.

Addressing the attendees, Mama Rachel Ruto encouraged those responsible for the women inmates to support and motivate them to acquire income-generating skills. The upcoming workshop will provide opportunities for inmates to learn such skills, contributing to their rehabilitation and eventual reintegration into society.

Highlighting ongoing initiatives, Mama Rachel Ruto mentioned the successful cross-stitch training program implemented by her office in five women’s prisons across Kenya, including Langata, Nakuru, Shimo la Tewa, Kakamega, and Kitale Women’s Prisons. This program has benefited 1,200 women directly, positively impacting over 7,000 lives indirectly. Notably, participants have earned over 25 million Kenyan shillings through the creation of cross-stitch pieces. The program will now be introduced to Kisumu Women’s Prison, expanding its reach and impact.

The celebration of International Women’s Day in Kisumu not only highlighted the importance of empowering women but also demonstrated tangible efforts to provide opportunities for rehabilitation and skill development among female inmates, ultimately fostering their successful reintegration into society.