Mrs. Dorcas Rigathi, (wife to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua) has reiterated the government’s zero tolerance to illicit brewing and sale of second-generation brews. Mrs. Rigathi who was addressing widows in Loitoktok town called upon other key players to come on board for advocacy on zero tolerance to illicit brews which she said has caused poverty among many people, especially youths who would otherwise be involved in profitable economic activities. She expressed her concern that over 1 million youths are currently abusing drugs adding that these include children of widows. On challenges affecting widows, she cited wife inheritance and ostracism in some communities, after losing husbands as some of the painful experiences some widows undergo, which all relevant authorities should address. She called upon the Senate and National Assembly to fast track a bill addressing the plight of widows who lose their inheritance through in-laws, to ensure their properties are protected. Terming this as discrimination against women and gender based violence, Mrs. Rigathi called upon establishment of a desk at police stations for redress of the plight of widows. Kajiado County Commissioner Felix Watakila who was also present warned chiefs and their assistants against entertaining those discriminating widows by taking and selling their rightful inheritance. Watakila said the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) are tasked to defend and protect the rights and interest of widows in their areas of jurisdiction. The event was organized and hosted by the Osiligi women group comprising six sub groups of widows drawn across the Loitoktok Sub County. In the event Mrs. Rigathi, who is also a pastor, gave Sh. 600, 000 to the group to support their activities. Others who graced the event included Edna Lenku, spouse to Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku, Kajiado South Constituency Member of Parliament, Parashina Sakimba among other county leaders.
Source: Kenya News Agency