Fighting Gender Based Violence Through Economic Empowerment
By Rtn. PP Betty Wariari
In Rotary, the month of October reminded us to embrace women’s economic empowerment with the goal of transforming households, communities and nations. In the spirit of service above self, The Rotary Club of Nairobi Kilimani Alfajiri (RCNKA) believes in providing service to others, promoting integrity and advancing goodwill. As such, the club partnered with Mirror of Hope CBO in Kibra to empower 150 women during a session graced by Madam Kanze Dena Mararo, the Statehouse Spokesperson & Communication Secretary.
Upendo community group members with Madam Kanze Dena (holding a baby of one of the mothers in the group), Rotarians and friends.
For many years, the Mirror of Hope CBO has embarked on empowering women through sustainable economic initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods. For effective support, the CBO divided the women into seven groups that meet regularly to contribute and save money, loan each other, share business ideas and areas of collaboration. During the women’s economic empowerment session held on October 30th 2021, Madam Kanze Dena passionately highlighted the importance of self-worth and the need for women to support each other in their businesses and other aspects of life.
Madam Kanze’s testimonial gave the women a sense of hope and resolution to address different forms of gender-based violence they were facing or could potentially face. As such, it was humbling when one of the women openly declared that “hata mimi nimejiskia nina haki ya kuishi” – a feeling that resonated with many after listening to Madam Kanze. More so, the room was full of palpable determination to address gender-based violence in promoting self-reliance and inclusive economic growth.
However, several challenges affecting the success of women in business were highlighted. Notably, the women get marginal returns from their small businesses, which unfortunately makes it difficult for them to meet pressing demands at home. Secondly, the need to support women in marketing their products while helping them to come up with innovative ways of designing and branding their work was noted. Thirdly, difficulty in accessing enough operational capital was cited as a key concern. Additionally, the lack of psychosocial support and access to justice in addressing gender-based violence was emphasized.
Of note, the Rotary club of Nairobi Kilimani Alfajiri found the session very eye-opening & a major stepping stone in supporting key initiatives addressing barriers to women empowerment. In remaining true to Rotary’s commitment in growing local economies, the empowerment of women is essential, it is a priority. The club is therefore thankful for the collaboration with Mirror of Hope founder Rtn. Thomas Nyawir, who’s support made the event a success. Additionally, the support by District 9212 Programs Chair, Service Chair and the Assistant Governor was much appreciated. Heartfelt gratitude to all RCNKA Rotarians led by President Evans Ikua, visiting Rotarians and friends. The great engagement with community leaders such as Sarang’ombe’s area chief and human rights defender, among others, made the session very enlightening.
Most importantly, the club is extremely grateful to Madam Kanze Dena Mararo, who graciously responded to the invitation by RCNKA Service Committee Chair, PP Betty Wariari. Her proficiency to capture the crowd, speak deeply into the hearts of women and inspire a strong sense of self-worth was unequalled. As Michelle Obama ably said, “no country can ever truly flourish if it stifles the potential of its women and deprives itself of the contributions of half of its citizens.” A hunger for women’s economic empowerment is indispensable.
Rtn. PP Betty Wariari is the Service Project Chair of the Rotary Club of Nairobi Kilimani Alfajiri.
