Bishop Rose Okeno of the ACK Diocese of Butere has urged Christians to advocate for the rights of widows and to create safe spaces where they can share their experiences, engage in fellowship, and pray together.
During the Diocesan’s fourth annual International Widows Day service at ACK St. Luke’s Cathedral on Monday, Bishop Okeno highlighted the cultural constraints that often imprison widows, leaving many in extreme poverty. She expressed concern that the lives of widows and their children have deteriorated beyond mere poverty and neglect.
The bishop emphasized the significance of the 51 widows’ groups within the parishes, which convene monthly for fellowship meetings focused on prayer and the sharing of experiences. She noted that the diocese is dedicated to fostering economic empowerment through these groups, particularly in the areas of poultry farming and agriculture.
“We are committed to exploring ways on how to economically empower widows’ groups in all our parishes,” the bishop explained. “These groups will not only provide spiritual nourishment but also engage in economic empowerment activities, such as poultry farming and other agricultural initiatives.” She said.
Additionally, she commended the ACK Diocese of Butere for its research initiative titled “Unboxing the Law in Butere,” which aims to address the challenges faced by widows. This important study is set to be launched on August 15, 2025.
“We conducted research titled ‘Unboxing the Law in Butere,’ which has illuminated the harsh realities faced by widows,” she noted. Through these initiatives, the diocese aims to foster a supportive community that empowers widows and advocates for their rights.
The fourth diocesan bishop also condemned police brutality, which has tragically resulted in many young women becoming widows. She referenced the case of Albert Ojwang, who was brutally murdered by police, highlighting the urgent need for reform. “As a mother and widow, I stand in solidarity with all those who have lost their husbands at the hands of the police, including during the GenZ demonstrations last year,” she stated.
In her address, she called upon the government to take immediate action to halt the abduction and killing of its citizens. Furthermore, the Rt. Rev. Rose Okeno revisited the government’s mishandling of the Butere Girls’ drama club students during the national festivals in Nakuru earlier this year, where they were denied the opportunity to showcase their play and were subjected to tear gas.
These sentiments were echoed by Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa, who called for the resignation of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, following his alleged connection to the death of the slain teacher. “There should be no sacred cows within the police force; everyone must be held accountable, including those who have been implicated,” stated the governor.
The service brought together over one thousand two hundred widows from the ACK Diocese of Butere and other invited denominations. The guest speaker, Pastor Benjaline Akenga, encouraged the congregation to place their trust in God and remain faithful to Him. Drawing inspiration from Exodus chapter three, she emphasized that God hears, sees and concerned about His people. He keeps his promises…” he says he is the father of the fatherless” and will always fulfil is the desires of widows.
This widows’ celebration service marked the fourth consecutive event of its kind in the diocese since its inception, highlighting the ongoing commitment to support and uplift those affected by loss.