Political leaders have been called upon to stop using women and youth empowerment programmes for political mileage as distribution of KSh21.8 million to grassroots women’s groups began this week.

Tabitha Ogutu, CEO of the Siaya Community Digital Hub, made the appeal while launching the disbursement in Siaya Township Ward. Ogutu said empowerment must translate into practical support that improves livelihoods rather than becoming a political slogan.

“We want to ensure that women’s empowerment is not just a phrase politicians repeat until it becomes a cliché,” she said. “Empowerment should be tangible, felt and reflected in the lives of our women.”

Ogutu criticized the practice of convening women to collect handouts tied to political events, saying genuine empowerment focuses on long-term economic transformation. She said the funds, raised during a recent women’s empowerment fundraiser backed by Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga, will be channelled directly to beneficiaries to support business growth and financial independence.

The KSh 21.8 million will be shared among 328 women’s groups across the county. The disbursement began in Siaya Township and will move to Ugunja and Ugenya, with organisers aiming to complete distribution by the end of next week.

Siaya Township MCA James Otare applauded the initiative and urged that Siaya not be left out of national development efforts. “When positive things happen in other counties, we must replicate them here,” he said, adding that future rounds should include youth-focused support.

Rosemary Akoth Wango, chairperson of the Siaya Township Ward Widows, said the funds will help sustain families and keep children in school. “When a mother has money, the family is fed and children attend school,” she said.

The organisers thanked the Orange Democratic Movement leadership and local officials for their support.