Turkana widows weave income from traditional crafts

In Turkana County, Kenya, widows are using skills in beadwork, basket weaving, mat-making, and soap production to support their families and communities.

Many widows face economic hardship after their husbands’ deaths, losing both a provider and the ability to maintain property rights. Women’s groups such as the Turkana Widows Advancement Programme and Emajale Women’s Group are helping these women rebuild their lives by organizing collective enterprises.

These groups provide not only income but also a platform to defend property rights and recover lost assets. Alung'rat Women’s Group unites 38 groups engaged in various economic activities, all striving to improve household welfare and ensure children have access to education and food. Despite their efforts and the diversity of their products, the women struggle to find consistent markets for their goods.

Pauline Napeyok, chairperson of the Turkana Widows Advancement Programme, and Beatrice Lomuria, representing Alung'rat, both emphasized the need for support from the Turkana government and development partners. They request assistance in connecting women’s groups with buyers and organizing exhibitions to strengthen their businesses and financial independence.