Siaya Makes History as County Assembly Passes Landmark Widows’ Protection Bill

A wave of relief and celebration is sweeping across Siaya County after the long-awaited passage of the Widows’ Protection Bill 2025  a landmark law aimed at safeguarding the rights, dignity, and economic wellbeing of widows

Passed by the County Assembly on November 12, 2025, the Bill comes after more than thirteen years of advocacy. It addresses critical issues such as inheritance rights, economic empowerment, and the prevention of abuse and discrimination

The Bill was sponsored by Masidis Scholastica Madowo, MCA for South East Alego Ward and Chairperson of the Siaya County Assembly Women Caucus. Madowo expressed deep pride in the achievement, saying they now await the Governor’s assent for it to officially become law

The legislation outlaws harmful cultural practices, establishes ward welfare committees, creates a Directorate of Widows, protects inheritance rights, and sets up an empowerment fund

According to Madowo, the Bill received overwhelming support from widows who have long endured serious violations of their rights

National leaders have applauded the milestone. Carren Ageng’o, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Children’s Services, commended Siaya for championing women’s welfare through legal reforms that empower widows to contribute to national development

At the grassroots, the Bill has been hailed as a God-sent solution. Thomas Agutu, Director of Nyogaya Foundation, emphasized that the new protections will ease the suffering of widows and their children, who often face deep vulnerability and disinheritance

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Support has also come from beyond Siaya. Lillian Ngala of the Homabay-based Lillian Ngala Foundation praised the Bill as a model that other counties should emulate, especially for widows unable to afford legal representation or facing hostile relatives

Zacky Masiro noted the economic impact the Bill could unlock for widows in a region where NGO support has been limited. He urged accountability in managing the empowerment funds that will follow its implementation

Personal testimonies from widows highlighted the painful experiences that made the Bill necessary. Phoebe Atieno recalled being forced into retrogressive rites, including wearing her late husband’s inner clothing

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Rosemary Owino shared how she lived in a dilapidated home and endured oppressive mourning rituals that worsened her grief

Charles Osako of the Raymond Omollo Widows Empowerment Program urged Siaya to work with the Senate to elevate the Bill to national prominence, noting that widows across the country face similar challenges

The Bill’s passage marks a monumental step away from oppressive traditions and toward a more just society. For many widows and orphans, it symbolizes a long-awaited voice, renewed dignity, and a promise of a safer and more equitable future