Mombasa: The Shosaha Foundation has launched a community water supply program to support vulnerable women in Mombasa’s Mikindani area, as part of its ongoing efforts to empower widows, single mothers, and other disadvantaged groups across six sub-counties.

According to Kenya News Agency, the Foundation’s founder, Wickine Obongo, stated that the initiative was born out of the need to address the long-standing water crisis in the area. ‘Many women here struggle daily due to water scarcity. I felt the urgency to act,’ she said.

With support from Mombasa Senator Mohamed Faki, the foundation received several water tanks and a donation of 15,000 litres of clean water. According to Obongo, 5,000 litres were set aside for widows, another 5,000 for single mothers, and the remainder for general community use.

The water initiative is expected to ease the burden on women who have previously been forced to walk long distances to access water. The program also aims to introduce affordable water-selling ventures for the beneficiaries to improve their livelihoods.

Bahija Mwinyifaki, a representative from the senator’s office who presided over the launch, confirmed that the initiative was a response to a proposal submitted by the Mikindani Widows Community-Based Organization (CBO). ‘This is part of the senator’s broader support under the Asanteni Wana Mombasa initiative,’ Mwinyifaki explained. He noted that through the program, women in Jomvu Sub-County have already received more than 30 water tanks, 2,000 chairs, large cooking pots, and tables to help them engage in income-generating activities.

Mwinyifaki urged the beneficiaries to work hard and support each other, emphasizing the importance of sustainability. ‘If these women can thrive with a little help, they can in turn uplift others,’ he said.

Mary Ouko, a single mother and one of the program’s beneficiaries, acknowledged the challenges the Foundation had faced since its inception six years ago. She expressed gratitude for the support and highlighted the significant impact the water project would have on the lives of women in Mikindani. ‘We’ve been struggling with water shortages for years. This support is not just helpful-it’s transformative,’ she stated. Ouko also called for single mothers to be given their own designated water tanks, similar to those provided for widows.

Sofia Ingasha, a widow and program participant, praised the Foundation’s efforts, saying that access to water had restored hope and dignity to many women. ‘We used to walk for miles just to fetch water. Now, we can focus on our daily responsibilities and even start small businesses,’ she reported.

The Foundation also operates in Kilifi, Kisumu, and Kwale counties, focusing on supporting marginalized women. Obongo concluded by urging more collaboration from the public and stakeholders to support women who continue to face socio-economic and psychological challenges.