Esther Achieng’ Akulo, now 29, experienced a tragic loss at the age of 22 when her husband passed away in an accident. This event left her with four children and no support system to rely on. As the primary breadwinner, her husband had been crucial to the family’s survival, and his death plunged Esther into a life of hardship.
For years, she struggled to provide for her children while living in a dilapidated mud house. The structure was in poor condition, with rusted iron sheets that symbolized the poverty she endured. Her situation seemed hopeless until she found support through a widows’ group called Kobodo Widows. This organization provided her with some relief and helped her sustain her family.
Through the Women Empowerment Program (WEP), Esther gained access to new opportunities that allowed her to rebuild her life. Her story caught the attention of Principal Secretary (PS) Raymond Omollo, who is known for his work with widows in Homa Bay County. He decided to take action and help Esther by building her a new home.
The gift was more than just a house—it included furniture, comfortable seating, and essential household items. Esther was overwhelmed with gratitude as she moved into her new home, which was built next to her old one. The new property featured a spacious compound, a farm behind it, and modern design elements that made it stand out in the neighborhood.
Esther and her children were overjoyed, looking forward to a brighter future after years of struggle. The new house marked the beginning of a significant change in their lives. PS Raymond Omollo has a history of supporting widows, and this was not his first act of kindness. In another instance, he helped Susan Akinyi Okoth, an elderly woman from Lang’o Orawo Village, who had also lost her husband and faced numerous challenges.
Susan, a mother of four school-going children, had been living in a poor house and dealing with health issues, including high blood pressure. Her husband had been the family’s sole breadwinner, and his death left her in a difficult position. When PS Omollo gifted her a new house, she was deeply moved and grateful for the support.
Both Esther and Susan are examples of how community efforts and individual acts of kindness can transform lives. Their stories highlight the importance of support systems for widows and the impact that such initiatives can have on families facing adversity.
