First Lady Eng Esther Ruto addressing women empowerment workshop.

Bomet County First Lady Mrs Esther Ruto has urged women in the county to embrace modern farming techniques and adopt new marketing methods to better their lives. Speaking during a women empowerment workshop at Sotik town over the weekend, Mrs Ruto said this will cushion women from the economic burdens they face in their families. “Women bear the most responsibility in meeting basic needs in the family yet they lack the finances to run those affairs.” She added. Mrs Ruto called on women to utilize their farms to plant short season crops which will earn them money within a short period. “We as women have untapped opportunity in agriculture. As long as you have some funds for seeds and fertilizer to start a vegetable garden, you earn some money at the end of the day.” She advised. She also urged women to utilize ward multi-purpose groups to access cheap loans for businesses and to seek the advice of agricultural extension officers for better crop and animal husbandry. The First Lady lamented that the majority of women are not involved in decision-making both in leadership, business and in the management of family resources. This, she averred ,ought to be reversed as soon as possible.