Duale raises Sh24M to support women’s groups in Ijara

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has presided over a Sh24 million resource mobilisation drive to support women’s groups under the Ijara Women Development Programme in Masalani Town, Garissa County.

The fundraiser marked the conclusion of his health development tour of Garissa County and was hosted by nominated MP Ummulkheir Harun and Ijara MP Abdi Ali Shekhow.

The event brought together women’s groups from across Garissa County, with a focus on empowering women in Ijara through economic opportunities and community development initiatives.

Duale commended the programme, saying economically empowered women were better positioned to make independent decisions and contribute meaningfully to their families and communities.

He called on political leaders and the private sector to sustain their support for initiatives that promote women’s economic empowerment.

The CS also condemned the heckling of Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka during the Linda Mwananchi programme, describing it as disrespectful to a statesman and elder.

He said political differences should never be used to justify public humiliation or disrespect.

During the visit, Duale also toured Masalani Sub-County Referral Hospital, where he pledged to upgrade the facility from Level Three to Level Five.

He promised to supply additional medicines to strengthen service delivery and provide 20 modern hospital beds. He also pledged to construct a new maternity wing to improve maternal healthcare and reduce child mortality.

Nominated MP Ummulkheir Harun welcomed the CS’s support, saying the initiative would strengthen women’s economic empowerment in Garissa County and beyond.

Duale was accompanied by Kenya Medical Training College Chief Executive Officer Dr Kelly Oluoch and Principal Secretary for Culture Ummi Bashir.

Other leaders present included Garissa Town MP Dekow Barrow, Tarbaj MP Hussein Barre, Nyando MP Jared Okello, former Garissa Governor Ali Korane, former Cabinet Minister Mohamed Elmi and former Ijara MP Ahmed Abass, among other leaders.

Members of the Garissa County Assembly, religious leaders, women’s representatives and business leaders also attended.

By Mohamed Dahir