Economic disempowerment is one of the most pressing challenges faced by widows in Kenya today. After the death of a spouse, many women are left with no source of income, no marketable skills, and limited access to job opportunities. For most, the struggle to feed their families and provide basic needs becomes an everyday reality.
Recognizing this critical gap, Smartified Widows Organization established the Tailoring and Skills Training Program — a creative, empowering initiative aimed at restoring self-reliance through hands-on learning.
This program provides widows with practical vocational training in tailoring, beadwork, knitting, embroidery, and other craft-based skills. Delivered by experienced trainers in a supportive environment, the courses are designed not just to teach skills but to equip participants for business. Modules include financial literacy, pricing, customer service, marketing, and basic bookkeeping.
The training is free, and materials are provided. Most importantly, the sessions are structured to accommodate widows’ responsibilities, such as childcare and domestic work, with flexible hours and supportive peer networks.
The impact is inspiring. Hundreds of widows have completed the program and gone on to start small businesses in their communities. One such success story is Peninah, a mother of four from Busia County. After the loss of her husband, Peninah struggled to make ends meet. Enrolling in the tailoring program changed her life. Today, she runs a thriving tailoring shop, makes school uniforms for nearby schools, and employs two other women. Her income has doubled, and she now supports her family with pride and dignity.
Graduates of the program are linked with markets, cooperatives, and women’s groups for ongoing support. Smartified helps connect them with opportunities to showcase their products at community fairs and women’s trade expos.
Moreover, the program has a psychological benefit. Widows report increased self-esteem, confidence, and community respect. Many who once felt forgotten or ashamed now walk with purpose and dignity, knowing they have something valuable to contribute.
Challenges include limited access to capital for startup businesses and the need for more equipment. In response, Smartified is launching a Micro-Grants Fund to provide seed capital to top graduates. The organization also plans to establish Widows Business Hubs in key counties — fully equipped centers where trained widows can produce, store, and sell their goods.
Looking ahead, the program aims to diversify into baking, soap-making, and digital skills to accommodate more women with varying interests.
Through every stitch, bead, and thread, Smartified is changing lives. The Tailoring and Skills Training Program transforms grief into growth, and dependency into self-sufficiency.
Because when a widow gains a skill, she also gains freedom — and with freedom comes the power to dream again.
