Kilifi County Government has announced the allocation of Sh10 million to facilitate the registration of widows, widowers, and orphans under the Social Health Authority (SHA) programme.

The initiative aims to ensure that vulnerable groups, especially those struggling with poverty and limited access to healthcare, are enrolled so they can receive medical services without financial hardship.

The announcement was made during a Widows’ empowerment programme held at Barani Secondary School grounds, where Governor Gideon Mung’aro emphasised that priority will be given to the most vulnerable individuals.

He noted that many widows in the county are living in difficult conditions and cannot afford healthcare, making SHA registration a critical intervention.

The governor also directed local officials and widows’ leadership to compile accurate data to ensure all eligible beneficiaries are captured and registered.

In addition to healthcare support, the county government pledged to assist widows facing land inheritance disputes by providing legal representation through county lawyers, alongside support from organisations such as FIDA.This is aimed at ensuring justice is accessible and free of exploitation, with only standard court fees applicable.Senator Stewart Madzayo also contributed Sh300,000 and promised continued legal and social support for widows.

Widows’ representative Elizabeth Muthoka, popularly known as Mama Dadu, highlighted the severe challenges faced by widows in Kilifi and called for stronger protection of their rights.Malindi MP Amina Mnyazi further urged widows to register so that the county can maintain proper data for targeted support and empowerment programmes.