By Nelson Musngu, Bungoma
First Lady Rachel Ruto has called on children across the country to take greater responsibility for the care of their aging parents, describing it as a moral duty and an essential reflection of family values.
She made the remarks during the burial of Leonidah Nanjala Waswa, the mother of her staff member Librata Muhati, in Ranje Village, Kanduyi Constituency in Bungoma County.
Mrs Ruto used the occasion to highlight the importance of honouring and supporting elderly parents, saying their sacrifices should not be forgotten. “As we grow older, let us never forget the sacrifices our parents made. It is our turn to support them and ensure they age with dignity,” she said.
She paid tribute to the late Mama Leonidah, describing her as a respected community leader and a committed advocate for women’s empowerment.
The First Lady recalled how Mama Leonidah chaired a women’s table banking group they co-founded in 2010, alongside her daughter Librata, to promote financial inclusion and economic independence among women.
“She was a visionary, a woman of strength, and a voice for many. She inspired women to believe in themselves, save, and start their own businesses. Her legacy in women’s economic empowerment will live on,” Mrs Ruto said.
The First Lady also acknowledged the role of the Church in shaping moral values and building stronger families. “The Church in Kenya plays a key role in mentoring the next generation. We are thankful for its ongoing efforts in building strong families and communities,” she added.
Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka, who also attended the funeral, used the platform to urge the national government to fulfil its development pledges to the region. “We ask His Excellency the President to fulfil the commitments he made to the people of Bungoma. We are still waiting for important infrastructure projects that we were promised,” he said.
