Women & Youth Empowerment
Investing in Women Is Investing in the Future
Through basket weaving enterprises, vocational training, menstrual health advocacy, and the fight against gender-based violence, the Veronica Maina Foundation champions the dignity and advancement of every woman and girl in Murang'a County.
Women Artisans
Weaving Strength, Crafting Change
Across Murang'a County, thousands of women are stepping into economic independence through creative enterprise. With support from the Veronica Maina Foundation, women's groups such as the Nyakinyua wa Kamaru Group, Kigumo Women Group, and Kandara Basket Weavers are turning traditional skills into sustainable livelihoods.
The Nyakinyua wa Kamaru Group in Kaharati, Muthithi, Kigumo Constituency — a dynamic collective of hundreds of women artisans — has built a flourishing enterprise centred on handwoven baskets, sisal and wool mats, beaded necklaces, bangles, and other intricate handmade items. Their craftsmanship reflects both cultural heritage and the innovative spirit driving grassroots women forward.
To strengthen these efforts, women's groups have been formally registered under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Authority — ensuring greater access to training, funding opportunities, government support, and formal market linkages for long-term sustainability.
The Kigumo Basket Weaving Expo — graced by senior Cabinet Secretaries — provided a national platform for these women to showcase their work and connect with wider markets. The Foundation continues to invest in mentorship, exposure, and targeted support to ensure these women become not just artisans, but entrepreneurs and pillars of progress.
Their Voices
Transformation Stories
In their own words — the women whose lives have been transformed.
Rebecca Nduta
Murang'a County
The foundation provides resources and training to help women enhance their craftsmanship, improve product quality, and access broader markets. By offering financial support, workshops, and networking opportunities, the f…
Ann Nyambura
Muthithi Ward, Kigumo Constituency
Our efforts to find a market for our baskets had been fruitless until Senator Veronica organized the Kigumo Basket Weaving Expo. Her dedication to supporting us was evident. Her caring and proactive approach have made a …
Jennifer Waithira Chege
Kinyona, Kigumo Constituency
We are grateful to our Senator Veronica Maina. She has greatly empowered our group by nurturing our talents and providing financial support. Her commitment has made a substantial difference in our lives, and with continu…
Rose Nyambura
Kahumbu Ward, Murang'a County
This craft has enabled me to support my family and educate my children. We are deeply grateful to Senator Veronica Maina for her support, especially during the Kigumo Women Basket Expo and fundraiser, which featured lead…
Josephine Mongeri
Kigumo Women Basket Weavers
Basket weaving has become a vital source of income for my family, helping to pay for educational fees and putting food on the table. I encourage our youth to join us in basket weaving, as it not only preserves a valuable…
Mary Wambui
Kinyona, Kigumo Constituency
We are deeply grateful to Senator Veronica Maina for her unwavering support and appreciation of our talents. Her advocacy has significantly boosted our morale and visibility. The Kigumo Expo and fundraiser event showcase…
The Girl Child
Advancing Equity, Dignity & Protection
Particular attention has been given to supporting the girl child, especially in vulnerable areas where access to basic needs remains limited. Through partnerships with schools and local networks, hundreds of girls have received donations of sanitary pads, particularly during key awareness moments such as World Menstrual Hygiene Day.
These efforts aim to keep girls in school, reduce absenteeism, and promote open conversations around menstrual health and dignity. No girl should miss an education because of a preventable barrier.
In addition to menstrual health advocacy, there has been growing investment in mentorship programmes, education initiatives, and campaigns to encourage the inclusion of young women in leadership and decision-making spaces.
GBV Campaign
“Komesha Dhuluma” — Stop Gender-Based Violence
On 9th June 2025, Senator Veronica Maina — as Chair of Kenya Women Senators Association (KEWOSA) — hosted the “Komesha Dhuluma” campaign in Kiharu Constituency at ACK Mothers' Union Hall. The campaign brought together local officials, law enforcement, women's groups, and over 900 community members in a shared call to end Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide.
In Kiharu Constituency, physical abuse affects over 50% of women, with 24% having experienced sexual violence. Challenges including psychological abuse, cyberbullying, intimate partner violence, and FGM persist — highlighting the need for coordinated community responses.
The campaign targeted women aged 20 to 50 across the six wards of Kiharu: Gaturi, Township, Mbiri, Mugoiri, Wangu, and Murarandia. Community mobilization involved grassroots outreach, digital campaigns, community banners, and market activations. Chiefs, elders, youth leaders, and faith institutions played key roles in mobilization and dialogue facilitation.
A similar sensitization campaign was held at Nyayo Grounds in Kamahuha Ward, Maragua Constituency, drawing residents and leaders together in commitment to addressing GBV and supporting survivors with dignity and care.
Policy Reforms Called For
Clear criminalization of marital rape
Sanctions for mishandling GBV reports by authorities
End to informal settlements of GBV or femicide cases
Workplace protections for survivors
Inclusion of GBV education in school curricula
Training for health workers on trauma response
Greater regulation of media portrayal of violence
Campaign Impact
900+
Women at Town Hall
6
Wards Mobilized
20–50
Target Age Range
24/7
Support for Survivors
In Pictures
Women of Murang'a
Faith & Community
Uplifting Faith and Community: Supporting Churches Across Murang'a
Spiritual empowerment remains a cornerstone of community growth and transformation. Recognizing the vital role that faith institutions play in shaping values, nurturing unity, and offering hope, Senator Veronica Maina has remained steadfast in her support of churches across Murang'a County.
Through various engagements, Senator Veronica Maina continues to work closely with various denominations to strengthen church infrastructure, support development projects, and respond to the needs of the faithful. From the construction of sanctuaries and administrative blocks to major renovations, these efforts ensure that churches remain safe, dignified, and functional spaces for worship and service.
Churches that have benefited include St. Mark Gitugi, St. Joseph the Worker Mumbi Catholic Church, ACK St. Peter's Kiangage, ACK Diocese of Mt. Kenya Central, among others. Food donations have also been extended to churches as part of the broader mission to care for the vulnerable.
Compassion Ministry
Walking with Communities in Their Hour of Need
Leadership is not only about policies and development — it is about standing with people through life's most difficult moments. Senator Veronica Maina has continued to lead with compassion, walking alongside grieving families, supporting vulnerable communities, and responding to those in need through her ongoing Compassion Ministry.
Whether providing comfort to bereaved families, delivering emergency relief, or championing the welfare of vulnerable groups, these efforts reflect a leadership approach grounded in empathy, action, and genuine service. As families across Murang'a continue to navigate life's challenges, Senator Maina remains steadfast in her commitment to showing up, listening, and supporting her people.
Community Engagement
Grassroots Mobilization & Community Action
Champion Women's Empowerment
When you uplift a woman, you uplift a family and a community. Partner with us to expand access to skills, markets, safety, and dignity for women across Murang'a.
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