By Betty Luke
Construction of a cultural center dedicated to women’s economic empowerment has kicked off in Isiolo, offering a ray of hope to the local community.
The project, funded by Indigenous Movement for Peace Advancement and Conflict Transformation (IMPACT) and being implemented by Ever Ready Grassroots Network will provide a platform for women from diverse communities in Burat ward to showcase their cultural wealth and also serve as an indigenous knowledge hub.
The center will have among others a social hall, training rooms, traditional huts for different communities as well as exhibition spaces where women can showcase and sell their cultural products.
The initiative that kicked of early this year with just a structural design is now already past its first major phase- the connection of water for construction and other activities that will be conducted before and even after the construction.
“We began by connecting water to the site to ensure activities move swiftly. We appreciate the generosity of the local community who agreed to allow us connect water from the community’s borehole in the village,” noted Ever Ready Grassroot Network Chairperson Habiba Sheikh.
With the foundation excavation and the building of a water tank already complete, the project is swiftly gaining momentum.
Casual labourers, mostly women from the surrounding areas, are actively engaged in the work. For many, this project is already changing lives before its doors even open.
“This center is not just about buildings. It’s about giving our women a place to gather, learn, and grow economically,” added Ms Sheikh
She described the water connection as a game-changer. “Having water on-site has made everything easier. From mixing cement to promotion of hygiene and sanitation, it’s a big relief.”
The project is a collaborative effort, with the committee holding regular meetings to update each other and plan ahead.
Habiba emphasized the importance of community involvement. “We want women to own the centre. That’s why they are part of every step—from planning to digging,” she said.
The social hall, which will be the heart of the center, will provide space for meetings, cultural activities, and economic training.
“This is just the beginning,” she said “We’re not just building walls but a future for women in Isiolo.”
As construction continues, the excitement on the ground is growing. The women are not just witnessing change but building it with their own hands.
Ever Ready network is made up of over 700 members drawn from 27 women groups from across different communities in Burat ward.
Isiolo Gender Watch (IGW), a local organization that champions for women rights, initiated the formation of the network nearly two years ago and subsequently connected them to donors in bid to address rising cases of Gender Based Violence (GBV) against women.
IGW Executive Director Grace Lolim blamed high poverty level to the violence that she said would be addressed by economically empowering women.
“Economic empowerment is the only sure way to address violence against women. If a woman is able to earn a living then it is likely that there will be peace at home,” shared Ms Lolim.
