In the past, women were treated as part of a man’s wealth, and this was seemingly acceptable to society. However, things have changed, with women up to the task to compete with men in all aspects to earn a living for their families.
Alice Kilisu is one such woman in society.
KILISU, THE MOTHER
She is a 49-year-old woman dwelling in Mteremko village, Bungoma County. She broke up with her husband 15 years ago due to what she termed as infidelity. The mother of three resorted to living a single life as she could no longer put up with the infidelious man.
“At the beginning, it was very challenging but as at now I have coped with the situation and all is well, ” she says.
She narrowly survived the harsh nature of life back then and she thanks God for pushing her on to triumph. The irresponsible man ran away, leaving her as the sole breadwinner of the family. When driven to the corner to explain whether she made any effort to put back her family to shape, she declares that no woman would ever fight for a man who left her for another man.
“If a relationship is not working, no need to force it.’’
She puts on a sad face as she affirms the statement, “Unamuacha tu aende.” (you let him go).
ADVICE TO MEN
She spared a moment to give an advice to men, insisting that men should stick to their wives. The issue of grass being greener on the other side she says is a waste of time since every family has its up and down.
EDUCATION
Kisilu didn’t study past Standard Seven. She could not go beyond that as her grades were not as good enough as her sisters’ grades. Therefore, she paved way for her sister to continue with her education. She got pregnant by the time her sister cleared school hence she could no longer go to school thereby ending up into marriage. Her children are very much learned with the eldest daughter working.
‘’My advice to parents is to give their children the gift of education which will open up more opportunities for them, ‘’She adds.
KILISU, THE LEADER.
Alice has been serving the people of Mteremko village for 15 years till now. She was appointed the leader by her people when the then elder passed on. By then she used to serve as an assistant.
Having been a victim of family break up, our journalist questioned on whether she is partial in her judgement or she does favour ladies.
“I try as much as possible to remain impartial in all my judgements, without favouring any gender,” The ever smiling village elder reiterated.
Most of the cases she handles range from theft to family breakups, violent partners, and theft.
KILISU, THE BUSINESS LADY
She started selling fast foods since she lives along the highway. She started as a tea seller to contractors who were renovating the nearby road. When they were through, they left her all their belongings with the intention of picking them later.
At the moment Alice makes up to Ksh. 3,000 per day. Her kiosk has grown into a café, serving nearly 300 a day.
She narrates how her life has taken a complete shift since she can support her family members and pay bills and fees at the same time.
“Five years down the line, I dream of owning a restaurant,” the optimistic Kilisu says.
KILISU, THE ADVISOR
She says that as an individual, you ought to know where you have come from, where you are and where you are going.
She urged parents to take their kids to school to stabilize their lives.
She does not stop there, she urges the government to create more platforms for the youths to support themselves.
The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. She summarizes, urging everyone to ponder.