NYERI: Nyeri County Government celebrated International Men's Day with widowers, focusing on the 2024 theme, 'Positive Male Role Models.' Speaking during the ceremony, Gender CECM Esther Ndung'u, who led the celebrations at Whispers Ground in Nyeri town, emphasized that this event represents a transformative opportunity for men to come together, share experiences, and gain the knowledge and skills needed to lead healthier lives.According to Kenya News Agency, the International Men's Day event is a comprehensive initiative designed to empower men by addressing critical social, economic, and mental health challenges they face. The event, organized in collaboration with the Move-on Widowers Initiative, brought together widowers from the eight Sub-Counties. It aims to foster a supportive environment for open discussions, sensitization, and skill-building, empowering individuals to navigate life's dynamics.Participants were equipped with a greater understanding of not only the challenges they face but also wit h a renewed sense of purpose and practical skills for personal, family, and social growth, which will foster positive change in their lives. "Through the empowerment of men and the promotion of positive societal change, the event also serves as a step toward creating a more balanced and inclusive society," noted Ndung'u.The MOVE-ON Widowers initiative addresses grief, male role modeling, SGBV advocacy, social integration, family values, economic empowerment, prevention of alcohol and drugs, business management skills, financial planning, and support social groups. During the event, widowers were given a chance to express themselves, narrating how they face challenges, especially when they get sick since there is no one to take care of them.Francis Wanyiri, a widower from Mathari, Nyeri, shared that when he gets ill, he panics because no one is there to take care of him. Different individuals expressed difficulty in their daily life due to illness as they are unable to cook for themselves. Mwangi, however, thanked the department for the support, insightful and thoughtful presentations, and concern for the welfare of widowers.