Twenty women members of Taunet Ne Lel Self Help Group in Kipkongorwa Village, Lelmokwo Location were the most notorious illegal brewers in their community.
While they aimed to earn income to be able to feed their families, police could raid their homes at any time to look for illegal alcohol.
At first, some of the members brewed fermented corn brew, but they did not make enough money to support their family’s basic needs. To some members, when their children reached high school, the school fees became overwhelming, so they resorted to brewing a stronger, more deadly brew called changaa, meaning “kill me quick.”
What began as a desperate attempt to provide for their families turned life into a dark prison filled with problems and loneliness. Before long they were drinking the alcohol themselves to cope with the stress of having dozens of customers drunk and fighting in their homes every day. Things were falling apart.
Projects initiated by Taunet Ne Lel Self-Help Group
But now, Taunet Ne Lel members who are reformed brewers are celebrating a whole new life, thanks to the area Assistant Chief Emily Jepkogei Soo who has helped turn around their lives.
These women have registered a self-help group TAUNET NE LEL (A NEW BEGINNING) and are planning to embark on soap making, poultry farming and setting up a tree nursery as sustainable ways to generate income.
This inspiring transformation showcases the power of community support and the resilience of these women as they embrace new opportunities and contribute positively to their community.
On October 14, 2024, Nandi County Executive Committee Member for Health and Sanitation Ruth Koech visited the women’s group in a bid to further support and empower them.
Risks and dangers of alcohol
During the visit, she said there is a need to further collaborate with the county government and Faith-Based Organisations (FBOs) to help in public education and awareness campaigns aimed at sensitising the community and families about the risks and dangers of alcohol and other substances prone to abuse.
The CECM also assured the community that a new contractor will be on-site to complete the new Kipkongorwa Dispensary.
The story of Taunet Ne Lel Women’s Group is a powerful example of how changing the life of a mother can impact an entire family.
Taunet Ne Lel Women Group members have been vital to the transformation in their own village, and also carries a deep desire to see other trapped brewers experience freedom.
