Mothers key to sustainable development, says Dr Joyce Kithure

“Women, especially mothers, remain at the heart of Kenya’s sustainable development agenda,” Second Lady of Kenya Dr. Joyce Kithure has said.

Speaking during a Mother’s Day celebration at the Official Residence in Karen, Nairobi, attended by more than 1,000 mothers, Dr Kithure said empowering women is critical to building stronger communities, improving livelihoods and securing the country’s future.

“As we continue championing science, environmental conservation, clean water, food security, climate action and community empowerment, we recognise that women, especially mothers, remain at the centre of sustainable development,” she said.

The Second Lady said the celebration was not only about appreciating mothers, but also recognising the need to create opportunities and support systems that allow women to thrive socially and economically.

“At the SaVE Communities Initiative, we believe that empowering women and mothers is key to transforming communities. When we empower a mother, we uplift a family. When we educate a woman, we strengthen a generation,” she stated.

Dr Kithure noted that mothers remain key pillars in raising responsible citizens and nurturing societal values.

“A mother is often the first teacher, the first caregiver, the first counsellor and the first source of love a child experiences,” she said.

She observed that many successful people owe their achievements to the sacrifices and dedication of mothers who worked quietly behind the scenes.

“Behind many successful families, responsible citizens, and great leaders, there is usually a mother who sacrificed quietly, prayed faithfully and worked tirelessly,” she added.

Dr Kithure also highlighted the growing pressures facing mothers in modern society, saying economic hardship and emotional stress continue to weigh heavily on many women.

“Many mothers continue to face economic challenges, health struggles, emotional stress and the responsibility of raising children in a rapidly changing world,” she noted.

She called on leaders, institutions and communities to invest more in programmes that uplift women and strengthen family structures.

The Second Lady thanked mothers for their unwavering commitment to their families, saying their contribution often goes unnoticed despite being essential to social stability.

“Thank you for waking up early and sleeping late so that your children may have a better future. Thank you for nurturing values of honesty, discipline, kindness and hard work,” she said.

Dr Kithure further urged young people to show appreciation to their mothers through responsible behaviour and integrity.

“Celebrate them not only with gifts and words today, but through your character, your discipline, your hard work and your compassion every day,” she said.

She encouraged mothers facing exhaustion and discouragement to remember that their efforts have long-term impact on society.

“To the mothers who may feel tired, discouraged or unappreciated, please remember this: your work matters. Your love matters. Your sacrifice matters,” she said.

The Mother’s Day event concluded with a message of unity, hope and appreciation for mothers across the country and around the world.