Nyabende (in Luo) is a shrub with small red flowers and edible clusters of seeds, known scientifically as Lantana camara. It is a hardy plant that can survive even during droughts, and it is used for various purposes, including feeding livestock and as a medicinal herb.
In Luo traditional medicine, Nyabende is used to treat various ailments, including malaria, stomachache, and fever.
The name Nyabende was chosen because of the similarity between the women of Nyando and the plant, Nyabende. The women of Nyando are resilient and can survive even during difficult times, just like the Nyabende plant.
The name Nyabende, therefore, represents the strength and resilience of the women of Nyando.The Nyabende Support Programmes initiative aims to empower women in Nyando by providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed.
The initiative focuses on providing training and mentorship to women entrepreneurs, supporting women-led community development projects, and advocating for women's rights.
Click here for projects run by the Nyabende Support Programmes in Rural Kenya.