About this program
Teen pregnancy skyrocketed during the pandemic in rural Kenya. Girls as young as 14 became pregnant which typically results in the girls not returning to school and the cycle of extreme maternal poverty continuing. School closures, loss of jobs for parents, and the lack of rain has exacerbated the situation. The lack of sex education, measures to hold perpetrators accountable, parents overwhelmed by gathering water and providing food for the family, and a sense of hopelessness are all contributing factors. Boys are at a loss as they witness confusing and violent behaviors that devalue their mothers, aunts, and sisters. As a result, Kenya Connect is spearheading an effort to break the cycle of teen pregnancy through a comprehensive approach. Working closely with stakeholders including child protection officers, public health officials, pastors, parents, teachers, police, media representatives and village leaders, a multi-pronged plan has been developed and deployed. At the heart of the plan is an empowerment program for girls and boys through a weekly afterschool enrichment program which includes accurate sexual reproduction information on consent, respect, boundaries, peer pressure, life and career planning, and mentorship. Kenya Connect was recognized as a Global Innovation for the Girl/Boy Empowerment program by HundrEd.org.
“Girl/Boy empowerment has helped me to understand that I have a unique and special body. I have learned people should respect my body boundaries and I should respect other people’s body boundaries too. Also, I have learned that I should not follow my friend’s decisions. I should also make my own decision.”
Ian, Nyaani PS
“In grades 5 and 6, we teachers have observed a remarkable increase in confidence for boys and girls compared to other grades. They have developed a sense of teamwork, they can actively help each other in class discussions and confidently approach teachers with questions. I had the privilege of attending all the sessions of the Girl/Boy Empowerment Program and I have gained new strategies for teaching from the experience.”
Teacher Syongwa – Mbaikini PS
Statistics
72%
of students reported feeling confident or very confident after finishing the Girl/Boy Empowerment program which is an improvement from from 60%
Students who believed it was okay to have unwanted touch went from 28% to 18% in a post-test survey.
600
students have participated in the Girl/Boy Empowerment Program
Want to support this program?
The best way to help is by donating, fundraising, volunteering, or simply sharing the news of what we’re doing.