This year, Akili Dada marked International Literacy Day in Samburu and Kwale counties, and what we witnessed was both inspiring and urgent.  

Samburu Voices of Change

In Samburu, we celebrated across five villages, reaching over 500 community members. The most powerful moments were not in the numbers but in the pledges of the parents who stood before their neighbours, committing to prioritize education for their daughters. Even more moving were the voices of the beaded girls themselves, who for generations had been denied the chance to go to school. With courage and clarity, they expressed their desire to learn, grow, and transform their futures. One after another, they urged their parents to stand with them and allow them to pursue their education. It was a moment of collective awakening, a reminder that the demand for education is already alive in the hearts of these girls. 

The day concluded with a live conversation on Radio Ashe, where we shared about our Manyatta Homeschooling Program. This community driven model supports out-of-school girls in underserved communities such as Kilifi, Kwale, Samburu, and Turkana, where systemic barriers like FGM, child marriage, poverty, and insecurity continue to impede access to formal education. When we piloted the program in Samburu County over a year ago, many of the girls and young women could not read or write. Today, they not only read, write, and solve math problems but also conduct businesses, and understand the value of money. Beyond the academic transformation, the girls and young women have gained confidence to speak up, question harmful norms, and imagine futures where they can lead. 

Linking Local Action to National Progress in Kwale 

In Kwale County, the celebrations were held under the theme “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era.” The event highlighted Kenya’s progress while acknowledging persistent challenges, with adult literacy in Kwale standing at 57%, compared to the national average of 82.9%. A key highlight was engaging the Principal Secretary for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs Mr. Joseph Motari who led the nation in commemorating the day in Kwale. We shared our plans to expand Manyatta Homeschooling in the County, to close the literacy gap and accelerate progress.   

Reimaging Education 

For Akili Dada, Manyatta Homeschooling is more than a stopgap for out-of-school girls; it is a reimagining of inclusive, community-driven education that advances Kenya’s vision for universal education and aligns with global goals of equity and inclusion. 

This year’s celebrations reaffirmed that literacy is more than just education. It is about possibility and giving girls the tools to write their own stories, to reclaim their voices, and to shape their community’s futures. 

From Samburu to Turkana, from Kwale to Kilifi, we are committed to breaking barriers and reimagining education so that no girl is left behind. 

On this International Literacy Day, we were reminded: when a girl learns to read, she learns to lead. 

Across Africa, young women are leveraging various platforms to raise awareness about the devastating impact of SGBV on individuals and communities. They engage in social media campaigns and grassroots initiatives to amplify their voices and demand action from policymakers, law enforcement, and society.

One of the most potent tools young African women use is storytelling. Through platforms like the Chini Ya Mbuyu podcast, they share their own experiences or those of others, confronting the pervasive culture of silence surrounding SGBV. They encourage survivors to speak out without fear of judgment and break the chains of shame and secrecy, fostering solidarity among survivors and driving conversations that challenge harmful societal norms.

Moreover, young women leaders across East Africa actively engage in advocacy and activism through programs such as the Stawisha Dada Institute, Hamasishsa Dada Institute, and Women Gaining Ground Institute. These advocates lobby for legislative reforms and policy changes to protect survivors better and hold perpetrators accountable. They are at the forefront of efforts to improve access to support services, including counseling, legal aid, and healthcare. They ensure that survivors receive the holistic care they deserve.

Young African women have established community-based organizations to educate their communities on healthy relationships and gender equality, setting the stage for cultural shifts. Through youth-led workshops, awareness campaigns, and school outreach programs, they empower their peers to recognize and confront SGBV in all its forms.

Ultimately, these young African women are not just victims of SGBV; they are transformative agents of change, champions for progress, and beacons of hope in the fight against sexual violence. As we observe Sexual Assault Awareness Month, let us celebrate their courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to creating a safer, more equitable world for all.

By Vivian M. Kwame, Communications Associate- Digital

The issue of sexual violence in Kenya spans across various demographics, affecting individuals regardless of their age, gender, or economic status. Yet, the widespread stigma and the threat of backlash often deter survivors from speaking out. This silence perpetuates a harmful cycle of violence and lack of accountability. Thus, awareness initiatives are vital in challenging these norms and encouraging open conversations.

Education initiatives, for instance, serve as a powerful tool by equipping individuals with knowledge and resources to recognize and prevent sexual assault. Additionally, understanding the intersections of gender, age, disability, and cultural beliefs is essential in addressing the vulnerabilities that can lead to increased risk of sexual violence.

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil societies are invaluable in this fight. They provide vital services such as counseling, legal aid, and advocacy tailored to meet the diverse needs of survivors. These organizations directly support survivors, challenge harmful cultural norms, and push for systemic change.

Governmental involvement is equally imperative. The Kenyan government must prioritize the implementation and enforcement of laws against sexual violence, ensuring justice for survivors. Investing in comprehensive sex education and enhancing healthcare and support services are also fundamental steps towards prevention and recovery.

Collaboration is essential for a comprehensive response to sexual violence. Government agencies, NGOs, and civil society can leverage their resources and expertise more effectively by combining efforts. This unified approach is the best way to ensure sustainable change and make a real impact in the fight against sexual violence.

Throughout Sexual Assault Awareness Month, let us not only recognize the prevalence of sexual violence but also implement practical solutions and support initiatives that have proven to be successful. Collectively, we can cultivate a culture in Kenya where everyone is respected, supported, and secure—a culture that empowers survivors to seek justice and promotes safety for all. We can contribute by educating ourselves and others, supporting advocacy efforts, and participating in community outreach. Together, our collective actions can drive significant, lasting change.

By Vivian M. Kwame , Communications Associate-Digital

In a world where education is still a privilege for many, especially for adolescent girls in marginalized communities, the Manyatta Homeschooling Program by Akili Dada is paving the way for out-of-school girls to receive quality education. This initiative is designed to educate girls who cannot attend formal schools due to cultural practices like beading, which marks a traditional rite of passage in some communities and often ends their education. However, through the Manyatta Homeschooling Program, girls can continue their education while respecting their cultural traditions.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2024, we want to spotlight three remarkable young girls who have transitioned into formal education after undergoing the program. Ten-year-old cousins Consolata, Karuan, and their classmate Brenda hail from Baragoi County, where beading is a cultural norm for adolescent girls. During this stage, most girls are not hopeful of pursuing education or going after their dreams as they are prepared for marriage. They are taken through the day-to-day responsibilities of girls within their families and communities. However, their determination and desire to change their communities have led them to actively engage in the Manyatta-Homeschooling program, where they have gained basic writing and reading skills.

Consolata, Karuan, and Brenda’s determination and desire to change their communities led them to actively engage in the Manyatta-Homeschooling program, where they gained basic writing and reading skills. As a result of their commendable academic progress, their fathers unbeaded them, which set them free from harmful cultural practices and allowed them to transition to formal education and pursue their dreams.

Karuan and Brenda dream of becoming doctors to help their community, whereas Consolata wants to become a teacher and contribute to increasing literacy levels in Baragoi. Both girls understand that education allows girls to be independent, wise, and, most importantly, better themselves and their communities. It will enable them to pursue their dreams and become successful representatives of what girls can achieve.

These stories exemplify the transformative power of education and the importance of initiatives like the Manyatta Homeschooling Program in breaking the cycle of poverty and inequality. Let us celebrate International Women’s Day 2024 by investing in and uplifting the voices of adolescent girls who are challenging norms, defying expectations, and shaping a more equitable future for themselves and their communities.

By Vivian M. Kwame, communications associate- digital.

During my final year at university, while studying abroad, I worked part-time to support myself beyond academics and necessities. I shared a house with a white man and a young Kenyan woman couple, and thankfully, racism was not brought up as an issue within our household. However, this man consistently spoke ill of women and treated them as nothing more than maids for men.

One day, I returned home from work to hear screams from the house. To my horror, I discovered that my pregnant housemate was being brutally beaten by her boyfriend for refusing to have an abortion. He would kick her stomach and drag her across the floor. When I tried to intervene, he slapped me and belittled me, calling me a useless black beggar who only came to his country for survival. He continued to degrade us, reducing black women to objects of darkness and sex. I felt profoundly offended but managed to control myself and silently record his abusive tirade. He made it clear to us that reporting him would have little impact.

I took my injured friend to my room while the man left. After some time, I noticed a pool of blood and realized she was losing her baby; I proceeded to rush her to the hospital. This incident prompted me to take a bold step to go to the police station and report the assault. When the perpetrator was summoned, he denied involvement and claimed to have been at a party that night. The police officers turned against us, accusing us of defaming their own. Feeling helpless, I reached out to other Kenyans abroad for assistance. We were held at the station until fellow Kenyans came to our rescue. We shared the videos we had recorded, and with the help of a Kenyan attorney, we were eventually released. The case went to court, and after a long battle, the perpetrator was sentenced to three years in jail.

Following this traumatic incident, I conducted extensive personal research on empowering women to be themselves unapologetically. Through the research, I connected with numerous young women who shared their struggles and how they equally felt abandoned. It became clear to me that there was a significant gap in support for marginalized areas. This realization fueled my motivation to become an activist. I committed to returning home and assisting young women and girls in marginalized communities, equipping them with the tools to advocate for themselves. I seized the opportunity in Samburu County and began collaborating with other organizations to bridge the gap and contribute to policy-making. In my organization, we provide a safe space where young women can share their traumas and invite counselors to guide them through various therapies for healing and stability.

Ending violence against women and girls requires a collective effort that involves partnerships and mentorship. Mentored by Akili Dada, I aspire to stand alongside more women in their journey towards liberation and empowerment. As I advocate for an end to violence against women and girls, I call for an end to victim-blaming and speaking out against all forms of gender-based violence. Just because it hasn’t happened to you doesn’t mean the other person was careless.

By Beryl.

Education is the cornerstone of global progress, particularly for African girls. It isn’t merely about providing access to knowledge and skills but about fuelling a transformative change within their communities. Education enables these girls to chase their dreams, equips them with leadership acumen, and amplifies their voices in a world where they are often unheard.

At Akili Dada, our mission goes beyond providing education; we ensure that the inspiring stories of resilience from our girls and young women are heard far and wide. In addition, collaboration is at the heart of our success as we value partnerships with like-minded organizations that recognize the power of education and storytelling in transforming lives.

Last year, we hosted Christina Callaway (River) from Photographers Without Borders to help us create a portfolio of our scholars, allowing us to tell their stories and underscore the critical role of girls’ education. As part of this initiative, we journeyed to our partner schools nationwide, engaging in deep and meaningful conversations with the girls. We sought to understand their perspectives on education leadership and how we can better amplify their voices.

These interactions reinforced that girls, especially those from underserved communities, are tenacious in pursuing education despite their hurdles. With that it became evident that we need more allies and partners to invest in girls’ education.

Read a more detailed account of our journey with Photographers Without Borders from their lens: https://www.photographerswithoutborders.org/online-magazine/2024/1/25/african-women-lead.

#AfricanWomenLead #GirlsEducation #GenderEquality

By Vivian M. Kwame , Communications Associate-Digital

When I decided to open my grocery shop, I shared my idea with my boyfriend, who offered to build the shop and give me five thousand shillings. I spent long hours at the shop, collecting money and giving it to him to keep for three months. However, he kept taking all the money. Things changed when I asked him for money to restock the shop, and he refused. I then broke up with him, which led to him harassing me and belittling my ability to be financially independent.

Despite this setback, I decided to move forward and start another grocery store from scratch. I must say, it wasn’t easy, especially when people started spreading rumors about me being a prostitute because they couldn’t understand how I managed to fund my business. Men often came to my shop pretending to be customers; however332, they had a different agenda. When I rejected their advances, they stopped coming to the shop and resorted to hurling hurtful words whenever they saw me. They claimed that women can only succeed by using their bodies to gain wealth. These hurtful comments were aimed at undermining my determination and success, but I persevered.

I felt like a strong, independent woman since I could now provide for my family, put food on the table, and pay for my siblings’ school fees. Thanks to my hard work, we had decent clothes on our bodies. I felt proud of myself for the first time in a long time.

Life hasn’t been easy, however. My father’s health took a toll on my family, and it seemed like we would never recover from it. I worked tirelessly to ensure my father’s recovery and to be there for my family while they were in the hospital.

Seeking help from a friend led me to volunteer at an organization that provided trauma-healing sessions and life skills. This felt tailor-made for my situation. Through this training, I learned about the cycle of violence that I had been trapped in, its effects on me, and how to boost my resilience and improve my well-being. This experience inspired me to study counseling psychology in college to assist others in similar challenges. Thanks to the organization, I received a scholarship and became the only woman from my group to attend college after high school.

Another incredible opportunity came through Akili Dada, where I joined the Kwale team and engaged in activities under the Urithi program, which focuses on young women’s leadership and feminist empowerment. I also participated in the Regional Leadership Academy, capacity building, and advocacy workshops.

Their influence as the first feminist organization that empowered me as a woman has been invaluable in teaching me about women’s rights to leadership and decision-making. As a result, I have become a better mentor, especially to young girls and women who, through my example, understand the importance of women’s empowerment and the need to eradicate cultural practices that undermine women’s participation, leadership, expression, and financial independence in society.

By Salome.

Disclaimer: We have used a pseudonym to protect the young woman’s identity.

However, recent remarks by Bungoma County Governor Kenneth Lusaka, questioning the right of teen mothers to resume their education, raise concerns about the socio-political complexities that threaten education for all and leave the country’s girls and young women at risk of being denied their fundamental rights to education. It is ironic that education, which is hailed as a tool for women’s emancipation, can become a subject of debate and justification for denying access to education for a school-going girl who has become pregnant and seeks to continue her education.

Girls across the country face gender dynamics and unique challenges. Governor Lusaka’s simplistic approach, which suggests that girls who have given birth should be barred from returning to school to discourage other girls from getting pregnant, lacks depth, nuance, and understanding of the experiences of women and girls in this country. This pronouncement ignores data and evidence, such as the fact that 23% of Kenyan girls are married before their 18th birthday, and 4% are married before the age of 15.

In a country where child marriages and harmful traditional practices like FGM are prevalent, contributing to early and non-consensual sexual experiences for girls, Governor Lusaka’s statement, which simplistically attributes teenage pregnancy to irresponsible behavior, is misguided and uninformed.

Judicial records indicate an alarming increase in reported cases of defilement in Kenya. In 2021, there was a public outcry in Bungoma over the surge in cases of defilement of minors by close relatives, including fathers. Such realities highlight the urgent need to prioritize gender mainstreaming in political leadership and ensure the inclusion of women in decision-making processes, including political representation. Research has shown that women who hold elected or appointed political positions are more likely to make balanced decisions that benefit both genders. According to the United Nations Agency on Women (UN-Women), women’s engagement in local decision-making positions redefines local priorities, promoting inclusivity and family-friendly policies.

The push to roll back on progressive policies like the ‘Re-entry Policy’ is primarily driven by socio-cultural factors that aim to subjugate girls and young women, ultimately denying them opportunities and limiting their ability to achieve positive life outcomes. It is disheartening to hear such comments from a duty-bearer with the legislative mandate and responsibility to protect and uphold the rights and fundamental freedoms of the citizens of Kenya.

These sentiments expressed by Governor Lusaka underscore the importance of having increased gender representation in political leadership and the need for leaders who are educated in the lived, experienced, and nuanced challenges of their constituents who can adopt a more comprehensive approach to empower women and promote gender equality.

https://www.girlsnotbrides.org/learning-resources/child-marriage-atlas/regions-and-countries/kenya/#:~:text=What’s%20the%20prevalence%20rate%3F,before%20the%20age%20of%2018.

Written by Wanjiru Mbugua , Program Lead, Akili Dada