In Homa Bay County, a proactive mentorship initiative is making strides in empowering adolescent girls to overcome the myriad challenges they face in their pursuit of education. The county, which has been grappling with high rates of child rights violations such as defilement and HIV infections, is witnessing a positive shift thanks to the efforts of various groups, including the Champions for Change Youth Network.
The Champions for Change Youth Network, supported by Plan International Kenya, is at the forefront of this transformative mission. The initiative is dedicated to equipping girls with life skills, helping them navigate the obstacles that threaten their well-being and educational aspirations. According to Evelyn Atieno, the founder of the group, the mentorship programs have had a significant impact on the lives of many school-going children in the county.
“Statistics indicate that Homa Bay is among the most affected counties, with many girls having their rights violated. We use data from different agencies to identify these areas,” Atieno said. The program primarily targets girls in Ndhiwa and Rangwe constituencies, areas that have been identified as hotspots for sexual offenses and other forms of child abuse, based on records from the children services department.
Atieno emphasized the importance of involving younger professionals in the mentorship process, explaining that this approach makes the girls more comfortable and fosters a deeper understanding of the issues they face. “We try to let younger professionals be the ones mentoring the learners. They understand many problems the young girls are undergoing,” she said.
The mentorship sessions are not just about imparting knowledge; they also provide practical support. During a recent talk at Rambusi Primary School in North Kanyamwa, Ndhiwa constituency, mentees were given packets of sanitary towels, bars of soap, and panties to address menstrual hygiene—a critical aspect of ensuring that girls do not miss school during their periods.
Joseph Mwita, the officer in charge of child protection at Plan International Kenya, highlighted that the exercise is designed to strengthen the girls’ understanding of their rights and the impact of their decisions, particularly regarding sexuality. “We’re widening skills and knowledge for girls to know that the decision they make will impact their lives, especially on sexuality,” Mwita said.
The involvement of various stakeholders, including local administration, children services officials, state, and non-state actors, has been crucial in the success of this initiative. Their presence during the mentorship sessions not only lends credibility to the program but also ensures that the message of child protection reaches a broader audience.
Joseph Otieno, the Homa Bay Children Services officer, underscored the importance of public awareness regarding the penalties for violating children’s rights. He believes that educating the community about the consequences of such violations can significantly reduce instances of child abuse. “It is better to prevent than to respond. We will however respond to any case of child abuse and ensure suspects are charged and convicted in court,” Otieno said.
Acting area Chief Kenneth Oguttu echoed this sentiment, calling on parents to take a leading role in molding their children into responsible citizens. He stressed the importance of correction and guidance, noting that failure to address a child’s mistakes can lead to negative consequences. “It is possible to correct a child when they make a mistake. Failure to correct them is likely to lead to negative consequences,” Oguttu stated.
The ongoing mentorship program in Homa Bay County serves as a beacon of hope for many girls who face significant challenges in their educational journey. By providing them with the tools, knowledge, and support they need, the Champions for Change Youth Network, alongside other stakeholders, is helping to shape a brighter future for these young girls, ensuring they can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.
