In Kisii County, a community-based organization (CBO) is taking significant steps to address the challenges that girls face in accessing education. Grace Community Centre (GCC), led by Civil Society Organization Director Robert Gutwa, is championing the rights of the girl child by calling on organizations to support their efforts in providing sanitary towels to girls in schools and other learning institutions. The initiative is aimed at ensuring that girls remain in school throughout the year, uninterrupted by menstruation, which is often a barrier to their education.
During an end-of-year celebration, Gutwa highlighted the need to keep girls in school, especially during their menstrual periods. He emphasized that many girls from poor families stay at home during their periods, as they cannot afford sanitary towels. This absence from school negatively impacts their education and overall performance in both local and national exams. He explained, “We want both the boy and the girl child to be in school during the stipulated time, to compete and provide them with a level playing field.” Through this initiative, GCC is ensuring that girls are comfortable and supported, creating an environment where they can thrive academically.
Gutwa, accompanied by Pastor Joseph Oichoe and Trainer Lydia Mosero, distributed washable sanitary towels, personal hygiene items, and Christmas foodstuffs to learners from both primary and secondary schools. The washable sanitary towels, which last for three years, are a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative. These towels are sewn by the CBO, which not only addresses immediate needs but also teaches girls essential life skills. The distribution of these items is part of a broader effort to provide the girls with the tools they need to stay in school, excel in their studies, and ultimately break the cycle of poverty.
Beyond providing sanitary towels, Gutwa also emphasized the importance of nurturing moral values and empowering the girls with life skills. He challenged the beneficiaries to, in turn, give back to the community once they complete their education and secure employment. He stated, “We nurture talents in children, sensitize them on moral values, and empower them with pads and life skills.” He also urged parents and guardians to give both boys and girls equal opportunities in education, allowing them to realize their full potential.
The initiative’s broader focus extends beyond education, as Pastor Oichoe raised concerns about the increasing cases of defilement and gender-based violence. He linked these issues to a lack of moral values, which he believes can be exacerbated by indecent dressing. “When girls dress indecently, adolescent boys might be tempted to defile them and ruin their lives,” he warned. Oichoe urged parents to guide their children in making responsible choices and instill strong moral values to avoid such temptations.
In addition to education and moral guidance, Trainer Lydia Mosero addressed the growing issues of female genital mutilation (FGM), femicide, and gender-based violence. She criticized parents who collude with medical practitioners to subject girls to FGM, calling it unacceptable. Mosero emphasized the importance of empowering girls to speak out against retrogressive practices. “We are teaching the girls to report those who try to lure them into embracing such practices to the relevant authorities,” she explained. She also expressed concern about the rising cases of violence, urging stakeholders to work together to reverse these harmful trends.
