Life Skills Education to End Teenage Pregnancy

Hope Foundation for African Women (HFAW) conducted a school advocacy session at Kebuko D.O.K Primary School in Nyamira County as part of its ongoing efforts to address Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Gender-Based Violence (GBV), teenage pregnancy, menstrual health, children's rights, and life skills development. The school has a population of 291 learners, comprising 138 boys and 153 girls, supported by 18 teachers. Through interactive discussions, learners were provided with a safe space to openly share their views and concerns regarding issues affecting their wellbeing.

The session revealed that FGM remains a significant challenge within the community and is increasingly being carried out on very young children. Learners shared perspectives that highlighted the persistence of the practice, the silence surrounding it, and the pain experienced by those who have undergone FGM. One learner stated, “Don’t tell me about that cut. It was so painful. I bled a lot until they tried to stop the bleeding, but I still ended up in the hospital.” Such reflections demonstrated the harmful physical and emotional impact of the practice on girls.

Learners also raised questions that reflected common misconceptions used to justify FGM, asking, “Is it true that when I am cut I will look beautiful?” and “My grandmother told me that if I am not cut, I will be like a dog running after every man.” These statements illustrated the deep-rooted cultural beliefs that continue to influence children's perceptions and underscore the need for sustained community engagement.

The discussions further highlighted factors contributing to teenage pregnancy, including poverty, peer pressure, lack of parental guidance, and relationships with older men. Learners explained that some girls engage in such relationships due to financial hardships, while others are influenced by peers. Menstrual health challenges were also identified, with some girls reporting difficulties accessing sanitary products, leading to absenteeism and increased vulnerability.

In response, HFAW facilitated child-friendly awareness activities and life skills education focusing on self-awareness, decision-making, assertiveness, and resisting peer pressure. Learners were encouraged to seek guidance from trusted adults, while information on child protection, available support systems, and reporting mechanisms was shared. A "do no harm" approach was applied to ensure that learners who had already undergone FGM were not stigmatized. Many learners expressed their commitment to reject harmful practices, support their peers, and advocate for a future free from FGM and GBV.

Teachers and school administrators appreciated the intervention and emphasized the need for continued engagement. HFAW recognizes that children alone cannot end GBV and FGM. Sustainable change requires the active involvement of parents, particularly fathers and male guardians, community elders, religious leaders, teachers, and local administration. The organization therefore remains committed to extending awareness efforts beyond schools to households and communities to address the social norms that perpetuate harmful practices.

HFAW sincerely appreciates the support of its donors and partners whose contributions make such interventions possible. Their continued investment in community-based prevention efforts enables more children and families to access critical information, support, and protection. We invite our partners to continue walking alongside us as we strive to reach more communities and contribute to the collective effort of ending FGM, GBV, and other forms of violence against children.