October 11, 2024, will forever be a cherished memory for the community of Ganze. On this International Day of the Girl Child, over a thousand girls gathered to celebrate a day dedicated entirely to honoring their dreams, voices, and futures. This day was made possible by the partnership between Maono change makers and Pamoja Girls, driven by a shared purpose: to bring something truly unforgettable to these young girls’ lives.
The collaboration began with a conversation between Rose, Chairperson of Maono change makers, and Claudia, Chairperson of Pamoja Girls. They both understood the unique struggles facing young girls in Ganze—challenges like barriers to education, lack of menstrual products, and a rise in teenage pregnancies. Pamoja Girls had received many requests for sanitary pads from girls in the community, while local teachers had reported an alarming increase in teenage pregnancies in their schools. Ganze’s distance from larger towns like Malindi limited regular support, so the event aimed to empower young girls, raise awareness about teenage pregnancy, and emphasize their right to health and education.
Word spread fast, and soon, the whole Maono community of CBOs was on board. Pamoja Girls took the lead, Angaza Young Mums managed funds, and Girls to Women CBO kept everyone in the loop. There were challenges along the way, especially with fundraising. Letters sent to other Civil Society Organizations for financial support didn’t yield the responses hoped for, but each CBO pitched in to offer whatever they could – personal contributions, supplies, time, resources, and money from their pockets. Their dedication kept the event on track, proving that when a community comes together, there’s little that can stand in its way.
By the morning of October 11, everything was ready. Tents were set, and Word of Light Outreach Ministries generously opened its doors for the event. By 10:00 a.m., girls from nearby villages, many of whom walked long distances to be there, were eagerly seated. Victor Kaudo from Malindi Human Rights Centre, one of the CBOs in our consortium, began the day with music, inviting everyone to sing and dance. The girls shared poems, dances, and stories, and listened to teachers, religious leaders, and local advocates who reminded them of their strength and potential. Representatives from various CBOs, including Rotaract Club of Malindi and Azadi Kenya, joined in to support the girls and their families.
The highlight of the day was the distribution of dignity packs, each one filled with essentials like sanitary pads, which were handed out with the support of teachers. Young mothers received packs with items tailored to their unique needs as well. For many, it was the first time they could focus on school and personal growth without worrying about basic necessities. The look of gratitude on their faces was enough to show the difference this small gesture made.
As the girls headed home, they left with dignity packs and the sense that they are valued and supported by their community. The event was not just a celebration, but a promise that these girls are believed in, cared for, and empowered.
For us at Maono, this day is a reminder of why we do what we do. We believe that sustainable change happens best when it starts from the heart of a community. By creating spaces where local leaders can come together, share resources, and work side-by-side, we’re building a foundation for a future where communities like Ganze can thrive. This celebration was proof of what’s possible when we lift each other up, showing that with a shared vision and a little help from one another, we can create lasting change in our various communities.
