Sauti Ya Dada – Copy – Copy
A ccording to a needs assessment survey conducted by Concern for the Girl Child (CGC) in the Nakawa division, areas such as Ntinda, Kyambogo, and Kiwatule reveal that teenage girls, particularly those aged 12 to 19, face significant challenges. Limited access to education (80%) and employment opportunities, along with a lack of family support (60%), have led to high school dropout rates. Community leaders point to resource scarcity, cultural barriers, and gender discrimination as primary obstacles, while disparities in existing empowerment programs persist. Despite 58.3% of surveyed girls currently being enrolled in school, they continue to struggle with economic hardships, domestic violence, and feelings of isolation. The survey also highlights a shared need among the girls for emotional support and guidance.
Year:
2024 (July-December)
Category:
Child Protection
Goal:
The Haven Project, funded by the Mott Foundation through BarefootLaw, aims to create a safe space where girls can freely express themselves, focus on personal growth, and pursue their educational aspirations.
Description:
The Haven Project is a transformative initiative that provides a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for vulnerable girls to express themselves freely, focus on personal growth, and pursue their educational goals. The project is designed to address the unique challenges faced by these girls by offering holistic services that foster resilience, promote emotional healing, and equip them with vital skills for economic independence. At the heart of The Haven is the belief that every girl deserves the opportunity to thrive, and through this initiative, we aim to make that a reality.
Achievement:
30 girls were selected for the Haven and a safe space was established. 30 girls have participated in counseling sessions and resilience-building sessions. This has been done through the Sparkle squads where the girls are placed in groups of 5 to 8 with a mentor known as a Sparkle Quard. The Sparkle Guard is taksed with leading the girls through different mentorship sessions with different topics. These menstorship sessions have helped them overcome emotional and social challenges while fostering self-confidence and mental strength.
The girls have been trained in various livelihood skills such as arts and crafts (Paper bags,table mats and door mats), computer repair, and entrepreneurship. These skills have enabled several girls to start small businesses, helping them achieve financial independence.
The reading club established by The Haven has led to a notable improvement in the academic performance of the girls involved.
The Haven’s holistic approach has had a positive ripple effect in the community, as the empowered girls are becoming role models for their peers, inspiring others to strive for personal growth and educational success.
