Tunawiri Pamoja's Young Women's Business Program in Mumias (Western Kenya), implemented in partnership with ICUUW, is focusing on building young women’s capacities in the informal economy for long-term success.
In November 2023, sessions on the third focus area - Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights - addressed topics such as reproductive rights in Kenya, actions to take during rape/defilement, abortion access, prioritizing one’s own health, family planning, and human rights.
The young women participating were introduced to different family planning methods and given time to go discuss the issues with their spouses and partners. Family planning decisions, perceptions, and gender dynamics among couples were explored, and taboos and myths around family planning were demystified.
The training sessions came to an end on December 10, 2023 with celebrations of 25 days of activism against gender-based violence. The most interesting part of the day was when a number of young men were able to share their views on sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). Men are supposed to be strong, suppress their emotions, and not speak about SGBV. These sessions encouraged change in attitudes and perceptions not only as related to SGBV, but also toward what it means to be a man. Addressing societal expectations and toxic masculinity are crucial in engaging men and boys as advocates to eliminate all gender-based violence.
When Tunawiri Pamoja’s Young Women’s Business Program comes to an end next year, we intend to continue our Village Savings and Loans Association, a self-managed group meeting regularly to save together and take small loans from those savings.