Stigma and Lack of Policy Hinder Teenage Mothers' Return to School in Kenya

In Siaya County, Kenya, 21% of girls drop out of school as a result of teenage pregnancy, ranking the county fourth nationally, according to the Kenya Demographic Health Survey 2024 report. Despite efforts by organizations like the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) to support these young mothers in returning to their education, significant obstacles remain.

Why this matters: The lack of support for teenage mothers in returning to school perpetuates a cycle of poverty and limits their opportunities for social and economic mobility. If left unaddressed, this issue can have long-term consequences for the region's economic development and gender equality.

The Imarisha Msichana project, a collaboration between FAWE and the Mastercard Foundation, aims to reduce teenage pregnancies, end early child marriages, and facilitate the re-entry of teenage mothers into schools. However, project coordinator Everlyne Amunga notes that stigma and a lack of policy structures continue to hinder progress. "We have done a lot as an organization in terms of sensitization in Siaya County, but the teenage mothers are still called derogatory names by their classmates or even viewed negatively by the community, which has not only discouraged some of them but also contributed to some opting out of school forever," Amunga states.

The absence of clear policies and support structures to assist teenage mothers in transitioning back to school and advancing to the next career level exacerbates the challenge. Education leaders in the region are working to develop a policy that would ensure support for these young women and their children as they continue their education.

The Imarisha Msichana project has achieved notable successes, with many girls who had previously dropped out on account of unplanned pregnancies choosing to return to school. Amunga highlights the project's partnerships with schools in Siaya County, such as Rambira girls in Rarieda sub-county, Nyaguda and Nyamonye girls in Bondo sub-counties, which have been instrumental in providing these young mothers with a second chance. "We work with various schools in Siaya County... to ensure that our girls get a second chance in life, and the impact has been significant,"she affirms.

Amunga urges the public and students to reject the stigmatization of teenage mothers who have made the brave decision to return to school, emphasizing that support is vital in breaking the cycle of poverty in the region. Maida Nyawade, the county director of youth and social services, echoes this sentiment, stating,"We are in support of any engagement that will reduce teenage pregnancy and re-entry of teenage mothers into school because if we do not do it, we shall be perpetuating poverty circle in the region."

As Siaya County struggles with the high rate of teenage pregnancy and its impact on girls' education, the Imarisha Msichana project's efforts to challenge stigma and advocate for policy changes offer a glimmer of hope. By addressing these barriers and providing the necessary support, the community can empower these young mothers to pursue their dreams and break free from the cycle of poverty.

Key Takeaways

• In Siaya County, Kenya, 21% of girls drop out of school due to teenage pregnancy.
• Stigma and lack of policy structures hinder teenage mothers' return to school.
• The Imarisha Msichana project aims to reduce teenage pregnancies and support mothers' re-entry into school.
• Clear policies and support structures are needed to assist teenage mothers in continuing their education.
• Community support is vital in breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering teenage mothers.