On Saturday 1st December 2018, the DLSF facilitated a mothers’ forum in Chepseon, Kericho County. The mothers’ forum was dubbed ‘ Breaking the Silence’ and was aimed at encouraging mothers to speak up to their children especially girls on matters sexuality and guide them against Teenage pregnancies. In the forum, there was also a Counselling Session for teenage mothers and a few school girls and a Business Training on Liquid Detergent making.
The event was a success after 32 teenage mothers (including mothers in their early 20’s who became mothers during their teen years), 15 older women (mothers who were not teenagers) and 12 teenage girls actively participated in the educative forum. The event was led by the DLSF founding Director Ms. Daisy Kosgey, other DLSF Directors and a Teens’ Coach from Nairobi.
Among the deliberations made, the teenage girls were encouraged to focus on their education and shun engagements that could lead to irresponsible sexual behavior and eventually lead to unplanned teenage pregnancies. The older women were encouraged to open up and talk to their children on sexuality matters and also take a collective responsibility of guiding the children within their community. They were also encouraged to report perpetrators of teenage pregnancies to the Authorities for necessary legal actions.
Rehabilitation of Teenage Mothers
To culminate the event and in line with one of our 4 functional areas, i.e. ‘Rehabilitation of Teenage Mothers’, the young mothers were motivated to refocus on life and know that the future still has much in store for them. They were encouraged to get back to track and pursue their dreams whether in school, business or other economic activities. Finally, the teenage mothers were offered a training on how to make liquid detergent as an economic activity and also some tips on effective marketing strategies. The Foundation provided ingredients and raw materials for the detergent to 9 groups of teenage mothers. The proceeds from the detergent sales will be accumulated and managed effectively to enable the young mothers make a living.
The best quote for the day was ‘If poverty is your inheritance, let your character be your capital’ ~ SK
The Foundation will continue working with various stakeholders with a vision of reducing the rates of teenage pregnancies in the Country.
To support and participate please click https://www.dearlittlesisters.org/how-to-support/
PHOTOS
Find more photos on https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.653268431741292&type=3
Great initiative. Motherhood waits