Article - Breaking Barriers - The Power Of Youth In Policy Leadership - 2024-12-05

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Author

Mastercard Foundation

Year

2024

Publication/Event Date

December 04 2024

Abstract

This article, published on December 4, 2024, profiles The G for Girls Initiative, led by Executive Director Priscah Obutu Mongera. This Initiative demonstrates the significant power of Youth-Led Organizations (YLOs) in driving social change and policy leadership in Kenya.G for Girls utilizes evidence-based advocacy and constructive, "harmonious methods" of dialogue rather than confrontation to influence leaders. Their landmark legislative achievement was the successful advocacy for the Kwale Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Protection Act, which ensures victims receive care and protection without financial burden. The program also equips 500 rural girls with essential skills, fostering a supportive ecosystem with local authorities and parents to promote girls’ retention in primary school and transition to secondary education. Additionally, through Community Initiative Groups, such as the Kiwegu Unit, they foster community ownership by addressing immediate needs, including working to build a local school to reduce long walking distances for children. This commitment aligns with the Mastercard Foundation’s strategy to enable young women to access dignified work.

Resource Subject

Keywords/Access Points

G for Girls Initiative; Essential Skills; Community Initiative Groups; Gender; Gender Based Violence (GBV); Advocacy

Geographic Locations

Language

Demographic Groups

Special Collections

Archival Record ID

MFA.2024.2402