The Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) has organized awareness forums in the Western region to educate men and boys on combating the triple threat of HIV/AIDS, Sexual Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), and teen pregnancies ahead of the August traditional circumcision ceremonies.
These ceremonies, which involve the Tachoni, Bukusu, and Batura communities, are viewed as significant factors contributing to teenage pregnancies, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), and the spread of HIV/AIDS.
According to the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS), Bungoma County has the highest incidence of GBV cases, accounting for 62% of reported incidents, and also leads in teenage pregnancies. The KDHS report indicates that 34% of women in Kenya have experienced physical violence since age 15, compared to 27% of men.
The sensitization forums were initiated in response to rising concerns from authorities regarding increasing teenage pregnancy rates in Bungoma and Kakamega counties.
At a recent conference for boys and men in Bungoma, Martin Okhako, a member of FAWE’s Western region secretariat, expressed concern about the alarming rates of teenage pregnancies in the area. He emphasized the importance of engaging men and boys to understand the impact of these issues on girls.
FAWE is currently implementing projects in 20 counties aimed at protecting girls from the triple threat, acknowledging that some communities still practice harmful traditions such as FGM. Okhako noted that involving men and boys is crucial, as they play a significant role in teenage pregnancies.
Nyongesa Watulo, Chairman of the Parents Association for the Western region, praised FAWE for its proactive approach and highlighted that the upcoming circumcision ceremonies are linked to the triple threat. He stressed the stigma faced by pregnant teens and urged all stakeholders to unite in addressing these issues.
Watulo criticized the practice of resolving teen pregnancy cases in Kangaroo courts, which undermines justice and encourages further abuses. He also mentioned the concerning prevalence of incest within families.
Laura Doresi, FAWE’s County Coordinator, announced that in partnership with the MasterCard Foundation, FAWE is implementing the “Imarisha Msichana” project in the Western region, aimed at reducing teenage pregnancies and supporting young mothers in returning to school.
Fighting the Triple Threat: FAWE’s Role in Addressing Teenage Pregnancy and Violence in Western Kenya
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