In many Samburu and Maa communities, it is still considered “not ok” for a woman to stand before elders or men; a tradition that persists in some remote areas. This International Women’s Day, under the theme “CHOOSE TO CHALLENGE,” we are determined to break these outdated beliefs. We recognize that women are natural leaders whose insights deserve a place in decision-making.
To foster change, we convened meetings between schoolgirls and their paternal figures in Isiolo North and Laikipia North. These gatherings are designed to build stronger bonds between fathers and daughters, encouraging open dialogue about needs and aspirations.
By empowering girls to speak directly to their fathers, we aim to support their educational dreams free from restrictive cultural norms.
We extend our gratitude to Petalés Research and Management Solutions for their support through the Dream Girls Project, and we thank the fathers in Parkuruk, Rap, and Tuale in Isiolo North, as well as Kurum, Kiwanja Ndege, Soit Oudo, and Saramba in Laikipia North, for choosing to challenge these traditions. Together, we are forging a path toward a brighter future for our next generation.