Mtaa Buzz – Page 9 – Mukuru Youth Initiative

9Mar, 2023

What’s The Difference Between PEP and PrEP?

*Participants during Coffee Bar Tuesday. Photo Courtesy: Julius Rasat*

Do you think you are at risk of contracting HIV? This question was the topic of the discussion with the majority of the participants stating that they are not at risk of being infected. The #CoffeeBarSession hosted young people from Mukuru with PEP and PrEP being at the center of the discussion.

How many times have you heard of a condom bursting? How many times have you had sexual intercourse with multiple partners? How many times have you heard of rape cases? Does that put you at risk?

PEP and PrEP discussion came at a better time when young people are not aware of how they work and the difference. Out of 27 participants, 25 have never heard of these types of medicines. This is a clear indication that there’s less information and this is also a contributing factor on the rise of HIV infections among young people.

We dwelled in understanding the difference between the two drugs and also who is at risk of getting HIV with a lot of people getting confused and shocked that there are actually medicines that can prevent HIV. 7 people have heard of PEP since its usually given after someone has been exposed through sexual assault such as rape. The difference between Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is one is taken before exposure while the other is taken after you have been exposed.

How is it possible that we have a drug that protect us and the drug is not known to many, do they want us to get infected or what is their own motive.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is antiretroviral medicine taken by HIV negative individuals to prevent getting HIV. If you don’t have HIV but have a high risk of contracting the virus, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) may be an option for you. Taking this medication once a day can greatly reduce your chances of developing HIV.

PrEP is for you if have had anal or vaginal sex in the past 6 months, you have a sexual partner who is HIV positive, you have not consistently used a condom or have been diagnosed with an STD in the past 6 months. This type of medicine is meant for people who don’t live with HIV but have higher chances of developing the condition.

PEP better known as post-exposure prophylaxis, is a short course of HIV medicines taken very soon after a possible exposure to HIV to prevent the virus from taking hold in your bodyThe medicine must be taken within 72 hours (3 days) after a possible exposure to HIV, or it won’t work. The drug is usually taken on emergency cases and is not meant for regular use by people who may be exposed to HIV frequently.

A lady participant pointed out that with the help of organization within Mukuru and beyond have in the frontline of sensitizing women and girls on PrEP and PEP leaving men and boys out the conversation. It was also noted that condom is the most used way of protecting yourself from being infected. However, majority were not aware that as soon as the condom bursts, you are also at risk of being infected.

Different reports indicate that people below 29 years are at higher risk of contracting the virus. Kenya may not achieve its quest to combat HIV/Aids if the current wave of new infections among adolescents and the youth is not contained and addressed. The first step is making sure that New HIV infections are contained by is by making sure information such as PrEP and PEP is not known out there. There’s need to have a vigorous campaign on PEP and PrEP. Young girls are being sexually violated and are not aware of any medication that would protect them from HIV.

We are all at risk of getting HIV, especially young people. Looking at the rate of teenage pregnancies and infections, we all need to take PrEP. Remember prevention is better than cure. In case you hear someone has been raped or a condom bursts, visit the office immediately.

As an organization, we continue to create safe spaces where young people can unlearn and learn. We believe in community that is well empowered and understands how the world its changing. Kindly note that the information shared here is not from a doctor. You need to visit the hospital for information and guidance. See you on Tuesday!

3Feb, 2023

MHUB Producer Misee

Music on safe hands

The MuYI Hub Studio offers a space for recording podcasts, voiceovers, and other audio projects at an affordable price. The studio is equipped with the necessary technology and equipment to ensure high-quality recordings. Our Head studio producer, Misee, will be available to assist with any technical needs and to ensure that your recording session runs smoothly. Book your slot at the MuYI Hub Studio today to get started on your audio project.

Misee is a highly experienced and skilled professional in the audio production industry. His extensive background in various roles within the industry, as well as his work with notable artists, make him well-suited to lead the MuYI Hub Studio and provide high-quality recordings for clients. The MuYI Hub Studio, under Misee’s guidance, offers an affordable option for recording podcasts, voiceovers, and other audio projects for anyone looking for a professional studio space.

In addition to his professional experience and expertise, Misee’s passion for music and the industry make him a valuable asset to the MuYI Hub Studio. His background in teaching and lecturing also means that he is well-suited to work with and mentor young, aspiring audio professionals in the Mukuru community. Misee’s dedication to transforming the music industry in a positive way aligns with the mission of MuYI to empower and support young change makers in the community.

He’s very passionate in making sure upcoming artists understand the music industry as a business, the laws governing it and ways in which they can improve their music career. At the MuYI Hub Studio we guarantee you the best output using your vision as an artist. We bring knowledge, experience, professionalism and quality to your music.We are located at the Reuben Stadium in Mukuru Kwa Reuben.

2Feb, 2023

How Do You Manage Expectations In A Relationship?

*Coffee Bar Discussions. Photo: Julius Rasat*

Have you ever wondered if your expectations in a relationship are too high or even too low? We all begin a relationship with expectations of being treated with kindness, love, affection, dignity, respect and so much more. But is that the reality? This week’s Coffee Bar Tuesday, we focused on what to do if your expectations are not met and how to manage them in a relationship?

Your expectations in a relationship tell more about the other person and how serious the relationship is. Your expectations also answers questions such as is the person you are dating really the one? Is the person you’re dating serious about you, or should you leave the long-term relationship you’ve held onto. Your expectation should not tolerate any emotional or physical abuse. In the end, you expect your partner to be loyal and make a life together.

With the discussion being led by young people who are usually the culprits of expecting more than the other party can deliver or fulfill. We started by asking, what do you expect in a relationship? Different people with different expectations, some of the expectations pointed out were respect, honesty, caring, love, empathy, support, someone being there for you, physical intimacy, clear communication, friendship among others.

A participant highlighted how expectations can shape dynamics, influence tone, and cultivate a sense of safety and support within a relationship. Other participants felt that having to lower expectations will protect you from any misunderstandings or conflicts. It was also pointed out that any relationship with zero expectations is not a relationship but more of a friendship.

Setting healthy and realistic expectations can keep you and your partner happy. It is unfair to burden your partner with too much than they can deliver. However, it is also good to have a few expectations that do not harm your relationship in any way. We have seen people losing track of being diagnosed with mental illness and disorders as a result of relationship break ups.

“Most crucial expectation from my partner is support. Nowadays, we are in a relationship with someone but can’t even count the number of places or situations that they have helped you.” Participant Said

It is only human to have certain expectations in a relationship but managing them is where the problem starts from. When it comes to managing expectations, the only way to go about it is through open and honest communication. Here are some of tips on how to manage expectations:

Communication and support: Good and clear communication is essential in any relationship. Being able to share what you expect from each other will help in understanding each other’s needs and building a strong bond.
Lowering your expectations: Having less or manageable expectations will save you from heartbreaks, emotional breakdown and even mental illness. Majority of us expect so much without thinking about the other person.
Someone with the same energy; Relationships should be enjoyable, and partners should make time for fun, adventure, and new experiences together. This cannot happen if you two don’t have the same energy towards some things.
Have reasonable expectations: You should not hold your partner or your relationship to unrealistic expectations. Your expectations should match what you can also deliver. I.e. It may be detrimental to the relationship to expect your partner to spend all their free time with you.

You will build a healthy relationship If both of you are open and willing to discuss your expectations from each other. You should be honest with your partner about the expectations you can meet and those that you will need more time to meet and that’s how you build a relationship together. Remember, every relationship is unique and individual expectations may vary. This is not professional advice but advice from people who have/are in relationships. See you on Tuesday.

27Jan, 2023

Our Music Professional Producer Misee

Music on safe hands

25Jan, 2023

Kenyan Men Have An Average of 7 Sexual Partners – Report

*Participants during Coffee Bar Tuesday. Photo: Julius Rasat*

The Kenya National Bureau Of Statistics launched the Kenya Demographic & Health Survey 2022 report which has sparked conversations in different settings and contexts. Our discussion for this week’s Coffee bar Tuesday focused on the report launched specifically on sexual partners. The report indicates that the average number of sexual partners among Kenyan men is 7.4 and 2.3 for Kenyan Women in their lifetime.

The report also indicates that 35 percent of men reported having sex in the last 12 months with a person who neither was their wife nor lived with them, and 68% of these men reported using a condom during their last sexual intercourse with such a partner. In terms of age, those aged 20-24 had the highest percentage (5.8%) of sexual partners, followed by those aged 15-29 and 30-39.

Do you think the numbers are low or high? Do you think the report touches on Kenyan context (both city and urban set up?? These were some of the guiding questions during the discussion with the majority feeling that the report wasn’t true and was somehow biased. A participant pointed out that the numbers should be higher than the ones quoted. Other participants felt that the study was conducted by a woman and that is why the numbers on women are low. Supporting his opinion, he cited that in this era, women have men for every need and want such as rent, hair, foodstuffs, makeup, treats, shopping and accessories.

”You will get a lady who has all her needs sorted by men. She has different men for rent, foodstuffs, accessories, treats and so much more. That study was not done in a city set up.” Participants said

A participant felt that women who were interviewed were not purely honest unlike their counterparts who were brutally honest. The numbers on women should be more than is being quoted on the survey report. In a survey of more than 20 participants, half thought the information shared seemed abstract. With men also being at the center of the topic, a participant pointed out that the number of sexual partners that men have should be more than 7. Adding that there are known men who have more than sexual partners.

With all the statistics being shared out there, we are not drawing enough attention to the number of teenage pregnancies, the number of new HIV infections or the number of cases of sexual and gender based violence. Majority of these are as a result of having multiple sexual partners. Old men are having sex with small girls and old women are sleeping with small boys. Young people are also having multiple sexual partners due to different reasons.

We asked what could be the reason why people are having multiple sexual partners and here are some of the reasons raised: –

Sex is too available much available
Sex nowadays used for leisure
People no longer value relations
Poverty – Having to cater for basic needs
People are looking for satisfaction and exploring sexual fetishes
There are a lot of trust issues,
People are idle and sex is the only thing to keep them busy
Contraceptives are too available
Availability of PREP
Peer Pressure

In the end we all agreed some of these “reasons” can be overlooked but they can lead to consequences that will hunt you in future. Illiteracy, childhood marriage, sex addiction, Hiv/STI infections, unwanted pregnancies, cycle of poverty continue and it can lead to mental health issues. As a country, there’s a lot we need to do to curb the increasing numbers in teenage pregnancies, HIV infections and childhood marriages. As young people, we must change the current trending and set good example for ourselves and the coming generation. See you on Tuesday!

15Dec, 2022

Protecting Your Mental Health During Holidays

*Participants during Coffee Bar Session. Photo: Julius Rasat*

December is mostly referred to as mwezi ya sherehe (party month) but not too many due to financial status, family status or not a priority. This week’s #CoffeeBarTuesday focused on how we can protect our mental health during this festive season. During December, many people travel upcountry to share the festive season with their families, friends and neighbors. However, so much has happened this year affecting our lives such as losing our loved ones, losing jobs, lost friends, families broken up amongst others. With all these happenings, it clearly shows that the majority of us will be mentally unstable not unless we act.

Our discussion started with understanding how many of us will be traveling up country for this festive season and how that would make you feel if you’re going anywhere. Majority of the participants pointed out that they are not going upcountry due to reasons that are out of their control. Reports done showed that 64% of people with mental illness report holidays make their conditions worse.

One of the participants pointed out that he lost his grandma early this year, she was the backbone of the family and through her they were able to meet every end of the year. But with her passing this year, no one is talking about going up the country since there’s no one to visit. Another participant shared that after his father’s death, they are no longer planning to have anything since their father was more of a convener of the family. Other reasons pointed out include the hike price of transport, all family members are in Nairobi and not being able to cater for everyone’s needs especially for the firstborns.

“My grandma was the reason why we all went to upcountry, after she passed away, we have no plans of having any get together meetings as of now.” Participant Said

Connecting these experiences and childhood, most families used to cook chapatis and others would slaughter a goat or chicken and then there are those who didn’t even have a meal for the day. This affected the majority of us to a point we stopped visiting our neighbors. During times of cheeriness, not feeling as enthusiastic as others can be stigmatizing. Not being able to match the same level as your friends, family or colleagues can really affect your mental state resulting in you finding a coping mechanism which at the end affects your mental state. We have seen people becoming drunkards day in and day out during this festive season and it could be they are fighting something that we don’t know about. Being left out is something that is not easy to comprehend and this is where you start abusing drugs and substance or you become an introvert.

“As someone who my family looks up to, I am not in a position to spend time with my family due to financial constraints. I am expected to cater for my sisters and brothers transport to upcountry which is currently at KShs 3000 per person.” Participant said

With our focus being how we can protect our mental state, we pointed out a few ways that would help in protecting your mental health. Here are some suggestions on how you can reduce stress and maintain good mental health during this festive season. However, it’s good to note that this may not work on everyone and it’s not professional advice.

Don’t Compare Yourself with anyone.

It is easy to compare your situation to others’ especially if you have lost a loved one or a job one which increases feelings of loneliness or sadness. If you see people having fun and you don’t have the same energy, then it’s okay to leave the place and get to do something else that you love such as walking, reading a book, sleeping, watching movies or documentaries.

Know And Understand Your Limitations.

It’s always advisable to accept your limitations and be patient with others too. You should prioritize the most important activities or schedule activities for after the holidays: It is important to learn how to say “no” when you are overwhelmed by social obligations and demands made on you by others. With the bus fare hike, you shouldn’t force yourself to travel if you don’t have money. Remember that there’s life after the festive season.

Try Not To Feel Alone or Isolated

It’s true that many of us have friends and family to spend time with during the holiday season, but it’s also possible to become isolated during this time. If someone close to you has recently died or you can’t be with loved ones for other reasons, realize that it’s normal to feel sadness and grief. It’s okay to take time to cry or express your feelings. You can’t force yourself to be happy just because it’s the holiday season. You can also take advantage of other ways to connect such calling, texting, emailing and social media.

Have a Budget

With so much happening, always have a budget. This will help in controlling your expenses and also protects your mental state. Before you do food shopping or kuchafua meza, decide how much money you can afford to spend, then stick to your budget. Don’t try to buy happiness with gifts. Don’t overspend trying to impress your family or friends, remember life continues after the festive season.

Be Careful With Your Actions

Keeping in mind that everyone is not like you, try to accept family members and friends as they are. If someone gets upset or distressed when something goes wrong, be accommodating and understanding. Keep grievances off until a more appropriate time for discussion. Most likely, they are also experiencing holiday stress and depression. However, if you feel their actions are affecting your mental state, it’s okay to leave and focus on something else constructive.

Seeking Spiritual Help

If you are a spiritual person, this would also be a good time to spend time in your church or reading a Bible. Majority stating that spending time in church makes them feel a higher sense of purpose, peace, hope and meaning. Spirituality can help you deal with stress by giving you a sense of peace.

Regardless of your plans, its important to share with your family, friends and colleagues on your plans.

This festive season, be kind to yourself and put your mental and physical well-being first. Don’t let holidays become something draining you mentally. Instead, take steps that will protect you and others. Also, avoid excessive tobacco, alcohol and drug use. Happy Holidays and See you on Tuesday!

1Dec, 2022

The Role Of Young People In Ending SGBV

Sexual and gender-based violence remain a major challenge that the world is facing today. Sexual offences have adverse effects that derails social and economic development of an individual and that of a country. A report indicates that as a country we use close to 46 billion Kenyan shillings annually in addressing SGBV. With these figures, it surely shows that there is a high prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence in Kenya.

With the commemoration of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, our #CoffeeBarTuesday discussion focused on what we can do as young people in prevention, response and documentation of cases of sexual and gender-based violence – more so on prevention. With young people also being part of the conversation will help in decreasing cases that usually involve their peers.

The conversation touched on what the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence stands for and its main objective which is to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls. The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that kicks off on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and runs until 10 December which is a Human Rights Day.

It’s good to note that the majority of young people are not even aware of this commemoration and some think it’s a women thing – shows where to concentrate. It also shows there’s a lot that needs to be done in creating awareness amongst the young people. With better understanding of sexual and gender-based violence, its types and forms, it was easy to have a candid conversation on our roles as young people. Sexual violence can affect you mentally, emotionally, physically and psychologically.

Majority of young people believe that sexual and gender-based violence is mainly for the old generation and that’s why they keep off or rarely engaged on SGBV conversations.

“I can’t be raped by someone I call my wife or girlfriend, where does she even start? Furthermore, I can’t rape her since she’s mine, its my conjugal rights.” Participant said

Out of 10 young men, only 2 believe that they can be raped by their partner. The other 8 believe that there’s no way someone you have been married to can rape you since its their conjugal right. This clearly shows why intimate partner violence is underreported and there’s a need for communities to understand consent is crucial whether you’re in a relationship or not.

One thing that stood out during the conversations is young people understanding that having sex with an underage is an offence that is punishable by law. Majority were not aware that having sex with a 17-year-old whether she consented or not is also considered as an offence. We shared that under the Sexual offences Act, having sex with anyone below the age of 18 is a crime.

With our set up, we dwelled more on sexual and gender-based violence forms such as rape, defilement, intimate partner violence, sexual harassment, incest and female genital mutilation/cutting. An active bystander action is something that young people don’t involve themselves with. We emphasized on being an active bystander where you should be able to raise an alarm in case you witness someone being violated. That one action will be able to save that person who was about to be violated.

The issue of consent is something that also created a wide discussion with questions such as should I ask for consent from my wife or girlfriend? Why should I be arrested for having a relationship with a 16-year-old and they consented to it? Should we be arrested for having sexual relationship if we are cousins and we are all adults and consented? It was made clear that the law states that lack of consent qualifies one to have raped the other since there was no agreement. The Sexual Offences Act also defines incest as an act which causes penetration with a person who is to their knowledge, a relative.

“Why should I be arrested for having sex with a minor and what happens if she actually came to me? Nowadays its hard to know if someone is of age by looking at their body, people are having a good diet out here.” Participant said

At the end we all agreed that we have a role to play in ending sexual and gender-based violence. Some of key roles that we can play in ending sexual and gender based violence were :- continue creating more awareness on sexual violence among young people, not to be perpetrators, pushing the justice system to be accountable and follow the rule of law, engaging both women and men in these matters, raising your voice when someone is being violated such as someone having a relationship with a minor, not to a bystander of intimate partner violence and to always be careful since everyone is a potential perpetrator as well as a survivor. See you on Tuesday!

17Nov, 2022

Why You Should Attend the CIDP Forum?

*Participants during the Coffee Bar Session. Photo: Philip Papa*

With the coming County Integrated Development Plan public participation forum meant to happen on 18th November 2022 at the Mukuru Health Centre in Imara Daima, our Coffee Bar Tuesday focused on how we can package ourselves together with like minded people and have a 1 voice that shall propose projects to the county to be implement within our wards and constituency.

The County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) is a plan prepared by counties to guide development over a five-year period.The CIDP contains information on development priorities that inform the annual budget process for 5 years. The formulation of the CIDP is usually the first major task of a new county administration.

With participants coming from Kwa Reuben, Viwandani, Kwa Njenga and Kware wards, we got to share some of the challenges that should be addressed by the 2023-2027 County Integrated Development Plan. Through the discussion, we got to understand that the majority of the challenges we face cut almost across in all areas represented during the discussions. Some of the proposed projects raised during the discussion were street lights installation, inadequate drainage system, youth resource centre, creation of ECDE and TVETs, secure land tenure, markets, 24 hour running water, more personnel and medication in our hospitals, access roads, empowerment on groups that are working on environment sector, more empowerment on urban farming, relocation of ward admin office among others.

*Public Participation forum dates. Photo: Nairobi County*

We also shared some of the legal frameworks such as Constitution Of Kenya, County Governments Act 2012, Public Finance Management Act 2012 and Nairobi County Public Participation Act 2016 that promote and support the realization of public participation and communities being at the center of decision making. Article 1 of the constitution states that the power belongs to the people meaning, we the people have all the mandate to choose, propose and give priorities on what we feel would change our lives positively. Sections 87 to 92 and 115 of the County Governments Act, 2012 outline the principles of public participation.

We also emphasized that all these projects will not be implemented by us saying at the discussion. We must turn out in numbers and propose them during the formulation of the CIDP that shall be held on 19th November 2022. It’s only through public participation, communities are able to share their proposals on some of the projects that should be implemented in the communities. Through this, they are able to scrutinize every project and give their priorities. At no point should we have projects being imposed onto us. Keeping that in mind, if they are existing projects that need to be completed then they should be on the list of our priorities.

“Pia sisi kama communities lazima tukam pamoja and tuseme zile vitu zinatuaffect collectively unlike proposing vitu zinaaffect few of us. Pia lazima tukeep the government on toes in order to implement them.” Participants said

As communities, we must understand that public participation is a process and doesn’t end with you only proposing. There should be a series of follow ups from both parties especially from the community. This helps in tracking progress of the projects. As we all wake up on the 19th, we must keep in mind that the change we need has to be proposed during this formulation stage. Let’s propose first and wait for the next process which shall inform the implementation of the projects. As young people from Embakasi South, we shall be dropping memoranda on some of the projects that should be included in the CIDP for the betterment of our communities. Young people have always and will always be the change makers.

We are also calling young people from other counties to make sure they are part of the process. As young people, we have to show that we have improved and bring forgotten young people’s voices to the table. See you on Friday 19th at the Mukuru Health Center hall.

11Nov, 2022

Is COP27 Important?

*Participants during Coffee Bar Tuesday*. Photo: Philip Papa

With the COP27 conference happening from 6 November to 18 November 2022 in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt and hitting our newsroom every day, how many people from the community are aware of it and its importance to common mwananchi. Our #CoffeeBarDiscussion hosted Kevin Odongo who is an environmentalist and founder of Green Ambassadors who is also meant to be at the COP27 conference in Egypt.

COP27 which stands for Conference Of The Parties is the largest annual gathering on climate action that’s usually attended by heads of state, ministers, climate activists, civil society organizations and private sector. Kevin explained that the conference builds on some of the commitments made at the COP26 and brings new ones in order to deliver actions on climate. The first COP meeting was held in Berlin, Germany in March, 1995 and this year Egypt is hosting the 27^th conference since its inception.

Participants got to understand how the COP27 came into realization with so many questions such as why do they always meet with no outcomes? Why do they meet knowing together that the biggest gas emissions state heads are not there? Why do they always make commitments and policies that are not met or implemented? How is it of use to us if common mwananchi is represented by the same leaders flying to Egypt through planes?

Kevin Odongo shared that the commitments made there will not only help us as a country and also have mitigation and adaptation mechanisms for the future. In light of the current extreme heat, a National Adaptation Plan (NAP) which is a process that seeks to identify medium- and long-term adaptation needs has detailed approaches that we can adapt to reduce vulnerability, build resilience and adaptability, as well as incorporate climate adaptation into national policies and planning. Kenya already has its first plan on adaptation, and will help the government in mainstreaming climate change adaptation and mitigation.

“Ukiangalia had ice cubes siku hizi zinamelt haraka than before.” Participant said

Also, he emphasized that approximately half of the world’s population is ‘highly vulnerable’ to the effects of climate change, including floods, droughts, tsunamis, and storms, and that is the reason why as a community the COP27 is of so much importance to us. This year’s COP will focus more on mitigation, adaptation, collaboration and make a delivery of $100 billion per year to assist developing countries.

*Kevin Odongo during Coffee Bar Session. Photo: Philip Papa*

With all our leaders representing us in Egypt, it’s important for us to follow up on what’s happening since the outcome of these conferences will determine the next phase of this world. If there is any financial commitment, we should be able to understand and get a share of it.

The term Loss and Damage is not well known by most people, but here he explains it simply as the negative effects of climate change on society and the environment. There have been campaigns on #Pay4LossAndDamage where developing countries claim that developed countries have historical responsibility for climate change. They are calling for compensation from developed countries to help them address loss and damage that have already occurred and to minimize future loss and damage.

“As we push for climate mitigation and adaptation, there’s need to have more awareness and simplify and localize information” Kevin Odongo said

With the discussion touching more on what COP27 is focusing on, we also touched on what we as individuals can do in order to reduce the emissions that are contributed by human activities. Through the discussions, it was clear that we all have a role to play in making sure we save the planet. Some of the ways in which we can reduce emissions include ending the usage of fossils, powering your home with renewable energies, plant more trees, recycling, fly less or when need be, stop plastic pollution and drive cars that are climate friendly among others.

As Mukuru Youth Initiative, we believe in the power of having knowledge. It’s only through knowledge, that you are able to know what, how, where, when, why you need to do something. We continue to create spaces where information is shared for the betterment of individuals and communities. See you on Tuesday!

2Nov, 2022

Teen Pregnancy – What’s The Solution?

Narok County Ministry of Education reported that 741 school going children were impregnated and out of that number 409 were below 18 years. It’s good to note that the data shared is only for the girls who have attended different health facilities and there could be many other pregnant girls who are not counted because they have not been to the health centers. Mukuru hasn’t been left out or spared by this teenage pregnancy pandemic. There’s no data indicating the number of teenage pregnancies for Mukuru but we can tell that we have young mothers around. This week’s #CofffeeBarTuesday focused on some of the contributing factors that could lead young girls to be pregnant and get solutions on how we can continue protecting young girls.

Some studies indicate that 1 in every 5 teenage girls between the ages of 15-19 years has already given birth or pregnant with their first child. Kenya’s Ministry of Health reported 45,724 pregnancies among girls aged 10 to 19 in January and February 2022. This is worrying and needs a lot of attention from the government, stakeholders, communities and parents. Teenage pregnancies are a major challenge for socioeconomic development.

Through the discussion poverty, lack of access to sexual and reproductive health services, peer pressure from the family and friends, early sex initiation, sexual violence such as defilement/rape, harmful cultural practices such as child marriage, lack of goodwill from the government in prosecuting perpetrators, social media, technology- having too much accessibility to internet, drug abuse and substance abuse, societal pressure and recent demolitions in Mukuru Kwa Njenga were some of the contributing factors to the rise of teen pregnancies in Mukuru. In addition, lack of empowerment among young boys was cited as a reason why the numbers are rising.

*A pregnant school going pupil. Photo: Kwaela News Network*

“Young boys are not well informed on how to handle an empowered girl. It may happen that a girl visits her boyfriend and he does not understand how they can have safe sex. The girl will just accept whatever the boy decides, putting all of them at risk.” Participant said

Participants pointed out there are a lot of barriers in accessing sexual and reproductive health services. Some of the barriers are that Embakasi South doesn’t have any youth friendly center where young people can seek SRH services, the already existing private ones are not conducive to seek services and there’s less information about what kind of information someone can inquire from those centers.

In September 2021, part of Mukuru Kwa Njenga was demolished leaving residents homeless and not able to access basic services such as education, water, housing among others. Majority of private schools were demolished leaving thousands of pupils not attending school. With only 2 public schools, this couldn’t accommodate the majority of the girls and this led to many girls getting pregnant, dropping out, getting married and others using drugs.

With us understanding the problem, it’s easy to know how to get a solution. One of the solution raised by the participant was for the government to enforce its well outlined policies and laws addressing child marriage, defilement and access to highest attainable health. The government needs to work hand in hand with communities in prosecuting anyone having sex with children. For a relationship to work, there must be a boy translating to boys also needs to be empowered and with both genders empowered, it will be easy to curb teen pregnancies. As parents, you need to be watchful of what your children are searching online and who they talk or engage with. Sex education continues to be resisted by parents, religious leaders, political leaders and other stakeholders despite data showing that young people are engaging in sex earlier than in the past. Parents also need to be close to their children in order to share some of the changes our girls experience puberty.

For us to end teen pregnancies, it is essential that we confront the hard truths of the issue in an honest and open manner. It should be noted that teen pregnancies hinder our girls from maximizing their full potential, which impacts their socioeconomic development as they are unable to further their education or achieve their career goals. However, some do come back strong and achieve everything they ever wanted. We all have a role to play in ending teen pregnancies. A key component of the solution is making sure that those who commit teenage pregnancies face the full force of the law. Also, we must ensure that all pregnant girls go back to school as soon as possible. See you on Tuesday!