By Communications Team, Kenya (Province of Eastern Central Africa)
The simple yet powerful question “How Are the Girls?” sparked a global research initiative conducted across six countries that revealed the devastating impact of COVID-19 on girls and young women. Led by four international women’s religious congregations, including Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, the study documented how the pandemic heightened risks of violence, early marriage, and teenage pregnancy, while reducing access to education, digital resources, and mental health support.
In Kenya, where many girls were left behind during school closures and families struggled with economic hardship, these findings inspired concrete action. Our sisters and partners-in-mission transformed research into programs across three regions in the East African country, each tailored to local needs yet united in the mission to uplift and empower girls.
Digital Dreams Come True in Kitale
En Kitale, where our focus is on bridging the digital divide, we launched computer literacy training for girls excluded from online learning during the pandemic. Forty-four girls in Matisi Ward have gained vital digital skills, boosting their confidence and opening doors to education, employment, and leadership opportunities. Some have become mentors, extending the impact throughout their communities. To make empowerment sustainable, the program also provides nutritional support for over 5,000 adolescent girls in eight schools, linking nutrition and dignity, with academic success. The program goes beyond digital literacy. Thanks to a generous donation from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, we’ve created fish ponds that will equip families with knowledge and build sustainable income sources, thereby strengthening entire communities.
Building Strong Foundations in Ngong
Ngong hosts the Euphrasia Women Centre, which emphasizes rights education and advocacy. Established in 1992, it now supports women in both urban settlements and rural villages. Through 28 registered Self-Help Groups, nearly 300 women access microfinance, entrepreneurship training, and rights awareness. This has enabled women to achieve economic independence while supporting one another in collective action. For children, a mentorship program provides life skills and psychosocial support, directly addressing neglect and delinquency in vulnerable communities. The center also offers vocational training, equipping young people with skills in areas such as hairdressing and catering. Sixty students graduated in 2024, with many moving straight into employment, a vital step in addressing youth unemployment.
Healing Hearts and Minds in Embu
En Embu, our sisters and partners-in-mission are tackling mental health challenges and the vulnerabilities of young mothers. Launched in 2024, the Imarisha Dada project supports pregnant girls and teenage mothers through counseling, life skills training, healthcare, and family reconciliation. Peer groups foster mutual support, while the Annunciation Home offers temporary refuge and pathways back to education or work. The program also engages communities, broadcasting discussions on gender-based violence and wellbeing through Kimuri Radio, reaching thousands of listeners. In addition, a medical camp visit held in August has further expanded access to healthcare and raised awareness about reproductive health rights—addressing immediate needs while building long-term community capacity.
Transformation in Action
These programs demonstrate that when research informs action and compassion drives implementation, remarkable change occurs. Girls who once faced impossible barriers now lead successful businesses. Teenage mothers reconnect with families and return to school. Communities that once stayed silent about mental health now engage in open, supportive conversations. The success of these programs stems from strong partnerships with government agencies, local organizations, and international partners.
A Blueprint for Hope
The “How Are the Girls?” initiative demonstrates that faith-based organizations can respond effectively to complex social challenges. By combining rigorous research with compassionate action, community partnership with individual support, and immediate intervention with long-term development, these programs are building foundations for lasting change.
As these initiatives continue expanding, they stand as powerful examples of transformation in action. The question “How are the Girls?” is being answered with hope, empowerment, and sustainable change across Kenya.
Get Involved: Learn more about these life-changing programs by visiting www.rgs-ecap.org or following the Province of Eastern Central Africa’s social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, y YouTube).
Download the full How Are the Girls research report aquí:
