In a transformative initiative aimed at empowering young girls in Ukwala, Mr. Daniel Juma Omondi, the Country Director of the Global Peace Foundation Kenya and patron of the Dongruokdala Community-Based Organization (CBO), officially launched the Dongruokdala Girls Football Club.
This new girls-only football club caters to participants aged 13 to 18, offering mentorship, sports opportunities, and essential hygiene products, including free sanitary pads.
The launch event took place at Sigweng Karuoth Primary School, drawing local leaders and prominent supporters, including Canadian philanthropist and businessman Mr. Erick Omondi. Mr. Omondi pledged his ongoing support for the girls, highlighting the importance of nurturing their potential for future success. The club aims to address critical issues such as period poverty and early pregnancies, which significantly hinder girls’ educational opportunities in Siaya County.
Siaya County faces concerning statistics regarding teenage pregnancies, ranking fourth in Kenya with a prevalence rate of 20.9% among girls aged 15 to 19, according to the 2023 Demographic Health Survey. Many young girls struggle to attend school due to a lack of access to sanitary products, leading to higher dropout rates.
In response to these challenges, Dongruokdala CBO has stepped in to provide sanitary towels and sports equipment to girls in the Ukwala sub-county. The initiative seeks to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters educational attainment and personal growth.
“Teenage pregnancies have severely impacted the education of young girls in Siaya County. We believe that by engaging them in sports and providing essential sanitary products, we can help them stay in school and build a brighter future,” stated Daniel Juma Omondi.
The establishment of Dongruokdala Girls FC is a key element of this initiative, designed to keep girls engaged in constructive activities while promoting school attendance and reducing the incidence of teenage pregnancies.
While specific data on period poverty and school absenteeism in Siaya is limited, research indicates that inadequate access to sanitary products often results in increased absenteeism, compromising education. “Many girls feel shame and stigma when they cannot access sanitary pads, forcing them to stay home and miss valuable lessons. By providing these necessities, we ensure that every girl has the opportunity to learn,” emphasized Erick Omondi.
The football club and its associated tournaments serve not only as recreational activities but also as vital tools for empowerment. Parents and educators in the community have observed positive changes among the girls, including enhanced discipline and teamwork, which help steer them away from early pregnancies.
“This initiative has transformed the lives of many girls in our community. They now have renewed hope and self-confidence. The provision of sanitary pads is crucial in ensuring they don’t miss school, while the football tournament provides a positive outlet for their energy,” said Joyce Atieno, a parent from Ukwala-Karuoth village.
Milly Auma, one of the beneficiaries of the program, expressed her gratitude: “This program has given me hope and confidence. I no longer worry about missing school during my periods, and playing football has helped me stay focused on my future and my talents.”
The launch of Dongruokdala Girls FC marks a significant step toward creating a supportive environment for young girls in Ukwala, empowering them to overcome challenges and pursue their education with confidence.
