FOR GIRLS AGED 10-12

Providing girls with information on SRH at an early age

To equip vulnerable adolescent girls aged 10-12 with health, social and economic tools and assets. This project is implemented in 10 districts of Northern and Western Rwanda.

Background

Adolescent girls in Rwanda encounter numerous challenges to their sexual and reproductive health and rights they transition into adulthood. They are at risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, unplanned pregnancies and being victims of gender-based violence. Statistics indicate 16% of pregnant girls aged 15-19 are HIV+ and those ages 15-24 are 5 times more likely than boys to be infected with HIV. This vulnerability may lead to increased maternal health risks, unsafe abortions, low self-esteem and result in limited educational and employment opportunities.


Providing girls with information on SRH at an early age, and equipping them with social and economic tools – leadership skills, education and career development opportunities – could enable them to make smart decisions about their future. The project targets the most vulnerable girls identified through a vulnerability mapping exercise in 10 districts of Rwanda.

A district supervisor was recruited in each of the 10 districts to oversee implementation of the project. Young women mentors are selected to train beneficiaries in a youth friendly environment called ‘safe spaces’. 

Project duration

• 2014 - 2016 

Partners

• Donor: Department for International Development & Nike Foundation
• Partners: MOH, districts, Girl Hub

Progress to date in all 10 districts: 

• 10 master mentor trainers trained 
• 320 girls mentors selected 
• 10 district supervisors trained
• 160 safe spaces identified
• 4,077 girls aged 10-12 years from 10 districts are empowered with social, economic and health Assets.
• 320 mentors are trained in facilitation skills and program content.
• Community understands and owns the program. They consist of: 8,154 parents, 46 sector leaders, 160 safe spaces representatives and 10 district authorities.