NAIROBI, Kenya- Narok County has been ranked fourth in Kenya for teenage pregnancy, with a prevalence rate of 28pc, according to the 2022 Kenya Demographic Health Survey (KDHS).
This troubling figure places Narok behind Samburu (50pc), West Pokot (36pc), and Marsabit (29pc), all well above the national average of 15pc.
However, there is a silver lining: the county has made significant progress since 2014, when it had the highest teenage pregnancy rate in the country at 40pc. Now, a group of young mothers is leading efforts to change this narrative.
In Narok West Sub-county’s Sekenani village, young mothers have banded together to transform their lives through a community initiative known as Binti Shupavu.
This group provides a platform for teenage mothers to gain skills, generate income, and rebuild their futures after pregnancy. During a recent visit, dozens of young women were seen busy producing items like liquid soap, beadwork, and reusable pads.
One of these young mothers, 19-year-old Diana Kiminta, shared her journey. After becoming pregnant in Form Two, Diana was forced to leave school to care for her child.
“My grandmother struggled to support me, and at one point, early marriage seemed like the only option,” she recalled.
Luckily, Diana was introduced to Binti Shupavu, where she learned valuable skills that have given her hope for a better future. She even completed her national exams in 2023, thanks to the group’s support.
Similarly, 21-year-old Mercy Keleto was on her way to pursuing a diploma at the University of Nairobi when her education was abruptly halted by pregnancy.
“I had to drop out after my parents withdrew their support,” Mercy explained. She joined Binti Shupavu earlier this year and now participates in income-generating activities while receiving guidance and counseling.
The young mothers of Binti Shupavu aren’t just learning business skills—they’re building confidence and creating a support network.
Susan Wanjiru, the group’s leader, emphasized how important it is for these girls to come together. “We share our experiences and motivate each other to envision a bright future,” she said.
Wanjiru, who also became pregnant in Form Four, is now a driving force behind the group’s activities. She believes their collective efforts can help them achieve their dreams of becoming successful entrepreneurs.
The group has received backing from Population Services Kenya, funded by the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), which provides education on sexual and reproductive health, financial literacy, and even school fees for those wishing to complete their education.
With income generated from their products, which are deposited into a shared bank account and evenly distributed, the girls have a reliable way to support themselves and their families.
