By Jake Marwa, Founder & Team Lead

In Kisii County, gender inequality remains a pressing issue, deeply rooted in cultural norms and systemic barriers that hinder the empowerment of adolescent girls and young women. Recognizing these challenges, I founded Forever Africa Power Dada, a community-based organization dedicated to advancing gender justice by creating safe spaces, providing essential resources, and advocating for the rights of marginalized individuals.

At Forever Africa Power Dada, we take a holistic approach, ensuring that young women and marginalized groups, including survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), persons with disabilities (PWDs), and rural communities, have the tools and opportunities to thrive.

We provide comprehensive SRH education and healthcare, ensuring that young women understand their rights and have access to essential services. We advocate for girls’ education by supporting those at risk of dropping out due to financial constraints, pregnancy, or cultural barriers. Through skills training and livelihood support, we empower young women to achieve financial independence and break the cycle of poverty.

Despite progress, deep-rooted cultural norms continue to limit opportunities for young women, while stigma around sexual and reproductive health discourages many from seeking help. To address this, we actively engage local leaders, elders, and communities in open dialogues, fostering support for gender equality.

By establishing safe spaces, we provide girls and young women a platform to share experiences, seek mentorship, and access resources without fear of judgment. Additionally, we partner with local organizations, government agencies, and donors to overcome financial and logistical barriers, ensuring the sustainability of our programs.

Through various initiatives, Forever Africa Power Dada has made a tangible impact in the lives of countless young women and marginalized individuals.

Recognizing the lack of awareness and support for children with autism, we partnered with Dazzling Centre to launch the Rising Star Program. This initiative provides tailored support, educational resources, and social integration opportunities for children with autism, fostering inclusivity within the community. One of our biggest successes has been increasing awareness and reducing stigma surrounding autism. Families who once felt isolated now receive the support they need, while schools and community leaders are more committed to creating inclusive environments.

Catherine, a teen mother with a disability, faced financial constraints that nearly prevented her from continuing her education despite excelling in her KCPE exams. Through our efforts, we secured funding for her school fees and provided her with support to continue her education. Today, Catherine is thriving academically and has become an advocate for the rights of children with disabilities. Her story is a powerful reminder of what is possible when communities come together to uplift marginalized individuals.

Teenage pregnancy is a major issue in Kisii County, often derailing young girls’ education and future prospects. The Tulia Dada mentorship program addresses this challenge by providing guidance, emotional support, and life skills training to adolescent girls. This initiative has contributed to a significant reduction in teenage pregnancies by supporting young women to make informed choices. Through mentorship, girls gain confidence, stay in school, and pursue their dreams, breaking free from societal pressures that often lead to early pregnancies.

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and GBV remain persistent issues in many rural communities. Our Beyond the Surface program actively challenges these harmful practices through awareness campaigns, community discussions, and collaborations with local leaders. By educating communities about the severe consequences of FGM and GBV, we have empowered girls to stand up for their rights and inspired a shift in attitudes, leading to greater protection for at-risk individuals.

Inclusivity and self-expression are powerful tools for empowerment. The Dreams Are Valid Project provides a platform for marginalized individuals, especially young women, PWDs, and key populations, to showcase their talents through a fashion show that celebrates diversity. By breaking stereotypes and challenging societal norms, this initiative fosters a sense of empowerment and recognition for underrepresented communities. It also sparks meaningful conversations about equity and inclusion, encouraging society to embrace and uplift all voices.

The journey toward gender justice is long and filled with challenges, but the impact of our efforts is undeniable. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, Forever Africa Power Dada is transforming lives and creating a more equitable society. Our vision is clear: a future where every young woman and marginalized individual in Kisii County and beyond has the freedom, resources, and support to pursue their dreams. By continuing to challenge injustices and foster inclusiveness, we move closer to making gender justice not just an ideal, but a reality for all.