Nelson Mandela said, “It is in your hands, to make a better world for all who live in it.” This has served as my inspiration.
In 2011, as a teenage activist in my first year of high school, I witnessed the pervasive nature of sexual and gender-based violence in the conflict-affected regions of Garissa County, Kenya. This experience inspired me to take action by igniting a fire within me. As a survivor of gender-based violence, I realized that it was essential to address the root causes of violence and discrimination against women and girls in order to promote lasting change. I embarked on a mission to enhance their safety, physical and mental health, overall well-being, gender awareness and pedagogy in conflict prevention and early warning systems with unwavering commitment.
Investing in Women and Girls Empowerment:
In 2012, I embarked on a journey of empowerment in Garissa, a predominantly patriarchal society, founding the first girl-led organization (INUA Girls Group). Realizing that empowerment is the key to breaking the cycle of violence, I focused on mobilizing the resources necessary for women and girls to flourish. I worked tirelessly through campaigns, workshops, and training programmes to enhance their self-esteem, knowledge, and skills. By providing them with access to their educational rights, I aimed to establish a society in which women and girls could assert their rights and lead fulfilling lives despite living in a society that hushes their voices. The lessons learnt from my earlier advocacy has enabled me to expand my horizons to the communities in the margin and to reach a global scale.
As the founder of, The Afnan Women Initiative (TAWI), an organisation devoted to the rights of pastoralist women and girls, I am profoundly appreciative of the unwavering support and dedication to our cause. Together, we are empowering these extraordinary individuals to realize their true potential and live lives of dignity and equality.
In the vast landscapes where pastoralist communities thrive, the challenges encountered by women and girls are often overlooked and underestimated. Yet, their resilience, fortitude, and sagacity are evident. Just like a branch extends and flourishes from a sturdy tree, so too does our society and our future flourish when we ensure that every girl and woman has the opportunity to thrive, inspiring us to work tirelessly towards a future in which their rights are recognized and respected.
However, our mission extends beyond the provision of resources and services. It represents the energizing power of education, which piques her interest and fuels her ambitions, allowing her to reach for the stars and leave her impression on the world. We are constructing a movement that amplifies the voices of pastoralist women and girls in order to advocate for their rights at all levels. We are cultivating a culture of inclusivity and gender equality by challenging harmful traditions and norms that impede their advancement. We are creating economic opportunities for women, allowing them to become self-sufficient and contribute to the prosperity of their communities. They share their experiences, aspirations, and ambitions with the knowledge that they are supported and valued.
Every action we take and every life we affect brings us closer to our vision of a world in which pastoralist women and girls are liberated from discrimination and injustice. Together, we are marching towards a bridge of transformation, breaking down barriers and unlocking the immense potential of pastoralist women and girls to create a future in which they can flourish, their rights are respected, and their contributions are celebrated.
My journey as an advocate for women’s rights has been both difficult and rewarding. I have witnessed the transformative force of collective action by focusing on preventing sexual and gender-based violence, promoting gender consciousness, and empowering women and girls. I have endeavored to create a world where women and girls are free from violence, discrimination, and inequality through my dedication, commitment, and passion. As I reflect on my experiences, I am inspired with optimism for a future in which gender equality is not merely a dream, but a reality for everyone.
And I hope upon a world where no more voices are hushed
But every voice is listened to with anticipation
I hope upon a world that cringes at the face of discrimination…
Where inequality is a vice and universal love is the new faith
And every girl has a smile upon her lips instead of suppressed tears.
And…..…To every life a chance; to breath, to live, to dream and to choose it’s destiny!!!!
