In the Kwale and Kinango Districts of Kenya, the average age of brides stands at a mere 12 years. Despite the illegality of child marriage in Kenya, the practice remains deeply ingrained, frequently serving as an economic alternative for impoverished families.
Within the context of Joint Recommendation by CEDAW and the CRC, the Early Girl Child Marriage Project was initiated in March 2008 by the NGO Plan International. It envisioned to employ innovative approaches to safeguard girls from the illicit practice of child marriage.
Most specifically, the project aimed at altering the cultural practices which recurrently allow for child marriage, by working at societal level towards recognising and confronting HPs to their children.
The project brought together a consortium of diverse stakeholders, enhancing collaboration between policy makers, civil society organisations, local advocates, and health professionals. Before designing the correct action plan, an analysis of the cultural attitudes which perpetuate discriminatory norms was conducted, to establish an overall framework of action. The most positive outlook came from the cross-sectoral capacity building, regarded for teachers, school management committees and local leaders.
Evidence collected on the impact of the project shows how intergenerational dialogue forums facilitated by children heightened awareness of the harmful consequences of traditional practices, already paving the way for a mentality shift.
Additionally, the enhanced community-level support, has the potential to lead to more favourable attitudes towards girls’ rights. Duty bearers, such as teachers, have posteriorly exhibited increased commitment to combating early marriages, ensuring girls stay in school and complete their education.