because they are at the center of deep-seated systemic marginalization in rural pastoralist communities like Kajiado, Kenya
Education
Gender norms prioritizing bride price over schooling collectively drive lower education completion and limit their life opportunities. | ~KDHS
Gender Justice
Persistent inequalities in access to resources, limit girls’ control over their bodies, reduce their chances to lead, and keep them from having equal power in society. | ~KDHS
Health
High FGM (~24%), teenage pregnancy (~22%), HIV risk, and poor water and sanitation, limit their health, autonomy, and opportunities. | ~KDHS, WHO
Education
Gender norms prioritizing bride price over schooling collectively drive lower education completion and limit their life opportunities. | ~KDHS
Gender Justice
Persistent inequalities in access to resources, limit girls’ control over their bodies, reduce their chances to lead, and keep them from having equal power in society. | ~KDHS
The Malkia Initiative is a youth- and women-led rural organization working to “crown every girl” by strengthening girls’ agency, voice, and choice through programs, evidence, and resource mobilization.
We support girls and youth with safe spaces, health services, mentorship, and education support so they can grow, stay in school, and lead change
We collect and share data and stories from communities to show what works and help leaders make better decisions for girls.
We raise funds, build partnerships, and provide tools so programs for girls have the support they need to succeed and grow.
