Centre For Community Mobilization and Empowerment (CECOME) is a nonprofit organization based in Kenya which seeks to promote the dignity of vulnerable groups through advocacy, capacity building, and direct services. The organization’s vision is to promote a world in which girls are empowered, resilient, and have the opportunity to thrive in safe communities. Its programs are centered in the Kisii County of Kenya and include safe space clubs, school sensitization workshops, sexual and reproductive health education, and more. Annually, CECOME supports 1,500 girls through its programs and initiatives.
Access to quality education is a key challenge in Kisii County, and many obstacles prevent girls from accessing learning opportunities. Poverty is a significant factor, and Kisii is ranked among the poorest counties in Kenya. Many families are confronted with financial hardships which make it difficult to prioritize education expenses. Additionally, the absence of positive role models and limited social networks further isolates girls, depriving them of mentors, supportive peers, and community resources crucial for navigating challenges and staying motivated in their educational pursuits. As a result, many girls withdraw from school without completing their education, perpetuating a cycle of economic vulnerability.
With support from the Girls Opportunity Alliance Fund, CECOME will implement a comprehensive project to address the range of barriers which prevent adolescent girls from accessing education. The project includes interventions which will teach girls basic literacy skills, provide safe spaces for psychosocial support, and offer skills training to out-of-school girls who may not be able to return to formal schooling. The organization will also provide financial assistance for school fees, educational materials, and menstrual health products. Additionally, CECOME will host community engagement sessions to raise awareness about the importance of girls’ education and amplify efforts to reintegrate girls who have left school for reasons such as early pregnancies.
CECOME expects to directly support 300 adolescent girls through its project and reach an additional 1,300 community members through its advocacy and community engagement efforts. By addressing barriers such as economic hardship, cultural norms, and inadequate resources, the project seeks to enhance learning outcomes for girls who otherwise likely would not be able to attend school. Through its multifaceted approach, CECOME hopes to create sustainable change by empowering girls to pursue their education and personal aspirations with confidence and hope for their futures.
To learn more about CECOME, please visit the organization’s website and social media pages:
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