In a dusty schoolyard in rural Kajiado, I watched a group of teenage girls lean in as a facilitator explained how to use a sanitary pad. In the back row, three boys leaned on a windowsill, snickering quietly. Not one person turned to speak to them. That moment stayed with
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is often framed as a "cultural practice," but let's be honest—it's a practice deeply rooted in male control and power. While many arguments focus on tradition, community expectations, or even misguided notions of purity, the undeniable reality is that
Menstrual hygiene consists of all practices and conditions necessary to manage menstruation in a healthy, safe and dignified way. This includes; access to menstrual products, menstrual health education, clean water , access to healthcare and also disposal facilities. However, that’s not all. Menstrual hygiene is not just about clean and
Mark was 20 years old when it happened. In his 2nd year of study at the University, he was known for being loud, social, and always having a smile for everyone. Mark was the kind of person people couldn’t help but get drawn to. If you'd asked
My name is Rose Akinyi Otieno. I am a Community Health Nurse, a mother, wife, and proud grandmother. I was born and raised in Nakuru County, though my roots trace back to Siaya. Today, I run the Midtown Reproductive Health & Youth-Friendly Clinic in Nakuru Town, but this journey has
At 13 years old, Aluel, a school-going child, had her world dismantled. Aluel had heard whispers about “the cut”- the process of being a woman. She had never really given much thought to it until one night she found herself under the force of mature hands pinning her down
When the global COVID-19 pandemic struck, lockdowns and restrictions became a new normal. For many, these measures were a means of survival, but for countless girls across Kenya, the pandemic triggered an invisible crisis. Schools closed, movement was restricted, and vital support systems like teachers, mentors, and health workers became
Dorothy's Story of Courage, Compassion, and Community Empowerment One afternoon, a commotion at my gate led to an unforgettable encounter. Five women and two male soldiers had rushed in carrying a bundle wrapped in a large blanket. They laid it down in my reception. One of the women,
“I was young but I will never forget this traumatic ordeal that I went through...,” she begins. Mary was only about 8 years old when she underwent an experience that would be imprinted in her mind forever. It was back in 2009 or 2010; she can’t remember correctly, because
Jo, a 35-year-old mother of 4, had recently started experiencing pelvic pain and bleeding in between her periods. This wasn’t normal to her and having recently been widowed, she attributed this to grief-related stress or maybe, her approaching menopause. Between work and kids, she didn’t have time to
He dragged me into our bedroom, releasing my hand unceremoniously. His grip had left deep imprints on my wrist that were starting to swell. He locked the door behind him and turned to me. There was no way out. I saw his gaze turn dark, a muscle twitching in his
For most people, a school is a place of learning and friendship, a stepping stone towards realizing one’s dreams and ambitions. To some of us, it is the place, a constant reminder of the painful memories of the experiences we try hard to forget, the unconsented sexual touches, the
Gender-based violence (GBV) in Kenya is a pervasive issue, impacting individuals across diverse social and economic backgrounds. The Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS) 2022 reported that nearly 45% of women aged 15–49 have experienced some form of physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, with intimate partner violence
In today’s digital era, healthcare is evolving rapidly, and RHNK has become a trailblazer in transforming reproductive healthcare across Kenya. By integrating data-driven, patient-centered approaches and digital innovations, RHNK is reshaping how people access and understand sexual and reproductive health services, particularly for underserved populations. RHNK’s innovative model
Does it get to you? Yes, you! I'm talking to you—the one skimming through my words, pretending they’re just noise. Don’t act like you don’t hear me; I know my voice is coming through loud and clear. I may not have it all, but
“Should I terminate the pregnancy and pursue my dreams, or should I keep the baby and face the consequences?” Tamanisha, an ambitious 18-year-old from the informal settlement of Korogocho, finds herself at a crossroads, asking herself a question that countless young women face. Her internal struggle is compounded by the
"A Choice for All, Freedom to Plan, Power to Choose.” The theme is a perfect reminder which not only encapsulates the essence of reproductive autonomy but also the critical need for equitable access to reproductive health services. Celebrated annually on September 26, the World Contraception Day (WCD) shines a
“I wish I knew about ‘The Center’ just before completing high school. Maybe today I would have been on my way into becoming a reputable banker. Maybe I would have been a leader like Brenda wa RHNK, and not…” As if she was reading something from the wall, Linnet paused
For generations it's been a well-kept secret. And for even more generations, this secrecy has caused a great deal of harm. Viewed as a can of worms which needs a tight lid to remain closed always; a taboo that no one dares to utter lest you are tagged
For generations it's been a well-kept secret. And for even more generations, this secrecy has caused a great deal of harm. Viewed as a can of worms which needs a tight lid to remain closed always; a taboo that no one dares to utter lest you are tagged