Written by Kabibi Robert, Field Officer, Funzo Project in Kilifi
Dama is a 20-year-old young mother living in Kilifi, Kenya, from a family of nine.
Living on the coast, her father is a seasonal fisherman, and her mother stays at home to care for the family. Despite their best efforts, life growing up was a constant struggle, and her family rarely had enough to eat. Completing her primary education was an uphill battle, as she and her siblings were frequently sent home because they couldn’t afford the school fees. Yet she prevailed, completing her primary school education in 2023.
As she grew older, Dama’s life became even more challenging. Her parents were increasingly unable to provide for her basic needs, including clothing, sanitary towels, and other necessities. She remembers the shame of having to ask other girls for sanitary towels during her period each month. Eventually, people in the community knew her as “omba omba girl” – the girl who is always borrowing from others, even though her parents are alive. “The pain was too much for me. My heart was bleeding, and my tears were uncontrollable. People called me dirty names, including shameless girl, dirty girl, and poor girl.”
The insults damaged her confidence. With no hope of joining high school and too much idle time, Dama fell under peer pressure. She started sexual activities to cater for some of her basic needs, and she ended up getting pregnant. She gave birth to a beautiful baby girl at just 19 years old.
Sometimes the smallest thing makes the biggest difference
In 2025, Dama was selected for CFK Africa’s Funzo project for teenage mothers, which provides a support network for young mothers who often feel completely alone. Dama began attending weekly mentorship sessions on leadership skills, personal hygiene, and baby care, and she slowly started to heal.
“My life has transformed. Today, I can access sanitary towels at CFK Africa’s Menstrual Hygiene lab. The lessons on personal hygiene have enabled me to adopt healthy practices that keep my body fit and glowing. I have gained confidence.”
The project also enrolls mothers in career training programs for whom re-enrolling in secondary school is not an option, providing pathways to economic resilience and setting teenage mothers and their babies up for success.
Dama enrolled in the local Roka Vocational Training Center for hairdressing and beauty therapy. “I am honored to be part and parcel of CFK Africa’s family. I can’t wait to make my own money through the skills gained to take care of my child and change my story.”
Beyond hairdressing, Dama has enjoyed connecting with other young mothers in the Funzo project and now feels part of a community. She believes that one day, she will become a great motivational speaker, and her journey shows that she is well on her way!
