adminJune 16, the International Day of the African Child, is a time to reflect on the rights of children across the continent and the progress made in securing their future. This year’s theme, “Planning and Budgeting for Children’s Rights: Progress Since 2010,” calls on all of us to evaluate how far we’ve come in ensuring that children not only survive but thrive.
At Dandelion Africa, we believe that investing in children is one of the most transformative decisions a community can make. Since 2010, we have worked with schools, parents, and local leaders to create safe and inclusive environments for learning—especially for girls.
Through our Girls for Leaders, Boys for Change program, we have reached over 15,000 students in Kajiado, Baringo, Nakuru, and Narok Counties. In areas where Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and early marriage remain prevalent, we go beyond awareness by equipping students with leadership, life skills, and advocacy tools. This helps them speak up for their rights and become agents of change.
By engaging over 7,000 boys and men, we are shifting harmful gender norms and encouraging shared responsibility in supporting and protecting girls. Boys are becoming allies, leaders, and champions of equality.
One powerful example is Julius Baraza, a student at Kampi ya Moto Comprehensive School who joined the Boys for Change club in 2024:
“Before I joined the club, I couldn’t even talk in front of a crowd. I had no confidence. But now I can speak in public because I’ve gained self-esteem. We were also taught about menstruation. Before, boys would laugh at girls, but now we support them. I’ve learned a lot about girls’ rights, and I’m proud to speak up for them.”
These shifts reflect the impact of inclusive education and youth-led transformation.
In rural areas, students face significant barriers to quality education, resources, and safe learning spaces. Through mentorship and training, we have empowered over 400 Student Peer Educators using our Advocacy Toolkit, enabling them to lead Community Action Plans in their schools and advocate for improved learning environments.
Our Young Voices Change Summits in Baringo and Nakuru Counties gave students the opportunity to engage directly with leaders and raise critical issues affecting their education. These forums led to the signing of actionable commitments by local duty bearers, affirming their responsibility to address students’ concerns.
The Impact So Far:
96% of girls transitioned to the next level of education in 2024, up from 45% in 2014.
36 communities have been declared 100% FGM-free.
Girls’ agency improved by +6.34 (statistically significant) within just 10 months.
This is the progress we celebrate. But we also acknowledge that much more needs to be done. Sustainable and inclusive planning and budgeting for children’s rights must remain a priority.
Children are not just beneficiaries—they are essential partners in development.
As we commemorate the African Child today, let us continue to invest in their dreams, amplify their voices, and stand with them as they build a more just and equal future.