Kyarumba’s Young Mothers

Introducing the Rwenzori Young Mothers Association, one of the initiatives supported by the Omughisa Rwenzori Community Development Society:

Out of concern for the school dropout rate among girls in the village of Kyarumba, most due to early pregnancy, the Young Mothers Support Group was organized to encourage young mothers to return to school, complete school, and find or create employment that will support themselves and their children.

During the construction of the Rwenzori Hydro Power Project that coincided with the Covid-19 school closures, a number of girls were impregnated by the workers. After the project ended and the workers left, these young girls found themselves without any assistance: no land, no business, no money to care for their children. This led to family conflicts and, in some cases, a withdrawal of parental support. From this background, on 15 April 2021 we formed a support group with 7 young mothers. A year later, the group increased to 25, and, as of this writing, we have 62 members of this group. The group is self-selecting; there are no fees or means testing required.

Since forming this group, we have seen a remarkable mindset change among these young mothers, who can now imagine a more hopeful future for themselves and their children. The group has grown quickly as several older women, who were once young mothers themselves, have seen the value of the group and were eager to join. They serve as role models and mentors to the younger girls.