Over the years, Initiatives for Progressive Change (IfPC) has implemented numerous impactful projects that have transformed lives and communities in ASAL regions. Our completed projects reflect our commitment to empowering women and youth, fostering peace, promoting sustainable development, and addressing pressing social issues. Below are some of the notable projects we have successfully executed:
1. #SautiYaVijanaProject
This project aimed to amplify the voices of youth and promote social accountability in Saku Sub-County, Marsabit County. Through this initiative, IfPC addressed:
- Inadequate youth representation in public policy processes.
- Uncoordinated youth advocacy efforts at the grassroots level.
- Gaps in information and opportunities available to young people.
By creating platforms for dialogue and capacity-building, the project empowered youth to actively participate in governance, advocate for their rights, and drive positive change in their communities.
2. Creating Community Conversations on FGM
IfPC has been at the forefront of the fight against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), using community dialogue as a transformative tool. This initiative involved:
- Organizing conversations with women, youth, and elders to challenge cultural norms supporting FGM.
- Building networks of champions to advocate against the practice.
- Reaching over 3,500 individuals with tailored messages on the harmful effects of FGM.
Through these efforts, IfPC established the Marsabit County Anti-FGM Youth Network, which later became part of the national Youth Anti-FGM Network Kenya (YANK).
3. Network Building and Capacity Strengthening of Anti-FGM Champions
IfPC has successfully mobilized and empowered women and youth leaders to take an active role in ending FGM. This initiative:
- Strengthened the capacity of community champions to lead advocacy campaigns.
- Created sustainable networks of anti-FGM activists across Marsabit County.
- Fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility within communities to protect girls and women from this harmful practice.
4. Establishment of Saku Youth Assembly (SYA)
Recognizing the importance of youth inclusion in governance, IfPC established the Saku Youth Assembly (SYA) as a platform for meaningful engagement. The assembly:
- Provided a safe space for youth to articulate issues affecting them.
- Facilitated constructive dialogue between youth and duty bearers.
- Sensitized youth on their rights, roles, and opportunities in leadership.
The success of SYA has laid the groundwork for the establishment of the Moyale Youth Assembly (MYA) and the Marsabit Youth Parliament (MYP).
5. Jirime Peace Accord Project
This community-led peacebuilding initiative was instrumental in promoting social cohesion between the Borana and Gabra communities in Saku. The project:
- Focused on inter-village engagements to address conflict at the grassroots level.
- Encouraged open dialogue among village leaders, women, and youth from warring communities.
- Resulted in a shared understanding of the consequences of conflict and a commitment to lasting peace.
6. Mazingira Bora Kwa Chakula Bora Nyumbani Project
This project aimed to address climate-induced food insecurity through climate-smart agriculture. Key achievements included:
- Planting trees to increase vegetative cover.
- Promoting sustainable farming practices that enhanced household food security.
- Educating communities on the importance of adapting to climate change to build resilience.
7. Reproductive Health Outreach Project (R-HOP)
R-HOP enhanced knowledge of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) in Marsabit County. The project focused on:
- Promoting the uptake of SRHR services, including menstrual hygiene and HIV/AIDS education.
- Raising awareness about the dangers of FGM and early marriages.
- Empowering women and youth to make informed decisions about their health.
Legacy of Impact
These completed projects are a testament to IfPC’s unwavering commitment to creating sustainable change. Each initiative has left a lasting impact on the communities we serve, from empowering marginalized groups to fostering peace and improving livelihoods.
As we celebrate these achievements, we remain inspired to continue our mission of transforming lives and inspiring change. Together with our partners and communities, we will keep building a brighter, more equitable future.