Celebrating the International Day of The Girl, 2025
Every year on October 11, the world comes together to celebrate the International Day of The Girl. This day is set aside to recognize girls’ rights and the unique challenges they face, especially those from marginalized communities and those living in crisis or conflict.
This year’s theme, “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis,” couldn’t be more fitting for the girls of Narok County, Kenya.
At Nayiari, we believe in the power of girls to lead change. That’s why we were honored to join hands with the Narok County Government, led by Her Excellency Agnes Ntutu, to celebrate this important day, first at Enkutoto Primary School on October 9, and later with other partners at Olderkesi Secondary School on October 11.
Standing Up Against Female Genital Mutilation and Teen Pregnancy
In her speech at Enkutoto Primary School, the First Lady spoke candidly about the dangers of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and teen pregnancy, two major issues affecting young girls in Narok County.
“Education is the key to unlocking the future. We must protect our girls from practices that rob them of their potential,” she urged.
This message hit home, especially because the Naroosura/Majimoto Ward in Narok South Sub-County records the highest number of teen pregnancies in the county.
Local administrators reinforced her message, reminding parents of the legal consequences of keeping school-age children at home or allowing them to participate in harmful cultural practices such as FGM. Teachers were also encouraged to report such cases to ensure every girl has a chance to stay in school and thrive.
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Inspiring Conversations at Olderkesi Secondary School
At Olderkesi, the celebration continued with vibrant discussions, workshops, and motivational talks, all centered around sexual and reproductive health and girls’ empowerment.
Alongside our partners Padcare, Matasaru Ntoyie Pastoralist Foundation, and the Kenya Model United Nations (KMUN), we held open and honest conversations with students about:
The importance of education
The negative impacts of early pregnancies and FGM
Believing in themselves and their ability to lead change
It was inspiring to hear girls speak up, ask questions, and express their dreams. The energy in the room was hopeful and determined. The girls connected deeply with the Nayiari team, whose members come from similar backgrounds and could relate to their challenges.
Narok County has an FGM prevalence rate of 51%, which means one in every two girls is affected. According to the 2022 FAWE report, the teenage pregnancy rate stands at 43%. Although these numbers are alarming, they are not permanent.
At Nayiari, we believe that change begins with inclusive dialogue, community education, and consistent support. We continue to engage men and boys, mothers and fathers, teachers and leaders, because everyone has a role to play.
Our Ongoing Commitment
Nayiari currently supports girls in four schools across the Naroosura/Majimoto Ward. Through our Sexual and Reproductive Health Programme, launched earlier this year, we are:
Educating both boys and girls on their rights and responsibilities, including sexual and reproductive health rights
Providing mentorship and guidance
Donating sanitary kits to help keep girls in school during their periods
Creating safe spaces for conversations about health, identity, and leadership
At both events, we donated sanitary pads to the girls — a simple yet powerful step to ensure no girl misses school because of her period.
Because Every Girl Deserves a Bright Future
As we reflect on this year’s International Day of the Girl, we’re reminded that every girl has the potential to lead change, not just in her community, but in the world.
We will continue to walk with them, listen to their voices, and break down the barriers that stand in their way. Together, we can create a country where every girl is safe, educated, and empowered to shape her own future.
