Unicaf, in partnership with Terre des Hommes (Tdh), recently concluded a vital Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative aimed at supporting girls who have survived gender-based violence (GBV) in the Kakuma refugee camp. The initiative, conducted from 12th to 15th August 2024, addressed the urgent needs of these vulnerable girls, providing them with essential supplies, educational support and a platform to share their experiences.
The Kakuma refugee camp, managed by UNHCR and supported by various NGOs, is home to a large number of refugees who have fled conflict and persecution from neighbouring countries. Among these are young girls who have experienced severe sexual violence, leading to significant physical, emotional and educational disruptions. The CSR initiative by Unicaf and Tdh aimed to alleviate some of these hardships by supplying critical items such as hygiene products and bedding, while also promoting educational opportunities to ensure the girls could continue their schooling despite the challenges they face.
A highlight of the initiative was the Children’s Assembly, organised on the second day at the Cradle Tented Camp Hotel. This assembly served as a vital platform for children from marginalised communities, particularly from Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) regions like Kakuma, to voice their concerns and aspirations. The assembly provided these children with a direct line of communication to decision-makers, allowing them to influence policies and programmes that affect their lives.
During a stakeholder meeting, the Unicaf team presented its ongoing initiatives related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular focus on SDG 4: Quality Education. Unicaf’s commitment to offering scholarships and educational opportunities to underserved populations, especially the refugee community in Kakuma, was a key point of discussion. The team emphasised the transformative power of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and violence that many camp residents face, a message that resonated strongly with other NGOs in attendance.
Unicaf and Terre des Hommes remain committed to supporting the girls of Kakuma and will continue to work alongside local NGOs, international organisations and community leaders to develop long-term solutions that address the ongoing challenges faced by this vulnerable population.
