Ujamaa Africa
Geography:
AFRICA
Type:
GRANT
Mission
Preventing violence by empowering youth with life skills.
The Problem: Gender-Based Violence and Economic Disempowerment in East Africa
Across East Africa, gender-based violence and economic inequality continue to undermine the potential of women and girls. In Eastern and Southern Africa 42% of women will experience gender-based violence in their lifetime. Despite these challenges, many grassroots efforts aimed at prevention and empowerment remain underfunded and overlooked by traditional capital markets.
The Solution
Ujamaa Africa is leading a proven, community-driven response to these intertwined challenges. Founded in Kenya, Ujamaa focuses on preventing sexual violence and empowering youth—particularly girls—through an innovative blend of educational programming, rights training, and male allyship in Kenya and Malawi.
Their flagship program, “Your Moment of Truth,” is a school-based initiative that has reduced rates of rape and assault by more than 50% in schools and communities where it's been implemented. Ujamaa’s unique approach involves training both boys and girls—boys to become protectors and allies, and girls to develop confidence and assertiveness.
In parallel, Ujamaa supports survivors with economic empowerment programs, trauma-informed care, and vocational training to break the cycle of dependency and vulnerability.
Outputs
7,226 teachers trained
1,490,000 students trained
Outcomes
50% decrease in rape amongst girls in the program
54% of girls trained used the skills to prevent an assault
46% decrease in pregnancy related school dropouts of girls trained
74% of boys trained successfully stopped an assault
Ujamaa’s programs are research-backed, community-led, and culturally grounded. In partnership with global research institutions, Ujamaa has shown consistent success.
Ujamaa’s programs are research-backed, community-led, and culturally grounded. In partnership with global research institutions, Ujamaa has shown consistent success.
Your grant amplifies a model that is changing norms, strengthening communities, and safeguarding future generations.
To learn more or contribute, email us at impact@uicharitable.org and we can help you support this organization through your UI Charitable Donor-Advised Fund.