New Initiative Helps Nairobi Teen Mothers Return to School

A newly launched support program in Nairobi is helping teenage mothers reintegrate into education by offering affordable daycare and academic assistance. The ‘Tunza Bora Project’, spearheaded by the Organisation of African Youth Kenya (OAY) and funded by the World University Service of Canada (WUSC), will provide teen mothers in informal settlements with reliable infant care options. This frees them to resume their education or pursue work opportunities with a reduced burden.
The initiative builds on existing efforts in the county to remove barriers for young mothers seeking to return to school. During the International Day of the Girl Child celebrations, Nairobi City County officials announced a multi‑pillar strategy, including expanding childcare facilities, providing teen‑friendly sexual and reproductive health services, and offering vocational and technical training for young mothers. The program aligns with similar re‑entry policies supported by civil society actors. Notably, the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) runs the Tamatisha! project, which encourages schools to welcome back teenage mothers through dedicated clubs and entrepreneurial training.
Reaction to the initiative has been largely positive. Education advocates praise the move as a practical response to the educational disruption caused by teenage pregnancy, noting that access to daycare and support services can be decisive in keeping teen mothers in school. For many of these young women, the program represents not just a second chance academically, but a chance to build stable futures. At the same time, experts say that scaling such support will require sustained investment, community buy‑in, and strong monitoring to ensure quality daycare and learning outcomes.
Looking ahead, organizers hope to expand the project across Nairobi’s 17 sub‑counties. They plan to partner with local schools and youth centers to establish more day‑care facilities, integrate mentorship and re‑entry counseling, and provide certification training for teen mothers. If successfully scaled, the initiative could become a model for how urban counties in Kenya support adolescent mothers to continue their education without sacrificing their responsibilities at home.