On International Women’s Day 2026, the focus is on equality and self-determination for women worldwide. In Nyabondo, Kenya, this is exactly what is happening: the meeting room of the St. Monica Village widows’ cooperative is filled with young mothers – most of them between the ages of 15 and 18 – and their babies. Some of the youngest are sleeping peacefully in their mothers’ arms or on a cozy blanket on the floor. Meanwhile, the women listen attentively, share experiences, and ask questions. A safe space is created here, supported by solidarity among women – and by the conviction that community is stronger than stigma.
For many girls, early pregnancy meant dropping out of school, social stigmatization, and the loss of family support. At the same time, widows in their community also experience social isolation. The widows’ cooperative project brings both groups together. Since November 2024, the widows have been supporting young mothers with counseling, monthly seminars, and workshops. Topics such as mental health, family planning, menstrual hygiene, and self-determination are the focus. Thirty to fifty young women regularly participate with their babies. Over 200 young mothers have already been reached. Dentists for Africa provides financial support for the project.
Helping people help themselves – practical and empowering
An important component is the joint production of reusable cloth sanitary pads and baby diapers. This reduces running costs, improves hygiene, and creates opportunities for generating income. Above all, however, the young women experience self-efficacy: they learn, create, and support each other.
The community helps people to see stigmatization not as a personal failure, but as a social problem—and to grow from it.
On International Women's Day, this project shows that change happens when women listen to each other, share knowledge, and take responsibility for one another.
👉 Support the Widows Project and young mothers in Kenya. Every donation strengthens self-determination, education, and future prospects.