BONGA – LET’S TALK
This Adolescent Empowerment programme in East Africa restores self-esteem, dignity and a second chance to those that had lost hope and respect to self-reliant, confident individual making a contribution in the homes and communities
Most of the beneficiaries have either been to school and dropped out or have never gone to school for reason like, lack of school fees, cultural practices that disregard education for gender like girls or lack of access to education, among others.
Dialogue and life skills
Bonga which means “let’s talk” is a dialogue process to build confidence among the out of school illiterate adolescent girls and boys (13- 19 years) to develop their analytical capacity through life skills and vocational skills.
«I have learned that I have rights,
even if I'm a girl.»
- Joyce, Bonga-student
Identifying problems and solutions for change
A center is composed of 25 – 30 members with one animator who facilitates key discussions (Primary Health Care, rights of women and children, Environment, etc.), using a process that facilitates the girls/boys to identify problems in their communities and possible solutions to bring about change. The girls/boys pass on this knowledge through drama and songs presentations to the members of the community.
Vocational training
During the final vocational training phase, some participants receive vocational training, so they can create a job and earn their own money. Some join savings and loan groups, and invest what they have saved in tools, sewing machines, pets, etc. While others get help to re-enrol in school, so they can continue their education.