“I never thought I would get another chance at education, but thanks to the Child Protection Team, I can now pursue my dreams.”
In Nancy’s community in the Talensi District, teenage pregnancy and child protection problems such as sexual abuse, exploitation and child marriage are all too common. When Nancy became pregnant before completing junior high school, she seemed bound to drop out and face an early marriage.
Through NABOCADO’s Food Security Project, Nancy and other girls were introduced to the community Child Protection Team, led by Vida Ayambila. Trained to protect and support children, Vida and her team know how important education is for breaking the cycle of poverty. They enrolled Nancy in their child protection programme, encouraged her to continue her education and helped her find a safe, supportive environment in which to raise her child.
Vida went further: she now helps to care for Nancy’s son, so that Nancy can attend a nearby senior high school and focus on her studies while her child gets the care and attention he needs.
“I am determined to make the most of this opportunity. With the support of the Child Protection Team and the Food Security Project, I know I can overcome the challenges and build a better future for myself and my child.”
By combining child protection with better nutrition, the project has given girls like Nancy a second chance at education and a safer place to grow up.
Part of the Food Security Project, funded by Kindermissionswerk ‘Die Sternsinger’, Germany.
To protect her privacy, we use only her first name and do not show her photo.
Story and photos: Moses Apana Apobona, NABOCADO Media & Communications.