2019-Temwa

Temwa

Nominated by Plan International

All 2019 Children’s Peace Prize Nominees

Temwa had to drop out of school at the age of 9 due to the separation of her parents and poverty. She moved to a different town with her mother, which was a struggle as they had a very low income. Temwa had no plans of going back to school because she had to help her mother with household activities. However, she was identified by a community volunteer, who was helping out with basic education sessions. The volunteer encouraged Temwa to resume her education and, as a result, she was considered for complementary basic education provided by the Ministry of Education. Temwa established two clubs that mentor girls on children’s rights and the importance of education. She has also sensitized parents and leaders on cultural barriers that stop girls from exercising their inherent rights. Temwa started to mobilize other girls that had dropped out of school and the clubs she founded now have more than 100 members. She wants to continue with her advocacy so that more girls can defend their rights.