Gender Equality and Inclusive Education for Every Child

APID is dedicated to promoting the rights, safety, and well-being of children while advancing gender equality. Our mission is to create an environment where children are protected from abuse, exploitation, and neglect, where every child, regardless of gender, is empowered. We recognize that education is more than just access to school; it is about fostering a space where children feel valued, protected, and encouraged to explore their full potential.

Despite progress in recent years, child protection and gender inclusion remain significant challenges in Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia due to deep-rooted cultural norms, limited resources, and ongoing socio-political instability. In Kenya, child marriage is still prevalent, with approximately 23% of girls married before the age of 18, particularly in rural and pastoralist communities (UNICEF, 2023). In Somalia, the situation is more severe, with 45% of girls married before 18, and a lack of legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms perpetuates child labor, early marriage, and violence (UNICEF, 2022). Ethiopia also faces similar issues, with 40% of girls married off before reaching adulthood, and gender-based violence remains widespread, affecting 1 in 3 women (Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey, 2021). These gender inequities often intersect with child protection concerns, as vulnerable girls are at greater risk of abuse, trafficking, and exploitation.

“Globally, an estimated 12 million girls are married before the age of 18 each year, and millions of children, especially girls, are denied access to education, healthcare, and protection due to discriminatory practices.”

Investing in Girls, Nurturing Talent & Innovation.

APID aims at breaking the barriers by championing initiatives like IGNITE, an internally funded project that provides mentorship, innovation-driven learning, and access to opportunities that inspire girls to dream big and realize their visions.

Why Girls’ Education Matters.

Girls who receive an education are more likely to pursue their ambitions, contribute meaningfully to society, and shape the decisions that impact their lives. They gain the skills to thrive in diverse fields and the resilience to overcome systemic barriers.

When we invest in girls’ education, we see transformative results:

• Increased economic growth for communities.
• A reduction in child marriage and teenage pregnancies.
• Enhanced leadership and decision-making opportunities for women and girls.
• A stronger, more inclusive society for all.