The issue of Sexual and gender based violence and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) has been a major concern globally for many years, particularly in developing countries where access to quality healthcare services is a challenge. Adolescent girls and young women, especially those in marginalized communities, have been the most affected by this challenge, with limited access to SRHR services and information. It is against this backdrop that Raise Your Voice was founded. Raise Your Voice is a community-based organization that was established with the primary aim of advocating for SRHRJ, S/GBV policies and access to services, including safe abortion, for adolescent girls and young women including the marginalized (queer communities), gender equality and equity, social economic justice.The lack of access to SRHR services and information has contributed to high maternal mortality rates, unwanted pregnancies, and unsafe abortions, among other negative consequences. Adolescent girls and young women in marginalized communities are at greater risk due to poverty, lack of education, and inadequate healthcare facilities. They face numerous challenges, including stigma, discrimination, and cultural beliefs that inhibit access to SRHR services and information.
Raise Your Voice recognizes the need to address these challenges and the importance of empowering adolescent girls and young women to make informed decisions about their SRHR. The organization seeks to provide comprehensive and accurate information on SRHR challenge gender stereotypes to eradicate SGBV and advocate for the rights of adolescent girls and young women to access SRHR services and policies. This is achieved through community-based programs, awareness creation, and advocacy. The organization's programs focus on providing information on SRHR and creating safe spaces for adolescent girls and young women to discuss and share experiences. Raise Your Voice also work with healthcare providers to improve the quality of services provided and advocate for the inclusion of SRHR in national policies and programs. Raise Your Voice is committed to promoting equity and ensuring that all adolescent girls and young women, regardless of their socio-economic background, can access quality SRHR services and information without stigma, discrimination or fear. The organization believes in collaboration and works with like-minded organizations and individuals toward a common goal of achieving SRHR for all.
5000 beneficiaries reached by Raise Your Voice programs.
20 SGBV survivors supported for relocation, psychological counseling and legal protection.
30 young advocates trained on policy advocacy.
Quarterly SGBV intergenerational dialogues and campaigns.
80 adolescents and young people mobilized and activated including drafting memo, petition and short videos for advocacy on National Adolescents and Sexual Reproductive Health Policy Kenya.
Targeted 5 national policies on SRHR in Kenya and 1 East Africa SRHR Regional bill.
30 Faith Leaders in the EAC region sensitized on SGBV and SRHR and memorundum adopted to influence regional SRHR bill.
Convenor of EAC regional communication Taskforce leading and coordinating over 60 CSO’s in 6 Member states.
Over 40 publication of opinion editorials shaping public debates on SRHR.
10 value clarification and attitude transformation trainings on abortion and LGBTIQ conducted for community members including interfaith leaders.
Over 40 digital campaigns convened, 25 achieved trending status achieving over 10 million impressions.
Active in global solidarity spaces including Women Deliver, Women Human Rights Defenders in Geneva, CSW, UNCSOs conference.