Young Women for Awareness, Agency, Advocacy, and Accountability(YW4A)
Preface
Since 2021, the National Independent Church of Africa (NICA) has been implementing the YW4A (Young Women for Awareness, Agency, Advocacy, and Accountability) program in Meru County. This faith-based initiative is rooted in the belief that young women are key agents of change in promoting gender justice, transforming harmful social norms, and fostering inclusive leadership within communities and the Church. YW4A is part of a broader global movement that empowers young women aged 18–30 to claim their rights, express their voices, and actively participate in leadership. The program also engages faith leaders and communities in challenging systems of inequality and addressing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) through transformative dialogue and advocacy.
Objectives of the Program
- To strengthen young women’s leadership, agency, and voice in church and community structures.
- To challenge harmful gender norms and promote positive masculinities through faith-based approaches.
- To foster interfaith dialogue and collaborations in promoting gender justice and social inclusion.
- To build the organizational capacity of NICA to advance gender equality in policy and practice.
- To promote sustainable advocacy on SGBV and gender justice through strategic partnerships.
------Activities-------
Interfaith Dialogues
NICA has hosted respectful and inclusive interfaith forums bringing together leaders and believers from various faiths to explore shared values on human dignity, peace, and justice. These platforms foster open discussions on gender roles, SGBV, and the responsibility of faith institutions in promoting equality.
Transforming Positive Masculinities Community Dialogues
These sessions engage community members in safe, age- and gender-sensitive spaces. The dialogues are designed to challenge toxic masculinity and promote respectful, inclusive gender roles:
Groups consist of young men, young women, older men, and older women, each meeting for one-day sessions lasting 3–4 hours.
Facilitated by trained Trainers of Trainers (TOTs) from the church.
Topics include Biblical perspectives on masculinity, gender justice, and tools for non-violent conflict resolution.
The sessions are interactive, empowering men and boys to be champions of change in their homes and communities.
Advocacy and Organizational Capacity-Building
NICA has strengthened its internal systems to effectively advocate for gender justice. Key initiatives include:
Training clergy and staff on gender mainstreaming, SGBV response, and human rights.
Developing and adopting a comprehensive Gender Policy.
Equipping young women with skills in leadership, advocacy, and media engagement.
Partnering with local and national media to increase visibility and dialogue around women’s rights and SGB
Gender Policy Development and Implementation
NICA has developed a robust Gender Policy that guides all operations, programs, and leadership structures within the church.
Increase in Young Women’s Leadership
There has been a notable rise in the number of young women (ages 18–30) assuming leadership roles in church committees, youth ministries, and decision-making forums.
Enhanced Media Advocacy
The church has actively engaged in radio programs, social media campaigns, and community forums to raise awareness about gender justice and SGBV.
Establishment of a Young Women’s Department
A dedicated department has been created to provide a safe space for young women to gather, share, lead, and receive support on SGBV-related matters and leadership growth.
Strengthened Partnerships
NICA has collaborated with both national and international women’s rights organizations, gaining valuable support in program design, advocacy, and training.
Partners
