AMREF Launches Future4Binti Programme in Mandera to Fight FGM and Child Marriage

By Adan Mohamed - Reporter

May 25, 2026 - Amref Kenya has officially launched the Future4Binti Programme through an inception meeting that brought together government officials, development partners, community leaders, and stakeholders committed to advancing the rights and wellbeing of girls and young women.

The initiative primarily targets the prevention of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) and Child, Early, and Forced Marriage and Unions (CEFMU). It will also address challenges linked to harmful practices such as school dropout, unintended pregnancies, maternal health complications, and gender-based violence.

The Future 4 Binti Programme is a regional initiative set to be implemented across Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia under the 2026–2030 Focus Framework over a five-year period. The programme aims to advance gender equality and eliminate harmful practices affecting girls and young women.

Ibrahim Billow director Gender Mandera County noted that the programme is expected to strengthen community resilience and promote social transformation in Mandera County through increased protection of girls and young women from harmful cultural practices.

In Kenya, the programme will be implemented in ten counties including Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Marsabit, West Pokot, Narok, Samburu, Tana River, Migori, and Kajiado.

The programme is also expected to enhance access to education and improve school retention for girls through community sensitization and advocacy campaigns. In addition, it seeks to improve awareness on sexual and reproductive health rights among adolescents and local communities.

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Local leaders and partners further emphasized the importance of strengthening the capacity of institutions, community structures, and local leadership in preventing and responding to harmful practices affecting girls and young women.

Viola Ruto from Amref Health Africa noted that Future4Binti will also promote positive cultural and social norms that uphold gender equality and human rights while encouraging the active involvement of men, boys, religious leaders, and elders as champions of change within communities.

She added that the initiative is expected to contribute to long-term socio-economic development in Mandera County by empowering girls and young women to realize their full potential and participate meaningfully in society.

The Future 4 Binti Programme reflects a collective commitment among stakeholders and development partners to create safer, healthier, and more inclusive communities where every girl has the opportunity to thrive free from discrimination and harmful practices.