Adolescent Mothers in Nairobi's Informal Settlements: Situations, Challenges & Interventions
At WYCDO Kenya, we believe that understanding community realities is the first step towards creating meaningful and sustainable solutions. Through a partnership approach initiated by China House, and implemented at WYCDO level in collaboration with the Darren Hurt Foundation, this study was undertaken to better understand the lived experiences, challenges, and aspirations of adolescent mothers living in Nairobi’s informal settlements.
The study engaged 358 adolescent mothers across six informal settlements in Nairobi — Kibera, Mathare, Mukuru, Korogocho, Dandora, and Kawangware — using surveys, interviews, and case studies to explore key issues affecting their lives, including education, livelihoods, mental health, parenting challenges, social support, and future aspirations.
The findings provide valuable insights into the barriers adolescent mothers face and highlight the importance of integrated support systems that combine education opportunities, vocational skills training, economic empowerment, psychosocial support, child care assistance, and stronger community networks.
This report is intended to contribute to conversations among policymakers, development partners, community organizations, and stakeholders working towards restoring dignity, creating opportunities, and building brighter futures for adolescent mothers and their children.
