Access to culturally appropriate reproductive health services remains a major challenge for indigenous women in northern Kenya. In remote Rendille communities, taboos, distance from clinics, and a lack of culturally-sensitive services often deny women basic reproductive rights.
In 2024, PPI launched a reproductive health knowledge project with support from the Seventh Generation Fund to change this.
Empowering Women Through Local Knowledge
Instead of imposing foreign health models, PPI rooted this initiative in indigenous knowledge systems. The approach included:
- Documenting traditional maternal care practices
- Hosting women-led peer education groups
- Creating culturally safe spaces to discuss menstruation, childbirth, and postnatal care
This approach resonated deeply, particularly among elder women, who became mentors to younger generations.
Key Outcomes
- Increased confidence among women in seeking antenatal care
- Improved understanding of menstrual hygiene and maternal nutrition
- Strengthened community bonds through shared storytelling and healing practices
Voices From the Field
“Now I know what is normal and what needs a health worker’s help. But I also learned from my grandmother how herbs help with cramping and how to care for the newborn.” – Mariam L., Loglogo resident
PPI’s reproductive health project proves that empowerment comes from within the community. By blending modern health practices with traditional wisdom, it creates an inclusive model that protects women’s rights while preserving their cultural dignity.
