Dancing, acrobatics and boxing for the vulnerable children of Nairobi
Context
In Kenya, 46.1 % of the population lives in slums (UN-HABITAT, 2018). The children living in these ghettos are mostly orphans or from single-parent families. They have limited options for furthering their education. They see the prospect of their studies challenged by various constraints, notably gender-based violence, access to menstrual care products for the girls, the lack of safe spaces for physical activities, the lack of government-granted allowances, and insecurity. The latter groups drop out of the school system out of a total lack of self-confidence and growth.
Faced with such constraints, the Elimu Project is attempting, through its sport-based programme to improve the children of the slums’ well-being and education.
Goals
- Improve the mental health of the youngsters living in both Kibera and Mathare;
- Improve school results by arousing the children’s curiosity and promoting holistic learning and social intelligence;
- Promote gender equality;
- Release the youngsters’ anxiety and forestall their violent behavior.
Activities
- Ballet, modern and African dancing lessons;
- Lessons in gymnastics, balancing act, lifts, and aerial figures;
- Self-defence lessons for the girl in case of sexual assault;
- «Advanced» boxing classes for both the girls and boys who have already practiced the sport.
Impact
- 585 beneficiaries, that is 462 children, 84 partner teachers, 16 volunteers, 15 community leaders, 8 Elimu Project employees;
- 80% of the beneficiaries shall build greater capacity to manage conflicts and stress;
- 80% of the children shall improve their school results, as much as their ability to concentrate and social skills;
- 80% of the beneficiaries shall be testifying to fewer violent incidents occurring between them.