In Kenya, many households are forced to make two grueling trips daily to collect water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. Women and children often walk over 3.4 kilometers to fetch gallons of water, a journey that takes several hours each day. This task, essential for survival, is fraught with significant risks, including the threat of human predators, such as abduction or rape, as well as dangers from wildlife.

In many parts of Africa, harmful cultural practices persist, including the belief that it is acceptable to kidnap and sell girls into sexual slavery, subject them to female genital mutilation (FGM), or take child brides. To end this cycle of violence and exploitation, a profound cultural shift is needed. This shift must focus on educating men about the rights and dignity of women, while simultaneously empowering and strengthening the autonomy of girls and women. Only through this dual approach can we create lasting change and ensure the safety and well-being of future generations.