The CADA Youth Development Project: Transforming Mbogwe District Through Youth Empowerment

In 2022, a dedicated group of rural youth attached to Kuyenda Initiative in Mbogwe District embarked on a mission to tackle the challenges facing their community, focusing on education and child protection. Among them were thirteen passionate students and nine ambitious young entrepreneurs, all driven by a shared goal of making a difference. Motivated by a sense of responsibility, the group decided to visit various institutions, including local schools, churches, and village governments, where they aimed to better understand the pressing issues affecting their community.

During these visits, they uncovered alarming issues—sexual violence and child labor, which particularly impacted young girls. This was a reality they couldn’t ignore, and they knew they had to act. Determined to bring change, the CADA team took their concerns to the community, raising awareness about the importance of self-awareness education and the dangers of child labor. They spoke passionately about the need to keep children, especially girls, safe and in school. The presence of mines in the area had exacerbated the situation, drawing children away from school and into labor, further impacting the already struggling education sector.

Despite the challenges, including a lack of cooperation from some due to identity and uniform issues, the young advocates pressed on. Their persistence paid off when the project was granted an extension, allowing them to deepen their impact and work toward even greater change. Through their efforts, the youth of Mbogwe District have become a beacon of hope, showing the transformative power of collective action. Their commitment not only raised awareness but also sparked real change, reminding everyone of the strength and potential of young people to address societal issues. The story of the CADA Youth Development Project stands as an inspiring testament to what can be achieved when empathy, resilience, and a shared purpose come together.