Feminist homegrown organisation Zamara Foundation (ZamaraFdn) has called on the government to immediately ban mandatory pregnancy testing in schools, terming the practice discriminatory and a violation of the dignity, privacy, and educational rights of young mothers.
In a statement issued on Friday, October 3, 2025, the organisation urged the Ministry of Education to review school policies and align them with national and regional human rights standards, including the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child.
Support for Adolescent Mothers
Beyond calling for a ban, ZamaraFdn is pushing for structured learning recovery programmes to help adolescent mothers continue their education after childbirth. The organisation recommends:
- Government funding for remedial programmes, catch-up classes, and flexible learning options.
- Regional and international support through financial and technical assistance.
- Clear national standards for school-based guidance and counselling services tailored to pregnant students and young mothers.
- Collaboration between the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Gender, and social protection agencies to provide psychosocial support for learners, families, and caregivers.
Tackling Dropout and Stigma
Despite existing laws, dropout rates linked to unintended pregnancies, expulsions, and stigma remain high. Zamara stresses the need for nationwide research and data collection to highlight gaps, strengthen advocacy, and inform targeted interventions.
Call to Action
The organisation insists that strengthening enforcement, raising awareness, and ensuring coordinated efforts across education, health, and social sectors are vital in translating Kenya’s legal commitments into tangible change for adolescent mothers.
“Kenya must support young mothers’ academic success and prevent further educational disadvantages,” ZamaraFdn emphasized.
