Maasai girls take up self-defense as protection from sexual abuse and early marriage

In KILGORIS, Kenya, Maasai girls at a boarding school are taught combat techniques to protect themselves from early marriage and female genital mutilation, with the Enkakenya Centre for Excellence offering education and a safe haven for at-risk teens. Despite Kenyan laws prohibiting these practices, they are still common in rural areas due to poverty and lack of education, leading to high rates of gender-based violence. The center also partners with I’m Worth Defending to teach self-defense skills, empowering girls to speak up against violations and fight off threats, ultimately inspiring them to pursue their dreams and uplift their community through education and technology.

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