15/11/2025
More than 60 young mothers aged 13 to 26 gathered at a hotel in Embu County on Friday for a day-long team-building and empowerment retreat coordinated by Rev. Fr. Dr. Henry Kathuri of the Catholic Diocese of Embu.
The event aimed to restore confidence, offer psychosocial support and remind the girls—many of whom have faced rejection—that motherhood at a young age does not end their future.
Fr. Kathuri, a priest and psychologist, urged families and communities to offer the girls love instead of stigma.
He noted that many were taken advantage of, yet still chose life for their children.
“These are children who need pillars. Let us not reject them. Let us love them, guide them and help them pick up the pieces. Their future is still bright,” he said.
The retreat was part of Imarisha Dada, a program run by the Good Shepherd Sisters in Embu.
According to Sr. Jane Wainoi, the initiative began in 2024 to support young mothers from the Karurina area in Embu West Sub-county.
The program offers life skills training, psychological support and alternative livelihoods for those unable to return to school.
Through Imarisha Dada, the girls learn hairdressing, beauty, tailoring, catering and small-business skills under apprenticeship.
“We are happy because they are gaining back their self-love and believing in themselves,” Sr. Jane said.
She appealed to parents to forgive, support and guide their daughters instead of pushing them away.
She added that the sisters work with partners and psychologists to ensure holistic support and also run positive-parenting sessions for the wider community.
Participants of the program say it has transformed their lives. Davine Murugi, one of the beneficiaries, said she had struggled with self-hatred before joining.
“I used to see my child as a hindrance. Now I have self-esteem, I love myself and I can nurture my child better,” she said.
Her sentiments were echoed by fellow mother Salome Michelle, who described the outing as uplifting and motivating.
For Angela Murugi, the retreat was her first outing since becoming a mother. She called the program “God-sent,” saying it had taught her teamwork, confidence and the importance of caring for both herself and her child.
Angela encouraged other young mothers to form support groups, share their struggles and uplift one another.
The Good Shepherd Sisters continue to welcome partners and well-wishers to strengthen Imarisha Dada and expand its impact, especially as families and communities navigate the challenges of modern parenting.
Story & Photos by Muriithi Triple M
