It is tough being a teenage girl in Djibouti.
Once girls reach puberty, they are often taken out of school by their families so they can work in their home – education is not seen as important for them. A woman’s place is within the walls of the family home.
But changes are taking place. Girls are allowed to stay on at school, attend university and take up employment but it takes time to change attitudes and expectations that have been fixed for generations.
Since 2008 a new agent for change has been at work in Djibouti.
is a project sponsored by non-governmental organizations.
The coaches and sponsors of Girls Run 2 aim to see girls run with excellence in athletic competitions. They also believe in the value of sport for teaching:
- team work,
- providing a sense of belonging and identity,
- and as a means of developing character.
Many of the team members come from low-income families and have little knowledge of proper nutrition, hygiene, or training techniques. Many also struggle to afford school fees and medical bills. Girls Run 2 comes alongside these families to ensure girls stay in school, stay healthy, and become contributing, active members of their communities.
At present about 40 girls, aged 10-17 are involved. They train 6 times weekly and partake in competitions. They are ably coached by a Djiboutian university student who used to be a running girl. In September, the girls competed in a national championship and came 1st, 2nd and 3rd in their event!
Even though the girls have demonstrated how able and healthy they are, some community members continue to believe it isn’t healthy for girls to run fast or long distances. Some believe that if a girl runs too much she will become infertile, or that once a woman has given birth it will be physically impossible for her to run.
Girls Run 2, is defying stereotypes and is contributing to a changed perception both of sport and gender.
- Camaraderie,
- identity,
- confidence,
- community participation,
- health benefits,
- and character building
are just some of the ways running improves the lives of these Djiboutians.
Girls Run 2 is unique in Djibouti for it is the only running club specifically focused on training young female athletes for track and field competition.
MMR team members help out by assisting with the coaching:
‘I love it – I’ve seen the girls grow up at such a pivotal stage in their lives. I’ve gained a best friend who I can coach alongside and learn from. It has enabled me to engage in the community by meeting local families. I have had the privilege of instilling confidence within these girls and challenging them to see that their hearts, minds, and bodies are so much stronger than what society says. It is a privilege.’
Transforming Lives and Communities
in the Horn of Africa Through Running
Kerith Trust 