Because Only Together We Can

Empowering Girls Through Football & Education in Turkana

Who We Are

Turkana Desert Roses is a community-based organization in Lodwar, Turkana County, Kenya, harnessing the power of football and education to transform lives. In a region where girls face early pregnancies, forced marriages, poverty, and limited access to schooling, we provide safe spaces for them to learn, play, and thrive. Through football, we build teamwork, resilience, and sisterhood; through education, we offer mentorship, materials, and support to keep girls in school. Our wider programs in entrepreneurship, health, and environmental conservation equip women and girls with essential life skills, empowering them to become leaders and break cycles of inequality. We are more than a team — we are a movement for change.

What We Do

01.

— Football for Empowerment

Football is more than a game- it’s a tool for confidence, teamwork, and resilience. We organize training camps, mentorship sessions, and tournaments that not only keep girls active and engaged but also protect them from harmful practices like early marriages.

02.

— Education Support

We believe education is the foundation for breaking cycles of poverty and inequality. Turkana Desert Roses supports girls through scholarships, mentorship, and the provision of school materials such as uniforms and books.

03.

— Women & Youth Empowerment

Beyond education and sports, we equip young women and youth with practical skills in entrepreneurship and self-reliance helping young women and youth create income opportunities and become community role models.

04.

— Health & Sanitation​

Good health is essential for a girl’s success. We promote hygiene and menstrual health by providing access to sanitary materials, raising awareness, and advocating for better health facilities. By breaking taboos and improving access, we empower girls to stay in school confidently and consistently.

05.

— Climate & Environment​

Turkana’s harsh climate presents daily challenges, especially for women and children. We respond by engaging in tree planting, waste recycling, and climate awareness campaigns. These initiatives protect the environment, build resilience and inspire communities to adopt sustainable practices for future generations.

SUCCESS Stories​

Breaking Norms and Inspiring a New Generation

In 2023, Desert Roses organized Turkana’s first-ever women’s football tournament. Supported by the Australian High Commission, the tournament drew participants from across the region — over 50 young women played in front of a large Lodwar crowd

ootball as a Shield Against Early Pregnancy and School Dropouts​

One of the founding players, Stella Ekuwom, used football as her lifeline — transitioning from school to university, thanks to her involvement with the team. She credits Desert Roses FC with keeping her and others away from early pregnancy, idle behavior, and substance abuse, offering them an alternative path through teamwork, mentorship, and sport

Partners list coming soon……

Donate

Support Us and Change a Life Today!

Your donation keeps girls in school, on the field, and on the path to brighter futures. Together, we can change lives in Turkana.