Story · 9 September 2026 · Ivuna Ward, Songwe Region
A new chapter for 100 teen mothers in Ivuna Ward
On 9 September 2026, FOMO Initiative officially launched the Ivuna Teen Mothers Empowerment Centre in Songwe Region: the beginning of a three-year journey to equip marginalised teen mothers and young women with practical skills, knowledge, confidence and opportunities to build more independent futures.
- centre launched
- 9 Sept 2026
- teen mothers enrolled
- 100
- villages: Ivuna, Itumbula, Saman'gombe, Lwatwe and Kalungu
- 5
- three-year programme period
- 2026-2029
- funding partner
- Kidunda Helium
Source: FOMO Initiative launch records, September 2026.
The launch day
The whole community came
The launch brought together FOMO Initiative, our private-sector funding partner, local government and community leaders, parents and, most importantly, the young women at the heart of the project.
The programme
One hundred women, five villages, three years
Through the initiative, 100 teen mothers from five villages within Ivuna Ward (Ivuna, Itumbula, Saman'gombe, Lwatwe and Kalungu) were enrolled in the programme.
Over the three-year project period, the centre will provide opportunities for skills development and empowerment, including tailoring, entrepreneurship and education on sexual and reproductive health, menstrual health and hygiene, gender-based violence and mental well-being.
Who stood with us
Partners, from funder to village office
FOMO Initiative was represented by Vivian Sirikwa, Founder and Managing Director, alongside Mr Charlie FitzRoy and Mr Patric Muwowo of Kidunda Helium, whose support and funding have made this project possible.
We were honoured by the presence and support of local leaders, including Hon. Erick Cassian Mkamba, Ward Councillor; Ms Elifrida Moses, Ward Community Development Officer; and Mr Cledo, Ivuna Village Executive Officer. FOMO Initiative sincerely appreciates the village and ward leadership for their warm welcome, cooperation and commitment to ensuring that this initiative reaches the women and girls who need it most.
Voices from the community
Hearing it from the women themselves
One of the most meaningful moments of the launch was hearing directly from the community. Representatives of teen mothers from different villages shared their experiences, hopes and expectations for the programme. Community leaders also addressed the gathering, followed by remarks from Mr Charlie FitzRoy and Mr Patric Muwowo.
Parents of the teen mothers also shared heartfelt messages of appreciation, speaking about what this opportunity means not only for their daughters, but also for their children and families. Their words were a powerful reminder that when a young mother is given an opportunity to rebuild her future, the impact can extend to the next generation.
For FOMO Initiative, the Ivuna Centre represents much more than a training facility.
A second chance, renewed dignity and the possibility of economic independence for young mothers whose circumstances should never determine the limits of their future.
With thanks
Those who made the day possible
- Kidunda Helium
- Funding partner, represented by Mr Charlie FitzRoy and Mr Patric Muwowo
- Hon. Erick Cassian Mkamba
- Ward Councillor
- Ms Elifrida Moses
- Ward Community Development Officer
- Mr Cledo
- Ivuna Village Executive Officer
We extend our sincere appreciation to Kidunda Helium for investing in this three-year initiative and believing in our mission, and to the leadership and communities of Ivuna Ward for welcoming and supporting the programme.
To the 100 young mothers who have joined us: this centre belongs to your journey. May it become a place where skills are developed, confidence is restored, dreams are rediscovered and new possibilities begin.
Purpose in action, shaping tomorrow together
Stand with the Ivuna cohort
The centre extends our flagship Teen Mothers Empowerment Programme. Fund the three-year plan, partner on delivery, or read the evidence behind the model.