Deadline: 08-May-2026
The UNICEF Kenya call for proposals supports interventions to end child marriage, defilement, and sexual violence in selected counties. It focuses on child protection systems, legal accountability, and social norms change through community-based action. The initiative funds organisations to deliver targeted, high-impact interventions in vulnerable regions.
Overview
The UNICEF is inviting grant applications to implement interventions addressing child marriage and gender-based violence in Kenya.
The programme targets high-risk counties including Turkana County, Samburu County, Kajiado County, and Tana River County.
Key Objectives of the Programme
The initiative aims to:
- Prevent child marriage and early forced unions
- Address defilement and sexual violence
- Strengthen child protection systems
- Improve access to justice and legal accountability
- Shift harmful social norms and practices
Priority Focus Areas
1. Child Protection and Legal Systems
- Community surveillance and case identification
- Strengthening referral pathways
- Legal assistance and access to justice
- Collaboration with law enforcement and justice actors
2. Gender-Based Violence Prevention
- Prevention and response to violence against children
- Survivor-centered support mechanisms
- Case tracking and follow-up
3. Social Norms and Behaviour Change
- Community dialogues and awareness campaigns
- Addressing harmful practices (e.g., early marriage, bride price)
- Promoting gender equality and child rights
Funding Details
- Indicative budget: KSh 55,000
- Funding type: Programmatic support for local interventions
- Geographic focus: Selected counties and sub-counties in Kenya
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Civil society organisations (CSOs)
- Community-based organisations
- NGOs with experience in child protection or GBV
Key Requirements
- Demonstrated experience in relevant sectors
- Capacity to operate in targeted counties
- Ability to collaborate with community and government actors
How the Programme Works
Selected organisations will:
- Operate within assigned geographic areas
- Implement activities under defined programme pillars
- Collaborate with local stakeholders and authorities
- Report on progress and outcomes
Implementation Approach
Protection Pillar Activities
- Work with paralegals and community volunteers
- Identify and prevent child marriage cases
- Support reporting through referral systems
- Engage law enforcement to stop planned marriages
- Strengthen case follow-up and prosecution
Justice and Accountability
- Participate in community-justice dialogues
- Improve case handling and reduce attrition
- Support survivor-centered legal processes
Social Norms Change Activities
- Conduct community dialogues and forums
- Facilitate screenings of NAWI: Dear Future Me
- Lead discussions on harmful practices
- Promote behaviour change and awareness
Why This Initiative Matters
This programme is critical because it:
- Protects vulnerable children from abuse and exploitation
- Strengthens legal systems and accountability
- Empowers communities to challenge harmful traditions
- Promotes long-term social and behavioural change
How to Apply / Application Process
Step 1: Review Requirements
Understand programme pillars and geographic focus.
Step 2: Develop Proposal
Prepare a project aligned with protection and social norms objectives.
Step 3: Define Implementation Plan
Include:
- Activities and timeline
- Stakeholder engagement strategy
- Monitoring and evaluation plan
Step 4: Submit Application
Apply through the official UNICEF Kenya channel.
Step 5: Evaluation
Proposals are assessed based on relevance, capacity, and impact.
Evaluation Criteria
Applications are evaluated on:
- Alignment with programme objectives
- Organisational experience and capacity
- Feasibility and sustainability
- Community engagement and impact potential
Expected Outcomes
- Reduced cases of child marriage and violence
- Improved reporting and prosecution rates
- Stronger community protection systems
- Increased awareness and behaviour change
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- कमजोर alignment with programme priorities
- Lack of community engagement strategy
- Incomplete or unclear proposal
- Overambitious implementation plans
Tips for a Strong Application
- Focus on practical, community-level solutions
- Demonstrate strong partnerships
- Provide clear monitoring and impact indicators
- Align closely with both protection and social norms pillars
FAQs
Who can apply for this UNICEF grant?
CSOs, NGOs, and community organisations with relevant experience in child protection and GBV.
Which areas are covered?
Turkana, Samburu, Kajiado, and Tana River counties in Kenya.
What is the funding amount?
Indicative budget is KSh 55,000.
What activities are supported?
Child protection, legal support, community engagement, and social norms change initiatives.
Is collaboration required?
Yes, with community actors, government, and justice systems.
How are proposals evaluated?
Based on relevance, capacity, feasibility, and impact.
What is the main goal?
To end child marriage and protect children from violence and harmful practices.
Conclusion
The UNICEF Kenya initiative provides a critical opportunity for organisations to combat child marriage and gender-based violence. By combining legal action, community engagement, and social change strategies, it aims to create safer environments and lasting protection for children.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.