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Mother’s Story

Duration: 2016 - 2020

Background

“The Mother’s Story” project documented the challenges faced by 20 young first-time mothers (15 under age 20) across Northern, Upper West, and Volta/Oti Regions through longitudinal case studies conducted over 30 months. The research revealed critical barriers to economic empowerment, including limited SRHR knowledge, cultural practices restricting women’s independence, and lack of livelihood opportunities after teenage pregnancy. In response, the project provided targeted support to connect participants with income-generating activities while compiling insights into a manual (“Naana’s Story”) used by health workers and teachers to address systemic challenges.

Strategy

The project implemented a multi-pronged approach to improve economic outcomes:

  1. Skills Training & Startup Support
    • Provided full vocational training packages including:
      • 4 women in weaving
      • 2 in dressmaking
      • 2 in hairdressing
      • 2 in breadmaking
      • 1 in retail (provision shop)
      • 2 in agricultural production
  2. Education Reintegration
    • Supported 4 young mothers to return to formal education
    • Combined with childcare support systems
  3. Comprehensive Resource Provision
    • Distributed complete equipment packages for all vocational tracks
    • Created sustainable income-generating assets
    • Established mentorship networks within each trade
  4. Systemic Change Components
    • Developed discussion manual for health/education systems
    • Promoted male partner engagement strategies
    • Addressed cultural barriers through community dialogues

Key Outcomes

  • 17/20 participants established sustainable income streams through supported vocations,
  • Created opportunities across 6 different trade sectors,
  • Provided complete startup kits (100% equipment provision rate),
  • 20% of participants resumed formal schooling,
  • Manual adoption by GHS created broader systemic impact,
  • Demonstrated model for breaking cycles of poverty post-teen pregnancy, and
  • Addressed food taboos and birth practices affecting economic participation.

The project showed how targeted livelihood support combined with systemic interventions can transform economic prospects for young mothers, with 85% of vocational participants maintaining income activities 12 months post-intervention. The manual continues to guide similar initiatives across northern Ghana.