Within a circle, we learn to protect our future.

Inside a circle of a densely populated neighborhood in the municipality of Viana in Angola, a small group of girls sits down to discuss their lives. There is no classroom, no uniforms, no notebooks. Yet, here, some of the most important lessons of their lives are shared. They talk about their bodies, menstruation, relationships, pregnancy, and their dreams.

This is Minha Kamba, a UNICEF community initiative supported by partnerships with the Ministry of Social Action, Family and Women's Promotion (MASFAMU), and civil society, which works to prevent teenage pregnancy through knowledge about sexual and reproductive health and rights and strengthen the protection of girls in Angola.

Learning where it matters most.

In Angola, teenage pregnancy remains a critical challenge. More than one in three girls already has at least one child before the age of 18, often leading to school dropout, early marriage, and long-term economic vulnerability.

These are not just numbers, they are stories of silence, limited access to accurate information, a lack of dialogue within families, few safe spaces where adolescents can ask questions without fear or judgment, and limited access to protection services. For many girls, Minha Kamba is the first time these conversations have taken place openly. 

"We meet under a tree, we gather girls, boys, children, everyone and we share what we learn," explains Graciete, a teenage peer educator.

"We use games and discussions. It's beautiful because we're sharing our own experience." Said Emanuela.

Girls ages 8 to 17 are trained as peer educators and return to their neighborhood to lead discussions about sexual and reproductive health, puberty, consent, and healthy relationships. By using familiar spaces and trusted voices, Minha Kamba reaches adolescents who might otherwise be excluded from formal services.

Breaking the Silence.

For many participants, the program fills a gap left by the absence of open communication at home.

"Many parents don't talk to their children about these things," says Graciete. "That's why many girls get pregnant due to a lack of information."

Emanuela highlighted how the engagement of parents can make a difference. "My parents talk to me a lot." "They explain and guide me. It helped me not to make mistakes."

Through Minha Kamba, girls not only gain knowledge but also gain confidence. They learn to understand their bodies, recognize risks, and make informed decisions. Several say the program has helped them set goals, plan for their future, and teach them about safeguarding issues.

From Knowledge to Opportunity.

For some girls, Minha Kamba has also opened doors to economic independence. Courses to develop professional skills, such as manicures and pedicures, allowed small groups of girls to start modest, income-generating activities in their homes.

"Now I can buy sanitary pads and pay for transportation," Graciete explains. "I don't always ask my parents."