Breaking Free: Melissa’s Courageous Escape from Forced Marriage to a Brighter Future

Melissa hails from Samburu, located near the coast region of Kenya. The 16-year-old ran away from home to escape retrogressive traditional and cultural practices because her father wanted to marry her off against her wish.” I hiked a truck along the busy Mombasa/Nairobi highway after managing to convince the driver that I was headed to Mombasa to visit a relative.” She got stranded upon arrival but a good Samaritan spotted her; an officer from Trace Kenya who promised to assist her.

After recording a statement at the Mvita Sub-County Children’s Department, “I was placed under Trace Kenya Shelter, where I received psychosocial support and security as the Directorate of Children’s Services sought an opportunity for me to further my education. Melissa is currently pursuing a course at a Catholic boarding institution in Samburu and Trace Kenya is paying her fees.