Please note: The following piece includes themes of abuse and trauma. Please read with care.

‘Samira’ (16) only finished grade one before leaving school to care for her younger siblings.

A skilled footballer, she stopped playing when she married earlier this year. Her friends saw less of her, and she was absent from youth group and the football field.

‘Madalena’ (14) has been struggling to care for her newborn son. Pregnant to an older man, she endured severe illness and trauma throughout her pregnancy. At eight months, a beating from a family member triggered early labour, and she delivered her baby alone and unsupported. She’s experiencing post-natal depression and difficulty bonding with her baby. Her family has told others she’s “not right in the head” and has bad spirits, but over many weeks of building trust, she’s shared with us a very different, deeply confronting reality.

Girls here often face great challenges and injustices. Family expectations, limited resources, education not seen as a priority, early marriage, abuse, trauma and physical hardship can all shape their lives. Yet God’s heart for these girls is that they would know their identity and value, and His goodness and care. That they would be free from fear, pain and injustice. That they would have the space and support to hope, grow and thrive.

Two weeks ago, Samira joined the teen girls’ group near her home. She said little, listening to the conversation and beading alongside her friends. As we wrapped up, she said she’d come again.

Last week, Madalena came, baby held close, and stood a little apart from the other girls who were chatting and creating. She wasn’t yet ready for a large group, but together we watched and talked about the brave steps she’s taking – caring for her baby, leaving the house, choosing connection. As we packed up, she quietly asked if she could be part of the group the following week.

Please pray for these young women, and the many others like them. Pray for their communities and families to be places of care, safety and opportunity.

It can be difficult hearing about the unjust treatment of many girls in Mozambique. Please pray for our team members as they navigate this complex space and discern the best way to support Yawo girls and women within their cultural context. May God guide them and give them wisdom.