PLAN INTERNATIONAL

The collaboration between IRDAC and Plan International has been instrumental in advancing youth empowerment and child protection initiatives across East and Southern Africa. One of the most significant contributions was IRDAC’s development of a framework for Youth in Governance and Economic Security, which was adopted by Plan International in 12 countries, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Sudan, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. This framework provided a practical roadmap for designing education, governance, and economic programs that address the specific needs of young people, particularly young women, ensuring they have access to opportunities for participation and leadership.

Additionally, IRDAC partnered with Plan International to conduct a regional evaluation of early childhood development (ECD) projects, focusing on children from low-income families in Kenya and Mozambique. This evaluation not only assessed program outcomes but also included capacity-building workshops for both government officials and Plan’s research staff, ensuring long-term sustainability. Another milestone was IRDAC’s regional study on harmful practices, which spanned 12 African countries and informed Plan’s RESA Regional Office on strategies to harmonize legislation and grassroots action against harmful cultural practices. These initiatives demonstrate how IRDAC has strengthened Plan’s evidence base, expanded its reach, and positioned the organization as a leader in promoting child rights and youth empowerment across the continent.