TRANSFORM LIVES THROUGH THE POWER OF MUSIC
Together we can empower young people across Africa and drive lasting and positive change in health, education, and equality.
equality
At Brass for Africa, we champion equality for all. We’re dedicated to ensuring equal opportunities through our programmes for refugees and children with disabilities, and we actively advocate for gender equality for girls and young women.
The Challenge
For many young people worldwide, the most pressing challenges are rooted in systemic inequalities that drive exclusion, poverty and injustice.
1 in 3
girls in Sub-Saharan Africa are married before their 18th birthday.
(UN)
30%
of the world’s refugee population live in sub-Saharan Africa.
(UNHCR)
2x
children with disabilities experience double discrimination, facing barriers related to both their gender and disability.
(WHO)
6 in 10
female learners miss 2-3 days of school every month due to lack of safe menstrual hygiene management.
(Uganda Auditor General)
Our solution
We recognise childhood and adolescence as critical developmental periods and work to ensure that girls, individuals living with disabilities, and refugees have equitable access to opportunities and decision-making processes. Our approach consists of:
EMPOWERING GIRLS AND YOUNG WOMEN
EMPOWERING GIRLS AND YOUNG WOMEN
We aim to increase female participation in our programmes, leadership roles, and technical skilling, thereby reducing their vulnerability and empowering them to thrive.
We provide support to help girls and young women break barriers and lead.
INCLUSION OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
INCLUSION OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
Brass for Africa is a leader in implementing inclusive music programmes that actively involve and appreciate individuals with various disabilities, including neurological disorders like autism spectrum disorders.
We strive to increase awareness among the population regarding the presence and needs of people with different abilities.
SUPPORTING REFUGEES AND DISPLACED COMMUNITIES
SUPPORTING REFUGEES AND DISPLACED COMMUNITIES
In humanitarian settings like the Bidibidi Refugee Settlement, we bring the power of music to create opportunities for thousands of young refugees.
Our programmes focus on training, startups, and linkage to services, ensuring refugees have equitable opportunities.
our impact
Our latest research shows that:
INCREASED
FEMALE
PARTICIPATION
30%
increase
Female participation in our programmes has steadily increased from 37% in 2020 to 48% in 2025, reflecting our success in promoting gender equality within our initiatives.
ENHANCED
AUTISM
AWARENESS
35%
AWARENESS INCREASE
Our efforts have led to a 35% increase in overall autism awareness within communities reached by the project, promoting greater understanding and acceptance of neurological disorders.
IMPROVED OPPORTUNITIES
FOR REFUGEES
17%
LIVELIHOOD IMPROVEMENT
In the Bidibidi refugee settlement, the perceived opportunity for learning and creating a livelihood significantly improved by 17% within a year, indicating the positive impact of our interventions.
REDUCED CHILD
MARRIAGE
VULNERABILITY
9%
REDUCTION
In areas of intervention, the vulnerability of girls to child marriage was reduced by 9%, showcasing the effectiveness of our programs in protecting young girls.
*Statistics derived from the 2024 Health Report by Brass for Africa, published in June 2025
Josh’ story – from silence to STRENGTH
With 15% of the global population living with a disability—80% of whom reside in developing countries—children in Sub-Saharan Africa often face societies ill-equipped for their needs. Six-year-old Josh, who lives with autism, was previously non-verbal and struggled to communicate. However, through the Brass for Africa Music & Life-Skills programme, he found a supportive environment designed to help him overcome these barriers and find his voice.
The power of music therapy and consistent encouragement recently led to a major breakthrough: Josh successfully commanded the band with the call, “Band ready? By the centre, quick march!” By providing equal opportunities and tailored support, the programme empowers young people like Josh to develop essential communication skills, showcase their potential, and thrive despite their challenges.
