In a significant step towards eradicating Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Kenya, 80 girls aged between five and 13 from Bogusero Ward, Kitutu Central Sub-County, were celebrated at an event aimed at raising awareness against the harmful practice. The ceremony, held at Nyamatuta Primary School, coincided with the conclusion of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The gathering brought together parents, community leaders, and representatives from the anti-FGM Fulda Mosocho Project and Germany-based NGO Partners of Change. The event underscored the importance of community-driven initiatives in combatting FGM, which is recognized as a form of Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
Community Progress in Ending FGM
Simon Okeyo, Acting Chief of Bogusero Location, lauded the initiative, noting that the periodic events have contributed to a 20% reduction in FGM practices. He emphasized that the Fulda Project has eased the burden on law enforcement by encouraging voluntary abandonment of the practice within the community.
Jonathan Monyando, Assistant Chief of Bogusero South Sub-location, urged parents to act as ambassadors against FGM, calling for vigilance and reporting of ongoing cases to law enforcement authorities. “FGM is illegal, and it will not be tolerated,” he stressed.
A Value-Centered Approach
Maranga Makori, Project Manager for the Fulda Mosocho initiative, highlighted the program’s 20-year history of protecting girls from FGM, reporting that over 100,000 girls have been safeguarded since its inception. The project has expanded its activities to Marani and Kisii South Sub-Counties, using a value-centered approach inspired by their German partners. This approach includes a six-month training program for parents to foster attitude change and voluntary rejection of the practice.
Calls for Global Action
Tabitha Kerubo, a parent, praised the training sessions, stating they had enlightened many families on the harmful effects of FGM. “We are now equipped to champion against this practice,” she said.
Silk Sewing, a board member from Partners of Change, called for a collective global effort to eliminate FGM. “Small actions by individuals and organizations can complement government efforts to end this outdated practice,” she stated.
The event was a testament to the progress made in combating FGM and highlighted the need for sustained efforts to protect girls and uphold their rights
