Women in Mandera County are collaborating to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a harmful tradition impacting local girls. Spearheaded by women advocates, the movement seeks to raise awareness and combat the practice, with significant contributions from healthcare professionals and local authorities. Currently, over 70% of women aged 15-49 have undergone FGM, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and education.
Women in Mandera County are uniting in a decisive effort to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a harmful practice affecting young girls in the region. The movement is largely led by women who advocate for the complete abandonment of this tradition. They are calling on others to reject FGM and join them in raising awareness about its dangers.
On the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, mothers, traditionally blamed for perpetuating this harmful culture, are now actively participating in its cessation. Local residents are condemning the practice, highlighting an urgent need for protective measures for young girls. Concerns have been raised about the fears faced by girls and the societal pressure they experience if they refuse to undergo FGM.
Dr. Aisha Hussein, a practitioner at Mandera County Referral Hospital, warned about the grave health risks linked to FGM. “FGM has devastating health consequences, including infections, complications in childbirth, and even death. It is a practice that we must eliminate,” she stated. She called for women to organize campaigns to educate their communities about these risks.
Mandera Assistant County Commissioner Patrick Messo addressed the event, emphasizing legal repercussions for parents who engage in FGM. He urged local leaders to promptly report any FGM cases, stressing the dire health complications girls could face. Messo reiterated the critical need for eradicating this practice in the community.
Various organizations are working within Mandera County to combat FGM, making notable strides in areas where the practice is widespread. Nonetheless, the challenge remains significant, particularly with over 70% of women aged 15-49 having experienced FGM. There’s an urgent call for increased awareness and intervention to combat this issue effectively.
The National Government has made ending FGM a priority, yet significant obstacles persist in achieving this goal. Local activists are optimistic that through continued advocacy and proactive community engagement, FGM can be eliminated in Mandera County, reducing the risk to young girls in the region.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a deeply-rooted cultural practice prevalent in various communities, particularly in certain regions of Africa. It involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. This practice poses severe health risks including complications during childbirth and potential death, alongside violating the rights of women and girls. In Mandera County, FGM has affected over 70% of women aged 15-49, indicating a pressing need for intervention and education about its consequences, as well as support for families willing to abandon the tradition.
The movement to end FGM in Mandera County is gaining momentum as women unite to advocate against this harmful practice. With medical professionals warning of the severe health risks and local authorities promising strict action against offenders, there is a renewed hope for change. Increased awareness and community engagement are crucial in eradicating this deeply entrenched practice and protecting the rights and futures of young girls.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
