Mandera County women have taken a bold stand against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), rallying together to eradicate the deeply entrenched practice that has affected generations of young girls in the region.
During the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, women who were once blamed for upholding the harmful tradition emerged as the strongest voices advocating for its complete abolition. FGM champions, predominantly women, urged their fellow community members to reject the practice and embrace a future free from its harmful consequences.
The movement has gained momentum, with local residents joining the cause to condemn FGM and emphasize the urgency of protecting young girls from its adverse effects. Many women in Mandera have expressed concerns that their daughters live in constant fear, uncertain of their future due to societal expectations and the risk of being ostracized if they refuse to undergo FGM.
Dr. Aisha Hussein, a medical practitioner at Mandera County Referral Hospital, highlighted the severe health risks associated with FGM, warning that the complications are too grave to ignore. “FGM has devastating health consequences, including infections, childbirth complications, and even death. It is a practice that we must eliminate,” she stated. Dr. Hussein called upon women to take the lead in spreading awareness and educating their communities on the dangers of FGM.
“Women must be at the forefront in protecting their daughters. We need to speak up, educate, and ensure that this harmful tradition is abandoned for good,” she added.
Mandera Assistant County Commissioner Patrick Messo issued a stern warning to parents and guardians involved in FGM, stating that legal action would be taken against perpetrators. He further urged local leaders to report any cases to authorities to ensure swift action and justice for affected girls.
Messo emphasized that FGM could lead to fatal health complications, making it imperative to intensify efforts to eradicate the practice. Various organizations and civil society institutions have been actively involved in combating FGM in Mandera County, significantly impacting communities where the practice remains widespread. However, despite these concerted efforts, the challenge remains substantial.
With over 70% of women aged 15-49 in Mandera County having undergone FGM, the urgency for heightened awareness and intervention cannot be overstated. The National Government has prioritized ending FGM, yet achieving this goal remains a daunting task.
Local activists and authorities remain hopeful that through persistent advocacy, education, and community engagement, FGM will soon be a relic of the past in Mandera County. Women are determined to reclaim their rights and protect future generations from the harmful effects of FGM, proving that change is not only possible but inevitable.
