Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) has lasting physical and mental consequences that need to be discussed so that girls and women no longer have to suffer in silence. We are glad to work in partnership with Africa Youth Hub to front the campaign to end FGM.
They say it takes a village to raise a child, but our conversations with communities in Uganda suggest that it will take families, communities and government support to end female genital mutilation (FGM) for good. It also stands out clearly that everyone can do something within their means to create awareness and sensitize masses about the dangers associated with FGM.
While eliminating all harmful practices, including female genital mutilation is a target under SDG5 (Gender Equality), 3 million girls and women are still at risk of being cut and exposed to harmful health consequences every year.
Legislation that protect a girl’s right to health, bodily integrity, and to live free from gender-based discrimination and violence, including FGM, is critical in achieving gender equality. It timely that we stand together to speak up against FGM and create platforms for young girls to come together and share their stories.
Addressing the root causes of gender inequalities by transforming harmful gender roles, norms and power relations that sustain FGM is critical. Community mobilization interventions raise awareness, create space for self-reflection and encourage critical questioning of FGM.
Positive parenting to counter gender-related harmful practices can be key to FGM prevention among infants. This also includes integrating FGM in early childhood development programmes, promotes gender-responsive parenting through mass media interventions, community engagement and home visits. Positive parenting can encourage communities to actively monitor and become engaged in the lives of girls at risk of undergoing FGM, and support community surveillance through child protection committees.
FGM is a gross violation of human rights, a form of violence against women and girls, and a manifestation of gender inequality.
Together, we can eradicate this and other harmful practices in Africa.
EVERY ACTION COUNTS
No comment