Defying FGM Tradition: The Courageous Women of Tawfiq Village

As the world observes Zero Tolerance for FGM today, a group of women in Tawfiq village, nestled in the heart of Tana River County, have made a resolute decision to cease the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM).

These women have taken an oath to abandon FGM practice and instead become ambassadors for the cause of protecting young girls from the razor's edge.

During our visit to the village, Mama Halima Gabey, who leads the group of women, shared with Wananchi Reporting the harrowing details of how FGM is traditionally often carried out.

Typically performed in rural areas during holidays, the practice is often conducted in the morning, where young girls are clandestinely taken into the forest.

There, they undergo the cut in their genitalia, followed by a week-long binding with a rope.

Throughout this period, the victims are restricted to consuming only soft foods and liquids, as any movement could impede the healing process, resulting in unimaginable pain and suffering.

Halima's decision to abandon this practice stems from witnessing the long-term repercussions it inflicts upon the girls she once attended to.

She recounted how many such young women faced complications during childbirth, often requiring cesarean sections, while others suffered enduring reproductive health issues.

Her resolve to break this cycle of suffering is a testament to her courage and compassion.

As the world observes Zero Tolerance for FGM today, the Brighter Society Initiative, a non-governmental organization in Tana River, orchestrated a stirring procession to mark this significant day.

Saadia Hussein, a survivor of FGM, attested to the progress made through the concerted efforts of both governmental and non-governmental organizations.

Through their intervention, FGM cases have been reduced from 90 percent to 60 per cent, paving the way for young girls to complete their education and reclaim their dignity.

The journey to eradicate FGM is far from over, but the courage of the women in Tawfiq village stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring change and fostering a brighter future for generations to come.