By A, KNA
Efforts to eradicate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Migori County have gained momentum as leaders, activists, and government agencies join forces to end the harmful cultural practice that has long affected young girls in the Kuria region.
According to Migori Chief Officer in Charge of Gender and Culture, Prof. Rose Ogwang, several organizations, local, national, and international, are working with the county government to educate communities on the dangers of FGM and its negative impact on girls’ health, education, and future prospects.
Ogwang said that political leaders, educationists, and the clergy have partnered with government agencies, NGOs, and Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) to advocate for the protection of girls and promote their right to live free from harmful cultural practices.
“Last year, we noticed a significant shift as more people began to accept the need for change. The focus now is on educating not just girls, but entire communities, on the importance of abandoning female circumcision,” she said.
The long October–December holiday has presented a challenge for security agencies and local administrators as they intensify surveillance to prevent planned FGM ceremonies, particularly in the sub-counties of Mabera, Ndimaru, Kuria East, and Kuria West.
Ogwang noted that ongoing workshops, public discussions, and the involvement of religious and community leaders have helped promote anti-FGM messages and change mindsets, especially among young people.
“When we went to the community, we spoke with many young girls who had dropped out of school after undergoing FGM and were later married off at a young age,” she said.
She emphasized that youth engagement is key to the movement’s progress, noting that many young leaders are now actively championing the campaign against FGM and envision a future where the practice no longer exists.
“We have seen churches, CBOs, and other community leaders coming together to support this cause. It is a collective effort, and we believe it is working,” she added.
Migori County Commissioner Kisilu Mutua urged parents to abandon retrogressive cultural practices and instead invest in socio-economic activities and education for their children, particularly girls.
Mutua emphasized that although the fight against FGM is not yet over, consistent advocacy and community involvement have created hope for a future where girls grow up free from harmful traditions.
Keraka Chacha, an anti-FGM advocate from the Kuria area, said the practice has been a leading cause of early marriages among girls. He urged the community to fully support government and stakeholder initiatives aimed at making the Kuria region FGM-free before the realization of Kenya’s Vision 2030.