By: Foluke Akinwalere. Freelance Health Writer. Medical review and editorial support provided by the DLHA Team
Zero tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation. image credit from Freepik
The fight against female genital mutilation (FGM) is not only a global effort but also deeply rooted in national and local communities where the practice is more prevalent. Grassroots movements and community-based interventions are critical in addressing FGM at its source, working directly with those affected and challenging the cultural norms that sustain the practice.
Local Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and civil society organisations play a crucial role in the movement to end FGM. For instance community-based organisations, such as Socio-Economic Development and Human Rights Organisation, Action Aid, World Vision, Save the Children and the Population Council, Habiba International, including international NGOs such as United Nations Populations Fund (UNFPA) are working to end cross-border FGM in the Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Tanzania, and Uganda. [3]
These organisations are often deeply embedded in the communities they serve, which allow them to implement effective and culturally sensitive interventions. By working at the grassroots level, they can tailor their approaches to the specific needs and context of each community.
Education and awareness programs are key components of these interventions. These programs target both communities and practitioners, offering information about the health risks and human rights violations associated with FGM. By raising awareness, these programs aim to shift perceptions and encourage communities to abandon the practice. They often include workshops, public discussions, and the use of local media to spread their message.
Empowerment of women and girls through local leadership is another vital strategy. By training and supporting female leaders within the community, these movements empower women to advocate their rights and lead the charge against FGM. This approach helps to dismantle the power dynamics that sustain FGM and fosters a culture of equality and respect for women’s autonomy.
To effectively combat FGM in Africa, it is crucial to understand the cultural context in which it occurs. Engaging with local leaders and influencers is key to changing perceptions and norms around FGM. Their influence in the community can help drive change and create a ripple effect in ending the practice. When local leaders publicly denounce FGM, it sends a powerful message that can lead to broader community change
Alternative rites of passage (ARP) initiatives are another effective strategy. In many cultures, FGM is seen as a necessary rite of passage for girls transitioning into womanhood. By providing alternative ceremonies that do not involve cutting, communities can preserve their cultural traditions while rejecting harmful practices. A good example is the Loita Rite of Passage among the Loita Maasai of southern Kenya in association with NGO SAFE Maa. It is an alternative right of passage that was developed through a partnership between community members and SAFE Maa, the Maasai team of the Kenya-British NGO S.A.F.E. (which stands for Sponsored Arts For Education). [4]
These alternative rites often include educational components and celebrations that validate the girl’s journey into adulthood in a positive and healthy way. The successes highlight the importance of culturally sensitive, community-drive approaches to ending FGM in Africa.
Many countries where FGM is practiced have enacted laws to ban the procedure. These anti-FGM laws criminalise the practice and impose penalties on those who perform or facilitate it, for example Gambia . Countries such as Kenya, Egypt, and Burkina Faso also have robust legal frameworks aimed at eradicating FGM. However, enforcement remains a significant challenge. Due to its deeply rooted cultural traditions, it is difficult to detect and prosecute offenders in many regions. Additionally, fear of social rejection often prevents victims and communities from reporting cases, which complicates elimination efforts further.
Government policies play a critical role in the fight against FGM, particularly in areas such as health, education, and women’s rights. Policies that integrate FGM prevention into broader health and education strategies are essential for raising awareness and providing support to those at risk. Partnerships between governments and international organisations, such as the United Nation (UN) and African Union (AU), enhance the effectiveness of these policies by providing resources, expertise, and platform for global advocacy.
Effective monitoring and evaluation are vital for tracking the progress of anti-FGM laws and policies. Governments and international organisations use various tools to assess the impact of these efforts, including data collection, community surveys, and reporting mechanisms. Success stories from countries like Senegal, [5] where comprehensive policies and strong community engagement have led to significant reductions in FGM rates, provide valuable lessons for other nations. Continuous evaluation helps identify gaps, refine strategies, and ensure that legal and policy efforts are effectively contributing to the eradicating of FGM.
Despite the progress made, there are significant challenges and barriers to ending FGM in some communities in Africa. One of the most difficult challenges is overcoming resistance due to deep-rooted cultural practices. In many communities, FGM is seen as a necessary tradition, and efforts to eliminate it are often met with suspicion or hostility.
The role of patriarchy and traditional beliefs cannot be underestimated. FGM is often tied to patriachal norms that seek to control women’s sexuality and reinforce gender inequality. Challenging these beliefs requires not only legal and educational efforts but also a broader cultural shift towards gender equality.
Logistical and financial barriers also pose significant challenges, particularly in rural and marginalised communities. These areas may lack access to education, healthcare, and other resources necessary for effective intervention. Additionally, the cost of implementing programs and providing support services can be prohibitive, limiting the reach and impact of grassroots efforts.
Despite these challenges, the continued commitment of local NGOs, civil society organisations, and community leaders remain essential to the global movement to end FGM. By addressing the practice at its roots and working hand-in-hand with affected communities, these efforts are making significant strides toward a future free from FGM.
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Published: September 19, 2024.
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