The Grim Reality of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

*Photo from the region in Kenya where we have rescued five girls from FGM and Forced Childhood Marriage.* © *Just1 International Mission*

What is Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)?

Last week, during our monthly call with the Kenya team, we received heartbreaking news. One of our house parents visited a few of the girls' tribes and discovered that the mothers of three of our girls are in charge of the illegal practice of FGM (Female Genital Mutilation). FGM involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons and is a tradition that has, sadly, been practiced for centuries as a sign of womanhood. Girls who undergo FGM often fetch a higher bride price, and those who do not are considered to not "belong." It's not a choice but a demand.

FGM in Kenya: The Grim Reality

In Kenya, August is the peak time for FGM, also known as the “cutting season.” During our call, our team shared the grim reality these girls face: “One of our girls mother is in charge of taking the girls from their homes if they are to undergo the FGM. If they go to your home and see an older girl that has yet to have this done, they can take the daughter by force and the father cannot say anything per tribal culture. FGM is illegal per Kenya law but the tribe is still actively seeking out girls to practice it on.”

Health Risks and Life-Long Consequences of FGM

FGM is usually performed in unsanitary conditions like a cow shed or hut, using the same crude tool on multiple girls, typically aged 7-10, sometimes as old as 14. The health complications are severe, often leading to lifelong suffering or even death. Once FGM is performed, girls are often pulled out of school and forced into child marriage, ending their education and beginning a new nightmare.

The Role of Education in Ending FGM

This resource from UNICEF states “The practice of FGM has proved remarkably tenacious, despite efforts spanning nearly a century to eliminate it. Because of deep social and cultural roots, FGM has been highly resistant to elimination throughout the tribes. Yet, a growing body of evidence suggests that education can be a powerful lever in shifting attitudes about FGM and ultimately changing behavior. Education influences not only attitudes but behavior as well. Girls whose mothers have a primary education are 40 percent less likely to be cut than those whose mothers have no education. In many countries, women with a secondary education are even less likely to continue the practice of FGM into the next generation.”

Hope for Change: The Impact of Education and Faith

Some former practitioners of FGM have abandoned the practice, crediting their reformation to newfound faith in God and the education they received from various organizations (source). These stories of change offer hope that, with continued education and support, the cycle of FGM can be broken.

How You Can Help: Supporting the Fight Against FGM

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, our girls have not only been saved from this horrific tradition but also have the opportunity to receive an education that few in their position get to experience. Your support helps protect these girls from FGM and empowers them through education, offering them a brighter future.

If you are not already a monthly donor, we invite you to join us in impacting the lives of 15 beautiful girls. Our current need is to raise an additional $1000 a month to fully fund our Kenya Restorative Care Program. Whether you can give $25 a month or $500, every dollar will help us provide quality, transformative care to these precious girls. Click the donate button below to become a monthly partner or to make a one-time donation.

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