The Place of Men in Combating FGM.
Conversations opposing Female Genital Mutilation have traditionally been perceived as a women-centric endeavour, with most advocates primarily targeting women to empower them in the fight against FGM. However, at Pastoralist Child Foundation we have discovered that conversations about ending FGM are incomplete without the inclusion of the men's voice. This is because of the unique and indispensable role that men play in communities.
Men, as the ultimate authority figures in communities hold great sway over the acceptance or rejection of any given cause. As such, in 2015, Pastoralist Child Foundation initiated FGM workshops for young boys and teenagers, a pioneering effort among the pastoral communities in Samburu. Elders too participated in separate workshops where community members addressed them regarding the importance of their voice in fighting against FGM. Through these organized forums, we encourage men to speak out against the harmful practice of FGM because of its negative effects on women and the broader community. We educate them on the dangers associated with FGM and urge them to be at the forefront in championing for the protection and dignity of the women in their lives.
Furthermore, as custodians of culture, men have the power to challenge harmful cultural norms within our societies. By equipping them with knowledge about the dangers of FGM, we empower them to effectively advocate against this practice. Men are also protectors of their communities. We address and empower young boys and teenagers because later they will become morans who will protect their communities, and what better way to protect our communities than to protect the women who nurture these communities?
By engaging men in these discussions there is a multiplier effect to our efforts in combating FGM. The men we educate and empower subsequently mobilise other men within the community into joining the fight against this practice. This collaborative approach creates a collective movement that rapidly spreads throughout communities, bolstering the campaign against FGM. Their voices amplify those of women thus contributing greatly to the eradication of this scourge particularly within pastoralist communities.
Acknowledging the significant influence that men wield, PCF has committed to continue actively engaging them in dialogues aimed at combating FGM. The progress we have observed since involving men in these conversations is worth celebrating. It was heartwarming to see the boys at the conclusion of one of our four-day workshops leave chanting "No More FGM". This motivates us to further enlist their voices and influence in our cause. We are confident that their support is instrumental in achieving our goals.
Story by Shilako Abutaka.
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