It is courageous to act despite of fear

All girls have the right to live in peace, free from the fear of undergoing female genital mutilation (FGM). It takes courage to say no to FGM and break the cycle of violence. However, it is not always possible.

In Kenya’s Kisii region, where ISF operates, Jane Nunda, who experienced FGM at the age of six, decided as an adult to publicly oppose the practice and ensure that her own daughters would not be subjected to it. She shares her daily life and the choices she has made.

Jane’s six-member family works as farmers. Although they live hand-to-mouth, their children’s education is a priority.

“Workers from ISF’s partner organization, CECOME, came to my village, and it inspired me. They talked about the dangers and harms of FGM,” says Jane.

“I didn’t want my daughters to experience the same pain I went through during FGM.”

Previously, she didn’t believe she could challenge this cultural tradition, but gaining knowledge and understanding of the procedure’s harms empowered her to act against the practice.

A Safe Haven

Jane suggested to her husband that they send their daughters to a safe camp organized by ISF. Initially, her husband was hesitant, but after attending a session for men about the dangers of FGM, he became convinced that he didn’t want their daughters to go through it. Now, both of their daughters have attended the safe camps instead of undergoing FGM.

There are many misconceptions surrounding FGM. Some people still believe that an uncut girl cannot succeed in school or that she is at risk of having children out of wedlock. However, many have started to question this outdated practice.

“I think teachers should be given even more information and encouraged to speak out against FGM,” Jane reflects.

Ending FGM for Good

Some time ago, the daughter of a family Jane knows came to her, saying she was about to be taken for FGM. The girl had tried to resist her parents’ decision, but without success.

“I immediately went to speak with the girl’s parents about the dangers of FGM, and I was able to convince them not to cut their daughter,” Jane recalls.

That girl has since attended a safe camp and avoided being subjected to FGM.

Jane estimates that in her social circle, only about one in ten families still supports FGM.

“I firmly believe that within 10–15 years, no girls in our area will be subjected to FGM anymore.”