Our Expert Bella Masanya Has Personally Benefited from Anti-FGM work

International Solidarity Foundation’s (ISF) advisor on gender-based violence, Bella Masanya, envisions a future where women and girls are free. To achieve this, the support of men and boys is also needed. 

“For me, this work is very personal because I have personally benefited from similar efforts. That’s why I am now paying it forward.” 

This is how Bella Masanya, an advisor with ISF, describes her relationship with her work. Masanya comes from Nyamira county in Kenya, where female genital mutilation (FGM) is very common. She describes herself as a product of the work done by those who came before her. 

“My mother learned about the harms of FGM from another organization that was raising awareness in Nyamira. That’s how I escaped this harmful practice. I hope that now, another young girl in Nyamira benefits in the same way from the work we’re doing at ISF.” 

Women’s Rights in Kenya 

ISF works in Kenya to end FGM and domestic violence, as well as to promote women’s work and economic empowerment. As an advisor on gender-based violence, Masanya provides support and assistance to ISF’s partner organizations in the fight against FGM and violence in Kisii and Nyamira. 

In Kenya, women’s position in society is generally weaker than that of men. Especially in the areas where ISF operates, women are expected to remain silent in public spaces, with men and boys taking on the role of speaking out. Women often lack the power or experience to make decisions about the use of family property. Additionally, violence against women is unfortunately widespread. 

However, Masanya believes that progress toward gender equality is slowly being made. For example, the enrollment of girls in schools has increased. 

“I think Kenya has made some progress in improving the position of women. But we still struggle with large cultural and social issues, as well as norms and barriers that prevent women from fully enjoying their rights.” 

Men as Part of the Gender Equality Work 

Masanya firmly believes that men are the key to achieving gender equality. In Kenya, men are still the primary decision-makers at the family, workplace, and state levels. Therefore, their voices are crucial in the gender equality movement. 

“Women can till the land and gain independent income. But ultimately, men own the land and decide how the money is spent within the family. I don’t believe we can achieve gender equality without getting men on our side as allies,” Masanya explains. 

Freedom is the goal 

When asked about the future of women’s rights, Masanya’s face lights up. She envisions a future where women and girls are free. 

“Free to express themselves. Free from fear. Free from the threat posed by the men around us. I want to see a future where women and girls are free from harmful practices. I want to see a future where femicide ends. I want to see a future where women and girls can live to their potential, and a future where women have full control over their own bodies.”