Anti-female Genital Mutilation and Cutting (FGMC) campaign was organized in Isiolo in commemoration of the FGMC Day. The campaign aimed to raise awareness about the harmful effects of FGMC and to advocate for its eradication. This report outlines the experiences and outcomes of the campaign.
Campaign Walk:
The campaign involved a walk through the streets of Isiolo, where participants carried banners and placards with messages condemning FGMC. The walk attracted a large turnout, with men, women, and children from the community joining in solidarity against this harmful practice. Participants chanted slogans and engaged with onlookers to educate them about the dangers of FGMC.
Benefits and Outcomes:
The campaign succeeded in raising awareness about the detrimental effects of FGMC on the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of girls and women. Through the distribution of informational materials, attendees gained a better understanding of the importance of ending FGMC. Community members pledged their support to abandon the practice and protect the rights of girls and women.
Engagement with Survivors:
As part of the campaign, we had the opportunity to interact with survivors of FGMC in Isiolo. Their stories were harrowing yet inspiring, underscoring the need for intensified efforts to support survivors and prevent future incidences of FGMC. By listening to their experiences and offering assistance, we provided a platform for survivors to voice their challenges and seek help.
Remarks from FGMC Board Chairs:
The chairs of the FGMC board commended the organizers and participants for their dedication to the cause. They emphasized the importance of grassroots campaigns in changing societal attitudes towards FGMC and lauded the community for taking a stand against this harmful practice. The board chairs pledged their continued support in advocating for policies and programs that safeguard the rights of girls and women.
The anti-FGMC campaign in Isiolo was a resounding success, bringing together the community in a united front against FGMC. Through education, advocacy, and survivor engagement, the campaign made significant strides in raising awareness and mobilizing support for the eradication of FGMC. Moving forward, it is essential to sustain these efforts and work collaboratively to ensure the well-being and rights of all individuals are protected.