Marsabit residents urged to join fight against female genital mutilation

Residents of Marsabit County have been urged to work together in the fight against female genital mutilation, with a warning that those involved in the practice will face legal action.

The call was made by Abdikadir Adan, the Regional Human Rights Services Coordinator at the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) in Wajir.

Speaking to journalists after a meeting with non-governmental organisations and community-based organisations in Marsabit County, Adan urged residents to take the lead in efforts to end the practice.

He said the Constitution of Kenya recognises female genital mutilation as a violation of human rights and called for legal action against those found involved in the practice.

Adan described FGM as a harmful practice that can cause serious health, psychological and social consequences for survivors. He urged residents to reject cultural practices that promote or justify the practice.

Meanwhile, KNCHR Garissa Regional Human Rights Services Coordinator Ibrahim Abdi Kassim called on communities in Marsabit to work closely with various stakeholders to challenge cultural practices that contribute to the continuation of FGM.

Kassim said Marsabit is among the counties reporting high levels of FGM, putting the prevalence at 83 per cent.

He said the situation requires greater attention and concerted action by communities, leaders and relevant institutions to ensure the practice is brought to an end.