Majority of girls in Meru undergo FGM

About 75 out of 100 girls go through female genital mutilation (FGM) either willingly or unwillingly in Meru County, despite the fact that the practice is outlawed.

This was said during the launch of an anti-FGM campaign in the county which is expected to run for the three days.

Anti FGM Parastatal board chair and crusader Linah Jebii Kilimo noted that Igembe residents were still embracing the cut and needed to be sensitized on the law against it.

“We should sensitize communities on the laws against FGM and teach our children to say “NO” to the deed,” she said.

Kilimo said that the rising cases of FGM in Meru, especially in Igembe, made them launch the three-day campaign in the area.

She said that they will educate the community on the laws regarding the vice and no one will be spared if they continue to practice the illegal cut.

“FGM is like robbery with violence. It robs girls and women of their rights,” she said.

She stated that some of the girls escape and go into hiding, adding that they would work in partnership with the government to ensure the hiding places are safe for the girls.

“We will ensure the children of this country, especially girls, will continue to enjoy their rights,” she noted.

Parents were urged to stop the outdated practice that was practiced by Nchuri Ncheke back in 1956, and instead to educate their children for the sake of their futures.

Girls were also encouraged to put more effort in their education and resist the backward practice.

Peter Kimani, Igembe North Sub-County police boss said they would not relent on the issue, promising to arrest and prosecute parents and guardians who force girls to pass through FGM.

He advised young girls to report to authorities if they suspect plans to put them through the barbaric act.

The three-day Anti-FGM Campaign will end on Friday.

By Josiah Mugo / Written by Jemimah Gathoni