Kenya banned female genital mutilation in 2011, yet the practice persists in some pastoralist communities. Lasting change comes from within — through dialogue.
Female genital mutilation (FGM) causes lifelong physical and psychological harm to girls and women. Kenya outlawed it through the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act of 2011, and national prevalence has fallen. Yet in some pastoralist communities the practice continues — often in secret, and increasingly on younger girls. Ending FGM in these communities requires more than a law. It requires changed minds.
Why the practice persists
Families who continue FGM are rarely trying to harm their daughters. They believe — often sincerely — that it is required by religion, protects a girl's honour, or makes her marriageable. Mothers and grandmothers who underwent the practice may fear their daughters will be rejected if they do not. Understanding these beliefs, without judgement, is the starting point for change.
The health consequences
The World Health Organization recognises FGM as a violation of the human rights of girls and women, with no health benefits. Consequences can include severe pain, bleeding, infections, complications in childbirth and long-term psychological trauma. Sharing this information — through health workers and women who have experienced complications — is a powerful part of dialogue.
Dialogue, not confrontation
VOPA's approach is built on respect. We create safe spaces where different groups can talk openly:
- Religious leaders clarify that FGM is not a religious obligation — one of the most influential messages in Muslim-majority communities.
- Elders discuss how traditions evolve and which values the community wants to keep.
- Mothers and grandmothers share experiences, often for the first time.
- Young men state publicly that they will marry uncut girls — removing a major source of pressure on families.
- Girls learn about their rights and where to seek help.
Connecting FGM to wider gender-based violence
FGM is part of a broader pattern of gender-based violence (GBV) that also includes physical and sexual abuse, early marriage and psychological harm. Much of this goes unreported because of stigma. Alongside FGM dialogues, VOPA works on GBV awareness and safe reporting pathways for survivors.
Signs of change
Change can be seen when a community makes a public declaration to abandon FGM, when elders begin to speak against it, and when families feel confident that uncut daughters will be respected. These shifts take time — but once a community changes its norm together, the change tends to last.
Join the movement
Every girl has the right to grow up whole and healthy. Learn more about our Human Rights Advocacy programme, or support our work to protect girls across the Horn of Africa.
VOPA builds peace, resilience and dignity with communities in Kenya, Somalia and Ethiopia. About us
