Nairobi: Residents of Muutine, Igembe Central sub-county, Meru County, turned up to commemorate the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), sending a strong message against the harmful practice in the community. The event attracted women, men, youth groups, church leaders, and local elders in a show of solidarity against FGM, a practice recognised globally as a violation of human rights as well as a threat to the health and dignity of girls and women, on Friday, February 6, 2026.
According to Kenya News Agency, the gathering in Muutine was part of a broader effort to eradicate FGM in the region. Community leaders emphasized the importance of educating people about the negative impacts of FGM and promoting alternative rites of passage that do not involve harmful practices. The participation of church leaders and local elders highlighted the community’s collective commitment to ending this practice.
The event also featured testimonies from survivors who shared their experiences and the challenges they faced. These personal stories underscored the urgent need for continued advocacy and education. Youth groups played an active role in the event, demonstrating their dedication to fostering change and ensuring a safer future for the next generation.
The residents’ collective efforts reflect a growing movement within the community to uphold the rights and well-being of girls and women. The event served as a platform to plan ongoing initiatives and collaborations aimed at eliminating FGM and supporting affected individuals.
