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Youth from Kuria community have been encouraged to borrow from the Gen Z-led demonstrations that have successfully influenced national discourse on issues such as corruption and financial policy to fight Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

Gender and youth stakeholders are calling for the same level of activism to address FGM, a vice still prevalent in Kuria and other communities.

Benter Ombwayo, Coordinator of Micontrap-Kenya, emphasised the importance of replicating this proactive approach to combat FGM. “Kenyan youth have positioned themselves as change agents on the international stage. We need that same energy directed towards eradicating FGM, not just in Kuria, but across all communities where this practice continues,” Ombwayo stated.

Mobilisation tactics

Ombwayo stated that the same mobilisation tactics used to challenge harmful legislation should be applied to dismantling outdated cultural practices. “Youth, being more educated and capable of influencing change, can drive older generations to abandon these practices and protect future generations from enduring similar challenges,” she added.

During a meeting held at Nyabirongo Maranatha Church in Mabera sub-county, Micontrap-Kenya outlined a new five-year program aimed at engaging Kuria youths to spearhead the fight against FGM. The program will focus on empowering youths in rural areas to advocate for societal changes and hold perpetrators accountable.

George Alambo, an officer with Micontrap-Kenya, pledged to collaborate with youth groups and change-makers to leverage their influence in combating FGM. “Our strategy now involves harnessing the energy of the youth to challenge the older generation and prevent new cases of FGM,” Alambo said.