Isiolo: Women leaders in Laikipia, Isiolo, Samburu, and Marsabit counties have appealed to both the County and the National governments to intensify efforts of fighting Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and child marriages. The leaders emphasized the need for stronger government intervention to make the campaign against these practices more successful.
According to Kenya News Agency, the women leaders from various organizations expressed concern over the minimal impact of the current multi-sectoral approach to combating FGM and child marriages. They called for the two levels of government, particularly the counties, to develop policies that bolster and support efforts against these practices, which they described as sluggish and lacking vigor.
Speaking in Isiolo town, representatives from the four counties highlighted the necessity for enhanced gender-related policy formulation and increased budget allocations. These measures are seen as crucial for raising awareness and enforcing existing laws. They stressed that the ingrained cultural practices in these regions require concerted efforts involving both genders, as well as effective sensitization forums to promote behavioral change among participants in these traditional practices.
Ms. Nuria Gollo, a women's rights advocate from Marsabit, pointed out that reduced donor support has weakened financial resources needed for community education and law enforcement efforts. She disclosed that some families continue the FGM practice by taking girls to Ethiopia and Somalia or having the procedure done medically under anesthesia.
Dr. Hellen Gathogo from Laikipia urged women-led organizations to collaborate on joint strategies rather than working in isolation. She called on county governments to establish rescue homes for girls fleeing these practices, instead of relying solely on non-governmental organizations.
Ms. Rebecca Lorosoi, a nominated Member of the Samburu County Assembly, mentioned that Samburu's county government recently adopted a gender policy. However, she emphasized the need for allocated funds to ensure its implementation.
In Isiolo, Ms. Zamzam Hussein described FGM and child marriages as increasing threats and cautioned against using Alternative Justice Systems (AJS) to handle such cases, which she criticized as being too lenient. She reported that FGM perpetrators are using new methods to evade detection, necessitating that all stakeholders stay informed about changing trends to effectively combat these vices.