FGM stands for Female Genital Mutilation. It is a traditional practice that involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia, or any other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is a violation of human rights and has no health benefits, but rather can cause serious physical and psychological harm, including pain, bleeding, infections, difficulties during childbirth, and even death. FGM is considered a form of gender-based violence and is recognized as a global public health issue that needs to be addressed through education and advocacy. Contrary to what some may think, FGM is carried out and performed by the women in the tribe. It is not discussed with the men.

Historically, well-meaning nonprofits and government agencies have gone into rural areas and told the locals that what they are doing is wrong and expected them to change. This approach hasn’t worked for multiple reasons.

We’ve talked to women who continue the practice with their own girls and they are not bad people. In fact, they are some of the most caring and loving mothers who want the best for their daughters. They have a variety of reasons to continue FGM- some misinformed, such as the belief that it increases health outcomes, and some legitimate such as girls who aren’t cut will be outsiders to the tribe.