Kambi Ya Wasichana Program
- September 1, 2023
- Staff
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Female Genital Mutilation is a practice deeply rooted in cultural traditions among the Kuria Community. The World Health Organisation defines it as comprising all procedures that involve removal of parts of the external female genital organs for non-medical reasons.
Kuria communities use it as a rite of passage and as a way of enhancing hygiene and aesthetics, sexual maturity, marriageability and social belonging. Girls are mostly subjected to the cut during school holidays. They have a long period away from school and hence perceived to have time to heal from the procedure without scrutiny. There was an increased risk for girls during the August 2023 holiday as schools in Kenya closed for about a month.
Mama Agnes Ochilo initiated a program dubbed “Kambi Ya Wasichana”, a week long event undertaken in the month of August at Moi Nyabohanse Girls’ High School in Kuria West Sub County. The program entailed undergoing Alternative Rites of Passage (ARP) where more than 250 girls were trained as peer leaders so that they can engage other girls in their respective institutions, homes and households over eradication of Gender-Based violence, Sexual Gender Based Violence, Teenage pregnancies and Early marriages.
On the eve of graduation ceremony, the First lady organized a powerful way to facilitate open conversations about Female Genital Mutilation through a Round Bonfire Event. Participants gathered around a bonfire in a circle and shared their thoughts, experiences, and insights regarding female genital mutilation (FGM). This informal setting encouraged honest dialogue and helped raise awareness about the harmful effects of FGM while fostering a sense of community among participants. The discussions were respectful, sensitive and focused on
promoting education and change.
Mama Agnes Ochilo was accompanied by 5 other First Spouses; H.E Sabina Mwadime of Taita Taveta County, H.E Agnes Ntutu of Narok County, H.E Edna Lenku of Kajiado County, H.E Emily Nyaribo of Nyamira County and H.E Almasa Guyo of Marsabit County.
