Outrage and Action Erupt as FGM Persists in Elgeyo Marakwet

Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya - A wave of outrage and calls for action has swept through Elgeyo Marakwet County following a series of horrific incidents related to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The recent surge in violence against anti-FGM crusaders and the brutal circumcision of young girls has ignited public anger and a renewed commitment to eradicate this harmful practice.

Attacks on Anti-FGM Activists:

• Catholic Priest Assaulted: A Catholic priest attempting to stop an FGM ceremony in Kamoi village was brutally attacked by a group of men. He sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.
• Leaders Condemn Violence: Local leaders, including Elgeyo Marakwet Deputy Governor Prof. Grace Cheserek, have strongly condemned the attacks on anti-FGM activists. They have called for swift action by law enforcement authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Brutal Mutilation of Girls:

• 15 Girls Circumcised: At least 15 girls in Kamoi village were reportedly subjected to FGM in a single ceremony. The girls, some as young as 10, were allegedly held captive and forced to undergo the painful and illegal procedure.
• Police Officer Killed: In a tragic turn of events, a police officer responding to reports of the FGM ceremony in Kamoi was killed by a gang protecting the circumcisors. This incident highlights the dangerous lengths to which some individuals are willing to go to uphold this harmful tradition.

Renewed Calls for Action:

• Community Engagement: Civil society organizations and government agencies are intensifying efforts to engage communities in dialogues about the dangers of FGM and the importance of protecting girls' rights.
• Legal Measures: The Kenyan government has been urged to strengthen enforcement of laws prohibiting FGM and to provide adequate resources for investigations and prosecutions.
• Alternative Rites: Initiatives promoting alternative rite of passage ceremonies that celebrate girls' transition to womanhood without resorting to harmful practices are gaining momentum.

The recent events in Elgeyo Marakwet serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing fight against FGM in Kenya. While progress has been made, deeply ingrained cultural practices and lack of awareness continue to pose challenges. However, the outpouring of public condemnation and the renewed commitment from various stakeholders offer a glimmer of hope for a future where girls in Elgeyo Marakwet and across Kenya can grow up free from the harmful and lasting effects of FGM.