Within the Maasai community, many girls—some younger than ten years old—are subjected to the deeply harmful cultural practice of female genital mutilation (FGM). Traditionally regarded as a rite of passage from childhood to womanhood, FGM is associated with notions of respect, maturity, and readiness for marriage, regardless of a girl’s age. Once circumcised, a girl is often considered eligible for marriage, effectively ending her childhood and limiting her future opportunities.
The practice is rooted in long-standing cultural beliefs, including the notion that FGM promotes a woman’s fidelity within a polygamous marriage and reduces sexual desire. Social norms and community pressure demand conformity, and marriage is viewed as an expectation for all girls. Despite being illegal in Kenya, FGM remains widespread among the Maasai, with an estimated 10,000 girls scheduled for circumcision each year—most commonly during the months of April, August, and December when school holidays make the practice easier to carry out.
FGM has severe and lifelong consequences, including chronic pain, infections, complications during childbirth, psychological trauma, and in some cases, death. Beyond the physical harm, it represents a profound violation of girls’ and women’s human rights and is a significant contributor to the ongoing marginalization of women and girls in affected communities.
The project seeks to end FGM within the community through comprehensive awareness campaigns and health education seminars that address both the immediate dangers and the long-term social impact of the practice. By framing FGM as a human rights issue rather than solely a cultural tradition, the initiative works to challenge deeply embedded beliefs and foster dialogue that promotes dignity, safety, and equality for girls.
In addition to protecting girls, the project is committed to empowerment through education. Girls at risk are supported with access to schooling and essential materials, offering them alternatives to early marriage and pathways toward independence. Equally important is engaging the broader community to transform attitudes and behaviors. Target groups include traditional leaders and elders, parents, youth, women, teachers, social workers, medical practitioners, and even former circumcisers—recognizing that sustainable change requires collective ownership and participation.
By combining education, advocacy, and community engagement, the project aims to protect girls, shift cultural norms, and help create a future where Maasai girls can grow up healthy, educated, and free to choose their own paths.
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