Hibo Wardere, survivor of FGM, shares her emotional story. The podcast discusses the prevalence of FGM globally, including legal aspects and recent developments. It highlights efforts in Kenya to reduce FGM rates and the importance of education in ending the practice.
FGM affects over 230 million women globally, with Africa having the highest prevalence.
Religious and cultural justifications in some regions hinder efforts to end FGM.
Deep dives
The Global Issue of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) affects over 230 million girls and women worldwide, with 3 million at risk annually. Africa has the highest prevalence, followed by Asia and the Middle East. Despite being declared a human rights violation by the World Health Organization, FGM remains culturally and religiously significant in some regions.
Current Situation in the Gambia
In the Gambia, where FGM was outlawed in 2015, there is a controversial push to repeal the ban driven by religious and cultural justifications. The debate amongst MPs and the public is divided, with Muslim clerics arguing for the practice's cultural and religious importance, overshadowing women's rights concerns.
Challenges and Progress Towards Ending FGM
Efforts to end FGM face challenges due to deep-rooted beliefs and community resistance. Interventions aim to educate, engage men and boys as allies, provide alternative rites of passage, and empower survivors to speak out. Despite setbacks like the COVID-19 pandemic, the fight against FGM continues through resilience and innovative strategies.
Female genital mutilation affects around 230 million women and girls globally, with rates highest in Africa. FGM is considered a human rights violation and has no health benefits. That’s according to World Health Organisation. Hibo Wardere, a survivor from Somalia, recounts her ordeal and discusses the importance of education in ending the practice.
The Gambia banned FGM in 2015, but it could be about to reverse this. BBC journalist Esther Ogola, who’s based in Nairobi, explains why. We also hear how Kenya has more than halved its victims - and discuss the likelihood of the practice ending by 2030, which is the UN’s goal.
Note: This episode contains some graphic descriptions of FGM.