Over 300 girls drawn from the Pokot, Njemps and Tugen communities graduated on Sunday from the alternative rite of passage. This exercise was carried out instead of the traditional FGM at Loboi Area in Marigat District.The girls, who went for 3 weeks of training, were taught on morals and behaviors as opposed to the traditional way of undergoing a cut.
Baringo County Women Representative Grace Kiptui said that leaders in the area will continue fighting for the elimination of FGM. Anti-FGM board chair Linah Jebii said perpetrators risk a fine of 50,000 shillings or six months imprisonment. According to a report by Women Rights Institute,FGM genital mutilation is still high among communities in Pokot and Baringo Counties.
The exercise has been persistent despite government’s law enforcement and anti-FGM campaigns against the exercise.
