Youths in Migori County have formed an anti-Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) network to help fight the vice.
Through the support of the National Anti FGM Board, the network is expected to champion the fight against the menace in both county and sub county levels through engaging the youths.
The engagement will see the youths trained on detection and reporting of cases of FGM in order to aid intervention.
The board’s Programmes Manager Nyerere Kutwa noted that the inclusion of youth in will escalate the war against the illicit act as they are the main victims of the act.
“Youths are the perfect ambassadors to champion the messages of Anti FGM campaigns. We seek to include their vigour to win this war.” Noted Nyerere.
He added: “For us to end FGM, it has to end within this particular generation. Therefore, we are creating a critical mass of young people who will be able to support this campaign.”
His sentiments were echoed by County Gender Secretary Samson Maginga who noted that they were investing in all youth organizations across the county to ensure the vice is completely eradicated.
The youth network launch comes after the Kuria elders cancelled this year’s cut for both boys and girls.
“They have decided to postpone the circumcision until 2024 to allow the County and National Government to do more consultations,” said Maginga.
President Uhuru Kenyatta had indicated his intention to end FGM in the country by end of this year.