President William Ruto has urged Kenyan men to play a role in protecting women from Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), emphasizing the need for collective responsibility.
Speaking at the launch of the Council of Governors Women Caucus, Ruto stressed that men should take the lead in opposing the harmful practice, even if for selfish reasons.
Ruto highlighted the detrimental effects of FGM on women, noting that it undermines their confidence, effectiveness, and poses numerous challenges. He urged men to champion the cause against FGM, emphasizing that they have a responsibility to protect women from this harmful practice.
“I want to tell men to come forward and protect our women from FGM even if it is for selfish reasons, FGM destroys women. Makes them less confident, less effective and creates many challenges around it.
“Men should be champions against FGM because you know what it is. It destroys everything that would be good in a woman. We are the ones who enjoy,” Ruto said.
The President also called on women from regions with high FGM prevalence to actively work towards ending the practice. He emphasized the importance of women taking a stand and advocating for change within their communities.
The Kenya Demographic Health Survey 2022 says FGM prevealence is at 15 per cent. Of the 22 counties practicing FGM, Garissa county has the highest prevalence at 83 per cent. The Somali community leads at 98 per cent, followed by the Samburu at 94 per cent.