Traditionally, the Meru community circumcised both boys and girls almost at the same age, season and time, with similar initiation ceremonies.
The practice of Female Genital Mutilation is performed mostly to girls above the age of six years, indicating FGM has less to do with initiation into adulthood.
We are committed to ending this vice and any related harmful cultural practices in Meru since it has life-long implications to women.
we believe in the power of collaboration
Engaging Elders
The Njuri Ncheke are not only stakeholders of culture but they are also an authoritative figure among the Meru people. By involving them, we are able to effectively engage traditional facets of society.
Fathers
Fathers make important decisions for the family. Many decisions are life long, and they affect their wives and daughters. We engage them on girls and women’s rights so that they can make more informed decisions.
Male Youth
These are the fathers and future elders of the community. By engaging them, we are able to sustainably eradicate harmful cultural practices; and have a strong foundation for a community conscious about women’s rights.
Reformed cutters
Once converted, they are able to convince other cutters to end Harmful Practices. They also break down to the community the effects of FGM from first hand experiences.
Midwives
Midwives play a crucial role during delivery and many cut women’s lives are in their hands. They are credible agents of change since they speak from firsthand experiences.
Women in leadership
Women in such positions yield power. They are critical in championing for women and girls’ affairs using their offices and on individual capacities as role models.
Peaceful demonstration at Laare town, Meru County #FGMKilledJelida
Cathering Thiakunu addressing Ministry of Public Service, Youth & Gender Affairs PS, Sabina Kwekwe on Jelida’s case on 05/02/ 2019 in Narok County
Njuri Ncheke Chest prayers to open community meeting on FGM
Collaboration
We are stronger when we come together. We work with government and like-minded organizations and individuals within and without Meru County to stand up for, and champion for girls’ and women’s rights.
Campaigns
Through mainstream, online and offline campaigns, we have brought to light different Female Genital Mutilation cases in Meru County, and drawn attention to the existence of the harmful cultural practices within the community.
Alternative rites of passage
The national government, through the Anti-FGM Board. The board partnered with Care Health Providers to carry out an ARP in IGEMBE, where over 250 girls graduated after 3 days of intense training
Schools
We are collaborating with institutions of learning to educate children on their rights and sensitize them on the law. Schools also bring together parents and other community members on important days like visiting and parents’ days.