Youths from the Kuria community have been encouraged to follow the example set by Generation Z in advocating for national reforms, particularly in combating harmful cultural practices like Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
In recent months, youth-led movements across Kenya have successfully challenged corruption and halted controversial financial legislation. Gender and youth stakeholders now call for similar activism within the Kuria community and beyond, aiming to eradicate FGM, which remains prevalent in several communities.
Benter Ombwayo, Coordinator of Micontrap-Kenya, emphasized the potential of young people to drive societal change. “Kenyan youths have gained international recognition as agents of change. We need to harness that same energy to eliminate FGM not just in Kuria but across other communities where it persists,” Ombwayo stated.
Ombwayo highlighted that the same enthusiasm used to defeat a punitive bill and influence government budgeting should now be directed towards ending retrogressive cultural practices. “Youths, being more educated and decisive, can compel older generations to embrace progress and ensure future generations are spared from harmful traditions,” she added.
This message was conveyed at Nyabirongo Maranatha Church in Mabera sub-county during a meeting with Kuria youths about a new five-year program initiated by Micontrap-Kenya. The program aims to empower rural youth to advocate for societal changes and challenge those who continue to practice FGM.
George Alambo, an officer with Micontrap-Kenya, reiterated the commitment to collaborate with youth groups and change-makers to combat FGM. “Our focus has shifted to leveraging the influence of youth to push for generational change and prevent future cases of this harmful practice,” Alambo explained.
Micontrap-Kenya has been actively combating FGM and Sexual Gender-Based Violence among the Kuria, Maasai, and Muslim communities in Migori and Narok counties for over a decade. Alambo noted that recent demonstrations by Generation Z have inspired this renewed effort.
Youth mobilizers Everline Nanyokia and Steve Chacha, who attended the town hall meeting, expressed their readiness to engage. “Previous efforts mainly targeted elders and government officials. Directly involving youths will significantly advance our mission to end FGM,” Nanyokia said.
Lucy Rioba, Mabera Sub-county Public Health Officer, reported that FGM affects three out of five women and girls in Kuria, leading to high rates of gender-based abuse. “We are prepared to collaborate with Kuria youths, especially as we approach the circumcision season from August to December, which often sees a spike in abuse cases,” Rioba noted.
She also pointed out the negative consequences of FGM, including increased teenage pregnancies, early marriages, school dropouts, and family neglect.
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