Over a hundred girls in Nyamira County are undergoing a ten day alternative rite of passage as the Anti-FGM campaign intensifies.
The girls, who are aged between five and 15 are at a rescue camp at Nyansanda, courtesy of Vinbel Foundation and Nyamira Governor John Nyagarama’s wife Naom.
Speaking at the camp, Nyagarama encouraged residents to say no to FGM as it was a violation of the girls’ rights.
"Over the years, Gusii community has celebrated the cut of the girl child, a rite that has caused mothers pain through severe pains during birth. I now urge you all to join hands and say no to FGM," said Naomi.
She further encouraged locals to bring more girls for the next training next year so that they are empowered on how to be real women of change in society.
"I urge you locals to bring more girls for the next training so that they get empowered through training on how to be real women of change in society without necessarily going through the cut," urged Naomi.
Vinbel Foundation Director Isabella Ongera said the girls will spend two weeks at the camp and will be taken through lessons on FGM, self-esteem, female hygiene and team building.
"As an organisation fighting for the girl child's rights, we have commenced a two week training on self esteem, team building and dangers of FGM," said Ongera.
Keziah Oseko a trainer, said the programme will enable the girls appreciate themselves and not allow their weaknesses define them further, saying the training will help the girls fight FGM so that they are enabled to speak for themselves.