The Kenya Anti-FGM Board chairperson Linah Kilimo believes the fight against female genital mutilation cannot be worn by without support from the public.
The board which Kilimo chairs, conducted a one-day roadshow in the fight against FGM covering several areas in Kisii and Nyamira counties on Thursday.
Speaking during the launching ceremony at Ekerenyo, Kilimo said though the government is committed in eradicating the crime, the local community also has a major role to play in combating the practice.
“I appreciate the incredible support we are getting from the government to fight this menace and we have made an impact so far. This is a tough war but together we can win,” she said.
“As a board and government or even the office of women representative, we cannot win this war alone. It’s tough than even fighting terrorism because it’s cultural. We need more support from the community and that is what I am yearning for,” she said.
She urged locals to embrace the fight and own it by reaching more people who are still rigid to change and move with the contemporary concept.
“We have pieces of legislation and we have also done campaigns but the community is the soul decision maker. You have to stand with us so that we make those who are still rigid aware of the contemporary situation. FGM is not good for our girls and it affects their future especially when giving birth,” she said.