The Chorwa African Inland Church in Marakwet East Sub-county has established a rescue centre to provide a safe haven for girls escaping female genital mutilation (FGM).
Deputy Governor Prof. Grace Cheserek lauded the initiative, terming it a lifeline for vulnerable girls.
“This centre will offer temporary shelter to at least 50 girls who are at risk of undergoing FGM,” said Prof. Cheserek. “It will give them a safe space until the threat has passed and they can return home.”
Speaking during the handover of double-decker beds and bedding worth Sh1.7 million from the United Nations Fund for Population Activities, she described the donation as timely, noting that it comes during a period when the harmful practice is typically carried out in the region.
“There are girls who are strongly against undergoing the rite but have nowhere to run to,” she said. “This support will ensure they are safe, clothed, and cared for.”
Prof. Cheserek reminded the community that FGM is illegal in Kenya and urged residents to report any cases to law enforcement.
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“FGM is a criminal offense. Anyone forcing girls to undergo it should be reported to the authorities so that action can be taken,” she stressed.
The Deputy Governor called on the community to reject all forms of violence, especially those targeting women and children.
“We are appealing to parents and society in general to give children a chance to flourish, as they are the future of our society,” she said. “If I wasn’t given the opportunity, I wouldn’t be the leader and scholar I am today.”
She also revealed that the county is working on an alternative rite of passage programme to replace FGM and uphold cultural identity in a safer and empowering way.
Additionally, the county is seeking funds to establish a broader rescue centre to support other victims of gender-based violence (GBV), including men.
“Even men are suffering silently from domestic violence, but they fear coming forward. We need safe spaces for them as well,” she added.
Paul Masese of the Centre for Enhancing Democracy and Good Governance emphasized the need for community support to sustain the rescue centre.
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“Besides the beds and bedding, UNFPA also donated some food items, but it may not be enough. We call on the community to contribute food and other essentials during the girls’ stay,” said Masese.
Reverend Joseph Cheserek, the church leader overseeing the initiative, affirmed the church’s commitment to caring for the girls.
“We are ready to support them not only with basic needs but also spiritually. The church must be a place of refuge and healing,” said the reverend.
The launch of the rescue centre marks a significant step in protecting the rights of girls in a region long affected by FGM. Stakeholders are now calling on the broader community to support the initiative and ensure that no girl is left behind.
By Felix Njenga
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