Gender stakeholders in Migori County have called for intensified community sensitization to combat harmful cultural practices and Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) in the Kuria community.
The appeal was made during a stakeholders’ forum organized by the Migori Community Traditional Negative Practice Mitigation Organization (MICONTRAP) in Mabera Sub County.
The community based organization works to eliminate harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM), early marriages, and gender based violence while promoting girls’ education, counselling services, and the protection of women’s and children’s rights.
The meeting brought together clan elders, religious leaders, health workers, children’s officers, and administrators to discuss ways of addressing persistent cultural practices affecting women and children.
Speaking at the event, MICONTRAP chairperson Ms Coleta Boke said the initiative focuses on empowering young people through education on sexuality and gender issues.
“Our goal is to equip young people with knowledge on sexual and gender matters so that they can make informed decisions and become responsible members of society,” Ms Coleta Boke said.
She explained that the programme uses youth ambassadors who engage communities through songs, drama, and public performances to spread awareness on the dangers of FGM and other harmful practices.
Border escape routes
Ntimaru Sub County Administrator Mr Sianu Wambura said resistance from some members of the community continues to frustrate efforts to eradicate FGM.
“Some perpetrators take advantage of the porous border and flee to Tanzania whenever cases involving children are reported,” Mr Sianu Wambura said.
He also blamed poor parenting and inadequate housing arrangements for contributing to cases of incest and teenage pregnancies.
“In some homes, boys and girls are forced to share sleeping spaces because of limited housing facilities, exposing them to risks of abuse,” he noted.
Mr Sianu Wambura warned that incest cases are treated as defilement offences and offenders face legal action once arrested.
Stronger guidance
Pastor Gilbert Chacha of Maranatha Church condemned sodomy and called on families and religious institutions to strengthen moral guidance among children and youth.
“The church remains committed to protecting children and promoting moral values within society,” he said.
Assistant Chief of Kiegonga Sub location Mrs Robi Wilkister applauded the programme for creating positive change in the community, especially in the fight against FGM and school dropout among girls.
She observed that poverty and harmful traditions continue to derail children’s education and urged parents to play a more active role in raising and supporting their children.
“Under the Children’s Act 2022, both parents have equal responsibility in ensuring the welfare of children,” Mrs Robi Wilkister said.
She further expressed concern over increasing cases of irresponsible sexual behaviour among teenagers and emphasized the need for guidance, counselling, and community support.
FGM still persists secretly
Children’s Officer Ms Janet Robi noted that although awareness campaigns have reduced open FGM ceremonies, the practice still persists secretly.
“Previously, FGM was conducted openly with celebrations and dances, but perpetrators have now shifted to carrying out the practice at night to evade authorities,” she said.
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Stakeholders at the meeting pledged to strengthen collaboration with local communities, government agencies, and religious institutions to end harmful cultural practices and safeguard the rights of women and children in Kuria.
By Kimutai Langat
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