Cases of female genital mutilation (FGM) and early pregnancies have seen a significant decline in Narok County, signaling a positive shift in efforts to protect girls’ rights and promote education.
According to recent data, FGM cases have dropped from 78 percent in 2021 to 50 percent in 2025, while early pregnancies have reduced from 50 percent to 28 percent over the same period.
The Deputy County Commissioner for Central Narok, Abdi Shakur Ali, attributed the progress to the combined efforts of stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society, and local leaders.
“This success is a result of continuous sensitization and collaboration with various stakeholders. Communities are beginning to see the long-term harm caused by these outdated practices,” said Ali.
He emphasized that while the figures show progress, more still needs to be done to eradicate FGM and child marriages completely.
“Female genital mutilation is not just a harmful cultural practice—it is a violation of human rights. It contributes heavily to early pregnancies and child marriages, which in turn derail the education and future of our girls,” he added.
ALSO READ:
TSC, teacher unions meeting over SHA fails to be bear fruit as stalemate reigns
FGM and early pregnancies have long disrupted the education of girls in Narok, with many forced to drop out of school due to complications, stigma, or forced marriages. In response, various advocacy groups have intensified efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of these practices.
Narok County’s recent adoption of the Anti-FGM Policy Implementation Matrix is also being hailed as a milestone in advancing gender equality and girls’ rights.
“This policy framework is a powerful step forward. It not only strengthens the fight against FGM but also opens pathways for girls and women to access education, healthcare, and decent work,” said one of the civil society representatives involved in the initiative.
The county leadership has vowed to maintain momentum and ensure enforcement of anti-FGM laws, while also empowering communities through education and economic opportunities for women.
By Kimutai Langat
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
