Within One Generation
The United Nations states “there are reasons to think that female genital mutilation could end in a single generation.“ We agree.
Over the past decade, we have supported scalable, evidence-based strategies and programs in West Pokot, Kenya that have resulted in a precipitous drop in the prevalence of FGM by more than 90 percent in some communities. We have successfully shown that FGM can be eliminated and, when it is, girls and their communities can thrive. This success has formed the basis for what we will do now and in the future.
In 1999, the prevalence rate of FGM in Chepareria, West Pokot was 95%.
By 2020, the prevalence rate was below 10%.
“In 1999, the prevalence rate of FGM was over 95 percent in Chepareria area of West Pokot. Today, it’s less than 10 percent.”
- Moses Chepkonga, World Vision Program Manager Kenya Big Dream
We know how to solve these issues – funding is needed to expand what works into new areas and new communities.
The United Nations estimates that achieving the goal of eliminating FGM by 2030 will require about $2.4 billion — roughly 100 dollars per girl affected — over the next 10 years. In Kenya, an estimated $30 million dollars is needed to expand into 5 counties where the FGM prevalence rates are 80% and above. In real terms, 8-9 out of 10 girls in these communities are being cut and married off as child brides. By fundraising to support interventions that work, we can ensure that 0 out of 10 girls undergo this practice. In the areas where we work, FGM is intrinsically linked to child marriage, and our mission to fight them both utilizes a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of these harmful traditional practices, creating more opportunities for girls to succeed.