Investing in elimination of FGM will boost socio-economic growth

Anti-Female Genital Mutilation Board (Anti-FGM Board), CEO Bernadette Loloju (center), Unicef Child Protection Specialist Haithar Ahmed (Centre), and Anti-FGM Board Chairperson Agnes Pereyio, flag off kits for girls at risk of FGM and child marriages in 12 counties in October 22, 2020 [David Njaaga, Standard]

Female genital mutilation is a harmful cultural practice with a high economic burden and life-long health consequences for survivors. The financial cost of healthcare for women living with conditions caused by FGM puts a significant strain on health systems and budgets, particularly in counties with high FGM prevalence rates. The negative health outcomes of FGM encumber women’s and girls’ ability to meaningfully participate in society, negatively impacting on their productivity and entrenching further the cycle of poverty and inequality that drives the practice.