A tragic incident in Kocholwo village, Keiyo South Sub County, has reignited concerns about the dangers of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
A 34-year-old pregnant mother of three lost her life after being forced by her husband to undergo the outlawed practice, while her 45-year-old co-wife narrowly escaped death after experiencing excessive bleeding.
Forced FGM Ends in Tragedy
Keiyo South Deputy County Commissioner Diana Wekesa reported that the husband summoned a circumciser to their home, subjecting both women to the illegal procedure. The pregnant woman succumbed to severe bleeding, while her co-wife was rushed to Kamwosor Subcounty Hospital and is currently receiving treatment.
The grim events unfolded as preparations were being made for the sons of the deceased to undergo circumcision. According to reports, the family adhered to a cultural belief that uncircumcised women should not cook for their circumcised sons, prompting the husband to force the ritual upon the two women.
Swift Action by Authorities
Upon realizing the procedure had gone wrong, the circumciser alerted local authorities. She has since been detained and handed over to Kaptagat Police Station. However, the husband fled the scene and is currently being pursued by law enforcement.
Deputy Commissioner Wekesa urged residents to report any planned FGM activities to authorities to prevent further loss of lives.
A Call to Abandon Harmful Traditions
Wekesa emphasized that FGM remains illegal in Kenya due to its severe physical and psychological consequences. She reminded the community that the outlawing of FGM was based on extensive evidence of its dangers, particularly to women’s health and well-being.
“People didn’t just wake up one day and decide to do away with this traditional practice. The decision was informed by the harmful effects of FGM,” she stated.
She urged the community to abandon outdated practices and embrace modern, safer cultural practices that respect human rights and dignity.
National Efforts Against FGM
This tragic case highlights the persistent challenge of eradicating FGM in Kenya, despite robust laws and campaigns aimed at ending the practice. Authorities continue to work with communities to raise awareness of the risks associated with FGM and the importance of protecting women and girls from such harmful traditions.
The incident serves as a somber reminder of the need for collective efforts to eliminate gender-based violence and ensure justice for the victims.
