The StopCut Project: Why We want to End Female Genital Mutilation.
If FGM practices continue at recent levels, 68 million girls will be cut between 2015 and 2030 in 25 countries where Female Genital Mutilation is routinely practised and more recent data are available – UNFPA, 2020.
Female Genital Mutilation is the partial or complete removal of the external female genitalia for no medical or religious reason. It is a precursor to a lifelong health and psychological complication that causes irreparable and irreversible harm to its victims.
Female Genital Mutilation originated from ancient beliefs and is practised among many African cultures today. Reports show that an estimate of over 200 million girls has been mutilated – UNFPA, 2020.
In Nigeria, 25% of women and girls between the ages of 15-49 have undergone at least one form of FGM, with the highest prevalence in Ekiti, Ebonyi, Oyo, Osun and Imo States. Female Genital Mutilation is associated with an increased risk of adverse maternal health outcomes, including obstetric fistula that negatively impacts child health and contributes to child mortality. Other complications resulting from FGM can include excessive bleeding, severe pain and infection.
With support from the UN Trust Fund and Spotlight Initiative, HACEY Health Initiative is executing the StopCut project. This project is a three (3) year project to collaborate with stakeholders across government agencies, Non-Governmental Organizations and local communities to end FGM in Ekiti, Oyo and Osun States where FGM cases are highly prevalent in Nigeria.
We need continuing and coordinated efforts led by survivors, community leaders, and security agencies to uproot this practice.
Written by Tomiyin Ayibiowu.