Member of Global Projects and Campaign Committee, Young African Women Congress Network, Judith Kafui Darkey has said that Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a cultural institution, making its eradication a difficult one.
”Some women hold this culture practice dear to their heart and practice it as a way of passing it down to the next generation “.
Speaking on the GTV Breakfast Show, the advocate said Female Genital Mutilation, which is a global concern because of its devastating effect on the overall well-being of victims, is pervasive in many communities in the Upper East Region of Ghana, with Wa recording most of the cases.
“This is so because the parents and guardians of young girls and women who go through the practice believe that it will pave the way for them to be regarded as part of their respective communities”.
She said FGM violates the rights of women and girls and limits their opportunities for the future in health, education and income, saying, ” changing gender and social norms that encouraged FGM were critical and that parents are powerful allies in the effort towards ending the act in the country and further discontented “some parents denounce their children if they fail to undergo FGM”.
While calling for a radical response, she acknowledged efforts by Medical Communities, NGO’s and other stakeholders.
She, however, said a coordinated approach to achieve the intended goal was needed.
Meanwhile, the Young African Women Congress Network is embarking on a 20-day Campaign against Female Genital mutilation across Africa, to opens doors to moe enggement to end Female Genital Mutilation.
