Rescue Maasai Girls from Female Genital Mutilation

Hello incredible supporters,

We are excited to share some impactful updates and upcoming initiatives from FGM Zero, which aim to strengthen our efforts against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and support at-risk girls in Kenya. Your support continues to be the backbone of our mission, enabling us to protect and empower young girls like Naomi.

Naomi K’s Journey

Naomi K., the 15-year-old Maasai girl whom we rescued from the threat of FGM in April, 2022 now dreams of becoming a lawyer to fight for justice and protect others from FGM, reflecting her courage and determination to make a difference.

Naomi’s father intended to subject her to the brutal and illegal practice to enhance her dowry value, a common yet devastating motive in the Maasai communities of Kenya. However, Naomi, aware of the dangers and legal implications of FGM, sought help, and was relocated to our secure Safe House in rural Kenya, just in time to avoid being taken by her father. The safe house serves as a refuge for girls at risk, providing a secure environment where they can heal and continue their education without fear.

Upcoming Initiatives

1. Legal letter campaign

We are thrilled to announce our new initiative, the legal letter campaign, a crucial step in our fight against FGM. This initiative is designed to raise awareness about the legal consequences of FGM among parents and guardians, thus discouraging the practice. Our pro bono lawyer in Nairobi is currently drafting a comprehensive template letter that outlines the severe legal ramifications of FGM in Kenya.

The letter will explain in clear, straightforward language that FGM is a criminal offense under Kenyan law, punishable by imprisonment and heavy fines. It will highlight the legal protections in place for girls and the penalties for those who engage in or support this practice. These letters will be distributed to school-going girls to take home to their parents. By informing families of the legal stakes, we aim to create a deterrent effect, reducing the incidence of FGM and protecting more girls from undergoing this harmful procedure.

Our legal letter campaign also seeks to empower communities with knowledge. By understanding the legal framework, parents and guardians can make informed decisions that prioritize the health and rights of their daughters. This campaign will be rolled out in collaboration with local schools, community leaders, and churches, ensuring a wide reach and significant impact.

1. School holiday programs

To further support the empowerment and well-being of at-risk girls, we are organizing school holiday programs during school breaks. These programs are designed to provide a safe and enriching environment for girls during periods when they might otherwise be vulnerable to FGM.

The school holiday programs will offer a variety of activities focused on personal development, skill-building, and community engagement. Activities will include educational workshops, sports, arts and crafts, and leadership training. Through these programs, we aim to strengthen the girls' resilience, boost their confidence, and ensure they remain engaged and supported during times away from school.

Educational workshops will cover a range of topics, including health and hygiene, self-defense, and career planning. These sessions will equip the girls with essential knowledge and skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Sports and physical activities will promote teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness, while arts and crafts will encourage creativity and self-expression. Leadership training will help the girls develop the skills needed to become future community leaders and advocates for change.

By providing these enriching experiences, we aim to create a supportive community where girls can thrive. The School Holiday Programs are not just about keeping the girls safe; they are about empowering them to reach their full potential and become agents of change in their own right.

The Impact of your Support

Naomi’s aspiration to become a lawyer underscores the transformative power of your support. Her story is a testament to what can be achieved with timely intervention and sustained support. Your contributions have made it possible for Naomi to escape a dangerous situation and pursue her dreams.

Funding is essential to cover boarding school fees and maintain a safe haven for the girls during school vacations. Your support ensures that we can continue to provide these crucial services and expand our reach to protect even more girls at risk. The cost of running our safe house, organizing educational programs, and distributing legal awareness materials is significant, but the impact is immeasurable.

Your generosity also enables us to conduct outreach and advocacy efforts that are critical to our mission. By raising awareness about the dangers of FGM and promoting legal education, we are changing attitudes and behaviors within communities. This holistic approach is vital for creating lasting change and ensuring the protection of future generations.

A Heartfelt Thank You

We deeply appreciate your continued support and commitment to our cause. Every donation, big or small, fuels our mission and enables us to protect and empower vulnerable girls. Together, we are making significant strides in the fight against FGM and building a future where every girl can dream and thrive without fear.

We look forward to sharing more stories of courage, resilience, and hope as we continue this journey together. Each update is a testament to the power of community and the incredible difference we can make when we stand together against injustice.

Thank you for being a part of this transformative work. Your kindness and generosity mean the world to us and to the young girls whose lives you are changing.

With gratitude,

The FGM Zero Team