Train 120 Health & Human Rights promoters in Kenya

Dear Esteemed Supporters and Cheerleaders,

We are excited to share the outcomes of the male training held at Nyamusi in April 2024. Your unwavering support has empowered HFAW to reach even more communities, spreading awareness about crucial issues affecting them. This month, we extended our work to Nyamusi, where we engaged 25 men, including the area chief, in a workshop focused on ending female genital mutilation (FGM), gender-based violence (GBV), and promoting sexual and reproductive health. For a very long time men are left out of the antifgm and anti-GBV campaigns and yet some of them are key perpetrators of these vices. Men are considered heads of families as well as decision makers in our communities.

The workshop began with an introduction of HFAW team who are behind these work. The facilitators gave a brief history of the organization and work which was inspired by the Founder’s real life experience of the practice of FGM. These men were welcomed to one of the rare seminars in which real life experiences were shared to reveal what women go through with FGM and GBV practices and the real impact not only on them but the entire community.

Gladys provided an in-depth explanation of FGM, describing it as the partial or total removal of the female genitalia for non-medical reasons. She categorized the effects of FGM into short-term and long-term, highlighting the severe physical and psychological consequences, including prolonged labor, keloids, and the risk of stillbirths. She also shared her personal testimony as a fistula survivor, emphasizing the need for men to take an active role in ending FGM.

The participants engaged in meaningful discussions, raising important questions and sharing their experiences. And some men did not mince words as they revealed their concerns. Samuel questioned the loss of FGM as traditional rite of passage where girls were taught how to become mothers and wives, real home makers. He said, “We advocate for the continuity of FGM because it is a rite of passage, now what will be done if this will be stopped? Won’t our girls become laughing stocks with insults such as ‘ebisagane’ (meaning lasses who know nothing about womanhood)?” The facilitator explained in detail how women don’t have to be cut to be great mothers and wives and gave many examples.

Isaac had a different take. He discovered the reasons behind his wife’s lack of sexual desire. He said, “I have seen the reason why my wife doesn’t have that desire for me, surely the senses were removed so even having the feelings for me is a problem?” Richard on his part appreciated the newfound understanding of how to approach his wife having received guidance on how to live with FGM survivor. He expressed, “I have realized the many wrong approaches and will strive to rectify.”

The men also discussed the GBV issue, while recognizing that violence often stems from power imbalances and cultural norms. Joyce emphasized the importance of proper communication, mutual respect, and understanding between couples in order to curb GBV. The participants acknowledged that even though majority of GBV survivors are women, men, too, suffer from violence but often remain silent due to societal expectations.

By the end of the training, the men took a stand to lead in FGM abandonment. They recognized the need for open communication, shared responsibilities, and respect in their relationships. The area chief, Mr. Erick Anyoka Moriasi, expressed his gratitude for the workshop and requested more sessions, particularly for adolescent girls and at-risk youth.

The workshop at Nyamusi was a significant step towards creating awareness and fostering change within the community. The participants left with a renewed commitment to advocate for positive transformations in their lives and those of their families.

As always, we are grateful for your continued support. Your contributions make it possible for us to reach more communities and make a lasting impact. We encourage you to share our mission with your networks and invite others to join us in this crucial work.

Thank you for being an integral part of our journey toward a safer and more equitable society.

Sincerely,

Doris Kananu, Program Director

Dear Esteemed Supporters and cheerleaders,

We are delighted to share with you the inspiring outcomes of the International Women's Day celebration held at Nyabiosi on March 8, 2024. Your unwavering support has enabled us to continue our mission of empowering women and fostering positive change within communities. In honor of this international day, the HFAW team organized a special event at Nyabiosi, where 25 women participated to become ambassadors of change in their respective communities. The theme of the day, "Empower Women, Inspire Inclusion, and Invest in Women to Accelerate Progress," guided our discussions and activities.

Throughout the session, women were enlightened about their pivotal role in community progress and the transformative power of empowerment. It was emphasized that women's empowerment transcends mere economic independence; it encompasses the freedom to express oneself, stand against oppression, and claim rightful independence in family and societal matters.

A crucial aspect of the event was addressing women's rights, as many participants lacked awareness of their entitlements. The discussion on property ownership rights sparked debates, with some women expressing feelings of disempowerment within their families. Doricah, not her real name, said, “We don’t own anything in our families, we were married to give birth and take care of the children.” The HFAW team emphasized the need for cultural shifts and the importance of educating women and men about women’s rights to combat gender disparities.

Furthermore, participants engaged in dialogue about access to healthcare services and reproductive rights. Many women admitted to only seeking medical assistance when sick, highlighting the lack of information about their entitlement to comprehensive healthcare. HFAW stressed the importance of regular check-ups, especially with regard to sexual and reproductive health, to prevent diseases like cervical cancer.

Interactive sessions allowed women to address personal concerns and seek advice on various issues affecting their lives and relationships. Vivian, not her real name asked, “Do some contraceptives make you lack sexual desire?” Agnes, not her real name also asked resorted to symbolic language when speaking about sexual matters, “my husband likes keeping away from me, for instance when we are going for a journey, he makes me go first or I be the last, what might be the reason behind him doing so?” Everyone laughed and HFAW responded to suggest that perhaps he finds that process to work better for you both.

From marital challenges to reproductive health queries, participants were encouraged to speak out and seek support from HFAW and other relevant resources.

As the event concluded, women expressed enthusiasm about implementing the knowledge gained and becoming agents of change within their communities. They pledged to advocate for women's rights, promote dialogue within families, and spread awareness about gender equality.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to you, as our valued supporters, for being integral to our journey of creating positive change.We invite you to continue championing our cause and spreading the message of empowerment and inclusion.

Thank you for being instrumental in our mission to build a society free of gender inequalities.

Sincerely,

Doris Kananu,

Program Director.