Habaswein is one of the most remote areas in Kenya.Other than being demographically and terrain challenged, it is an area where infibulation, the worst form of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is highly practiced. Members of this community in North Eastern Kenya cited that the chief reason, that FGM is practiced is because:It is a Somali tradition as well as an Islamic requirement (even though the majority of Muslims globally do not practice FGM)
It is on this basis,that the African Family Health organization together with the Population Council decided to celebrate women in a different way by organizing an anti FGM crusade in Habaswein with the aim of delinking Female genital Mutilation to Islamic religion.
On this day, we mobilized reputable Islam scholars like Sheikh Siyaat and Sheikh Ibrahim Lethome (Population Council Consultant) who recited different verses of the Quran and Hadith that prooved that the community's argument on practicing FGM is baseless and unfounded.
Other invited guests were:Mr Gedi Abdi Dawey-DACEO , Mr Robert Sirya-World Vision,Mr Ramadhan Juma-AFH representative, Mrs Winnie Osula-Population Council Representative,Area member of Parliament represented by Mr.Mohamed ismail, DC-Represented by DO1, Mr. Joel Kosgei
Other invited guests were:Mr Gedi Abdi Dawey-DACEO , Mr Robert Sirya-World Vision,Mr Ramadhan Juma-AFH representative, Mrs Winnie Osula-Population Council Representative,Area member of Parliament represented by Mr.Mohamed ismail, DC-Represented by DO1, Mr. Joel Kosgei
covered the event and aired recorded interviews with local leaders. Among those who were interviewed were:
- Ustadha Fatma Mohamed Dahir, a women elder
- Asst. Chief Amina Mohamet Sirat
- Sheikh Ibrahim Lethome, Population Council Consultant
- DO1, Mr. Joel Kosgei, in place of the District Commissioner
prepared to stop any practices that are not in line with Islamic teachings.
In the effort of bridging the gap between the boy and girl child, World Vision built a boarding school in the area,but it is such a pity that the facility is largely under utilized since parents are not sending their girls to that school! unfortunately in the region,boys are given preference and sent to school at the expense of the girl child! The parents however were encouraged to take deliberate efforts to rescue the situation.
All is not lost in this part of North Eastern Kenya.With the help of Maendeleo ya Wanawake Women Organization, the women have come up with an income generating project, whereby they create energy saving charcoal burners and other artefacts.The biggest challenge they face though is to find market for their products.
Tremendous leadership and communication skills being exhibited by the great women of Habaswein during the workshop.
At the end of the day,as we left this small underutilized town,We couldn't help but marvel at the rich potential in such a remote area.It is very true what they usually say,"There is a drop of greatness in every man". All these women need is a platform of training and exposure.If you have any ideas or support on how to go along with this cause.Please post a comment or visit our website http://www.africanfamilyhealth.org
Watch this space for more news and updates.
