Restoring Dignity. Empowering Girls. Transforming Communities.
Our Impact / Key Issues
Female Genital mutilation
FGM in Meru County
Kenya has made strides in the fight against FGM, with the current prevalence being 15% as per KDHS 2022. The reduction in prevalence is attributed to the concerted efforts by state and non-state actors in combating FGM and other harmful practices in the country. Despite the decline at national level, some counties still have high prevalence of the practice. According to KDHS 2022, Meru County has FGM prevalence of 19%. The practice is predominant in the Igembe and Tingania regions.
FGM among the Meru is practiced as a rite of passage from childhood to adulthood. The practice continues being fueled by sanctions placed on women who have not undergone FGM from participating in other cultural celebrations including during the boy’s circumcision. Additionally, women who have undergone FGM are respected and deemed “complete Meru women”, as those who have not are ridiculed and called derogatorynames.
Teenage pregnancy
Meru county is among the top five counties leading in teenage pregnancy at 24% according to KDHS 2022. A report released on June 2024 by National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) indicates that at least 15,000 school girls have given birth and dropped out of school in Meru County since January this year.
Teenage pregnancy in Meru county is not only a statistic: it represents thousands of young lives that have been disrupted, and whose future have been compromised and dreams shattered. it is also matter of great concern that signals a persistent cycle of child abuse that goes on unaddressed.
These pregnancies often lead to school dropouts perpetuating the cycle of poverty, increasing cases of gender based violence and psychological trauma and limiting opportunities for these young girls. Moreover, teenage mothers face significant health risks including complication during child birth, which can be fatal for both mother and the child. This situation requires multifaceted approach to tackle the root cause and offer support to the girls.
Patriarchy system
Men significantly contribute to the continuation of this practice in their roles as husbands, fathers, administrators, brothers, and cultural leaders. In the Meru community of Kenya, traditional masculinity is strongly promoted, leading to a societal norm where male dominance over women and girls is almost instinctual.
