International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Observed

The Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is demeaning to womanhood. It violates and undermines the health and well-being of young girls. Many young women are traumatized due to the inhumane treatment they have to endure in the name of an outmoded culture.

In a statement signed by the Director of Programmes and Programmes Manager, Engage Now Africa, Madam Lydia Ohenewaa reiterated to the fact that the form of female genital mutilation (FGM) or female genital cutting (FGC) most commonly practiced in Ghana is Type II (commonly referred to as excision).

“Other forms, such as Type I (commonly referred to as clitoridectomy) and Type III (commonly referred to as infibulation) are also practiced” she emphasis.

According to her, a study have indicates that, in Ghana, the magnitude of FGM practice is variable among regions and districts, but this practice is very dominant among the northern tribes.

Even though the overall prevalence was 4%, that of the Upper East Region was 38%, and that of a district (Bawku municipality) was 82%. It is believed that the higher prevalence in northern Ghana can be attributed to the variable nature of people and culture and the proximity of neighbouring nations such as Mali, Togo, and Burkina Faso where the practice is widespread.

The government of Ghana speaks out against this practice. Officials at all levels of the government speak out publicly against it.

Madam Lydia Ohenewaa has observed that the National Council on Women and Development (CWD), the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) and several Members of Parliament and District Assembly men are strong voices on record opposing the practice.

The media always places the practice in the context of regressive traditions, unbefitting of an ambitious nation. Articles covering officials’ statements against the practice and efforts to inform the populace about the practice are common. NGOs target groups needing information on the subject.

Today as we mark International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation Engage Now Africa (EMS) add it’s voice to the already existing voices in canvassing for total eradication of FGM/FGC in all its forms in endemic communities in Ghana and beyond.