Female genital mutilation is a widespread and very complex phenomenon that includes traditional practices ranging from circumcision to the partial or even complete removal of the external female genital organs. The consequences for affected girls are serious and irreversible health risks and psychological problems as a result of the traumatic experience caused by this practice. Female genital mutilation must be seen in a cultural context, so it is essential to involve the whole community in the awareness and implementation process.
Traditionally, Maasai girls are being cut at the age of around 15 before their arranged marriage – despite a state ban.
Project
The idea for the project came from the women of the community and the community council, who want to rebel against the cruel practice of female genital mutilation and consider it to be archaic and harmful to health.
The aim was to build a multifunctional center in the Kajiado District, which would be available to the Maasai women living there as a contact point and place of protection for all questions relating to sex, pregnancy and birth.
Functionality of the MMAC
- Pregnancy and maternity clinic where women receive medical care during pregnancy and childbirth in the presence of a doctor. In addition, the women there will also receive education and information about sexually transmitted diseases and contraceptives, as well as psychological support.
The Kenyan government granted recognition as a maternity clinic in August 2016 following the construction of a disposal hole for the placentas under the building. - Launch of a women’s cooperative for the production of traditional Maasai jewelry. The women organize themselves among themselves and open up a potential source of income through the joint production of traditional Maasai jewelry. Among other things, the production of the Smile.28 bracelet was launched, which can be used as a natural contraceptive. This women’s cooperative has also been officially recognized by the Kenyan government.
- Center for lobbying against genital mutilation
Training center for the education and training of local opinion leaders, who are then to actively take up the fight against female genital mutilation. In particular, the aim is to raise awareness of the cruelty of this archaic practice and to highlight alternatives for society.
Raising awareness in the community and among men in particular and teenagers.
The planning was carried out by La Nostra Africa and the construction work was supervised and coordinated locally by Kagiri Duncan.
Construction work began on December 1, 2014 and the MMAC was completed on February 25, 2015. After completion, District Chief Shadrack Mututua took over the management of the activities. The costs amounted to around 80,000 euros and the center was financed entirely from the proceeds of the bazaar.