In this final episode of the Kenya series, host Anna Stoecklein explores what it will take to not just end female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C), but to shift the underlying social norms that drive it. The episode examines the complex journey toward cultural transformation, revealing how community dialogue, intergenerational conversations, and collective action are crucial for lasting change.
Through powerful examples—from a young Maasai man who composes songs advocating against FGM/C to a former cutter now spreading awareness within her community—the episode showcases how grassroots movements are creating meaningful progress.
While acknowledging the long road ahead, survivors and experts share signs of progress and compelling reasons to remain hopeful about creating a world where women not only live free from harmful practices, but where they possess full bodily autonomy, equal decision-making power, access to education, and the opportunity to fulfill their extraordinary potential—a transformation that benefits not just women, but entire communities and countries.
This series includes discussions of FGM/C, including personal accounts of physical and emotional trauma. These stories may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Please take care while listening.
Beyond the cut: Why real progress means tackling inequality, not just ending FGM/C
Awareness vs action: Why knowledge alone doesn’t change behavior
Community-led change: The power of intergenerational dialogue and local leadership
Men’s role: Speaking up, stepping aside, and supporting women’s leadership
Global setbacks: How COVID, conflict, and climate change threaten progress
Signs of hope: Real-world progress and why communities remain optimistic
Some names have been changed to protect the identities of individuals featured in this episode.
Survivors & Community Members
Fariha: Somali survivor who uses her salon as a place for advocacy
Saitoti: Maasai community leader who composes songs against FGM/C
Anne/"Mama Kijiji": Female Maasai elder who emphasizes the importance of community dialogue
Leila: Somali survivor who advocates for grassroots awareness
Christine: Maasai survivor who dreams of her daughter being able to "stand for herself"
Pauline: Former cutter who now goes house-to-house advocating against the practice
Sean Callaghan (Orchid Project): Head of Research and Capacity Strengthening
Kirigo Njenga (Orchid Project): Advocacy Officer
Evelyn Wambui: Field producer and translator for this series
Orchid Project: International NGO working at the forefront of the global movement to create a world free from FGM/C.
COVAW (Coalition on Violence Against Women): National non-profit women’s rights organization responding to the silence of the Kenyan society in addressing Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).
Brighter Society Initiative: Local Kenya NGO that works to empower the society beyond violence.
Transcription is available here
This series was created in partnership with Orchid Project, an international NGO working to end FGM/C globally. If you'd like to become part of the movement to end FGM/C and support the vital work that Orchid Project is doing, please consider making a donation. No matter how small, your contribution will help to create a future where women and girls live free from FGM/C.
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