Patriarchy’s Weapon Against Girls: The Urgent Need to End FGM
The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is not just a symbolic observance—it is a day that demands action. But let me be clear: this fight is not confined to February 6th. It is an everyday battle, waged by survivors, activists, and allies who refuse to accept that the bodies of girls are sites of violence. Every single day, a girl somewhere in the world is subjected to FGM, and every 12 minutes, another loses her life due to its devastating consequences.
For me, this is personal. I am not just an advocate—I am a survivor. I know what it feels like to have your body violated in the name of control. I know the lifelong trauma, the whispers of pain that never quite fade. And I know that every girl who endures this horror is more than a number; she is a daughter, a sister, a friend, a future leader. She deserves safety. She deserves dignity. She deserves a world where FGM no longer exists.
FGM is not a tradition, not a cultural rite—it is violence, and it must be seen as such. It is the fourth biggest killer of African girls. The fact that this form of gender-based violence persists in the 21st century is a stain on our collective humanity. We need more than words; we need urgent and unwavering political will at every level. In order to truly tackle FGM, we must address the system of patriarchy.
Tell me, where in the world are women and girls not affected by such an ugly system designed to control us? The media must do more to amplify the dangers and harm of this violence without harming marginalized communities.
But we must also understand that change begins with us. Ending FGM is not just about passing laws—it is about shifting mindsets, challenging the violence and oppression that sustains FGM, and ensuring that every girl knows she is born whole, worthy, and powerful. It is about transforming pain into power, shame into strength, and silence into a collective voice that demands justice.
As a survivor, I will never stop fighting. The road to change is long, but I have seen what is possible when we refuse to accept the status quo. Together, we can make FGM a relic of the past—an injustice that future generations will only read about in history books, never experience. This is my promise, and it must be our collective commitment. In this dark world we are currently living in, I would like to believe that violating and torturing children will unite us.
To every survivor of FGM reading this: You are strong, you are resilient, and you are not alone. Your body is yours, your voice matters, and your story is powerful. Healing is a journey, and every step you take is a testament to your courage. Know that there is a global sisterhood standing beside you, fighting for justice, and ensuring that no girl ever endures what we have. You are worthy of love, safety, and a future free from violence. Keep shining, keep speaking, and know that you are deeply valued and seen.