Campaigns
The International Womens Day
Celebrations In Habaswein, Wajir South
Habaswein is in Wajir, North Eastern Kenya. Other than being demographically and terrain challenged, it is an area where infibulation, the severest form of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is highly practiced.
Members of this community in North Eastern Kenya cited that the chief reason, that FGM is practiced is because: It is a Somali tradition as well as an Islamic requirement (even though the majority of Muslims globally do not practice FGM)
It is on this basis,that the African Family Health organization, together with the Population Council decided to celebrate women in a different way by organizing an anti FGM crusade in Habaswein with the aim of delinking Female genital Mutilation from Islam religion.
On this day, the partners mobilized reputable Islam scholars like Sheikh Siyaat and Sheikh Ibrahim Lethome (Population Council Consultant); who recited different verses of the Quran and Hadith that proved that the community’s argument on practicing FGM stands baseless and unfounded.
Partners participating: Mr Gedi Abdi Dawey-DACEO , Mr Robert Sirya-Area manager World Vision, Mr Ramadhan Juma-AFH representative, Mrs Winnie Osula-Population Council Representative, Area member of Parliament represented by Mr.Mohamed ismail, DC-Represented by DO1, Mr. Joel Kosgei
Kenya broadcasting Corporation (KBC)
covered the event and aired recorded interviews with local leaders. Among those who were interviewed were:
- Ustadha Fatma Mohamed Dahir, a women elder
- Asst. Chief Amina Mohamet Sirat
- Sheikh Ibrahim Lethome, Population Council Consultant
- DO1, Mr. Joel Kosgei, in place of the District Commissioner
Community members indicated that they were ready to listen to religious scholars and would be prepared to stop any practices that are not in line with Islamic teachings.
Partner Initiatives
In the effort of bridging the gap between the boy and girl child, World Vision built a boarding school in the area. The parents are encouraged to take deliberate efforts to send children to school.
With the help of Maendeleo ya Wanawake Women Organization, the women have come up with an income generating project, such create energy saving charcoal burners and other artefacts. The biggest challenge they face though is to find market for their products.
Tremendous leadership and communication skills were exhibited by the great women of Habaswein during the event.
