…as Stakeholders Commend Government and Partners
The Kwara State Government has received widespread commendation for its unwavering efforts to eradicate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) through advocacy and community sensitization programs.
This was the highlight of a recent campaign themed “Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation”, organized in partnership with the Global Hope for Women and Children Foundation (GLOHWOC) and supported by UNICEF.
Speaking at the event held in Shao, His Royal Highness, Oba Dr. Job Obalowu Atolagbe Ayanwola, the Ohoro of Shao, reiterated that there is no excuse for the continued practice of FGM in Kwara State.
He applauded the government and its partners for prioritizing the well-being of women and girls, urging communities to abandon the harmful tradition.
“The health and future of our women and girls must never be compromised. The commitment of the Kwara State Government and its partners to ending this harmful practice is highly commendable,” the monarch stated.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Social Development, Hon. Abosede Olaitan Buraimoh, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to safeguarding its citizens, especially women and children.
Represented by the Director of Social Development, Mr. James Kayode, she described FGM as a severe form of violence with devastating physical and social consequences, including infections, infertility, and death.
She presented copies of the domesticated Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law to the monarch to strengthen legal measures against the practice.
The Executive Director of OA Foundation, Mr. Olusegun Adeyemi, highlighted the importance of community collaboration in eradicating FGM.
He lauded the role of traditional leaders in raising awareness and fostering positive change.
Mrs. Christana Abayomi-Oluwole, CEO of GLOHWOC, also emphasized the critical need to end FGM, citing its life-threatening consequences.
“This practice is a grave violation of women’s rights and a significant health risk. Every stakeholder must join hands to end FGM in Kwara State,” she said.
The event, a joint effort by the Kwara State Ministry of Social Development, GLOHWOC, and UNICEF, underscores the state’s commitment to protecting women and girls while enforcing laws against harmful practices.
Stakeholders and participants pledged their support to ensure FGM becomes a thing of the past in Kwara State, marking a significant step towards a safer, healthier society for all.
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