This archive report was first published on 18 June 2020.
Published on June 18, 2020, Mzee Benjamin Latim, a former Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) promoter, has traded in his traditional ways for a new life. For years, he was known as 'Chelele,' a legendary figure in the Rift Valley region, famous for garlanding female initiates with traditional ornaments and soothing songs.
However, with the outlawing of FGM in the country, Chelele's business prospects dwindled, and he was forced to find alternative means of sustenance. He turned to changa'a brewing, a lucrative but illicit trade, which ultimately led to his arrest and a 14-day quarantine at the Kaplelach facility.
It was during his time at the quarantine facility that Mzee Latim found salvation in Jesus Christ and chose a new path in life. He has since handed over his traditional ornaments to the Uasin Gishu County government, which will be showcased in their museum.
Speaking after receiving the artefacts, Mr. Chemno, a county official, announced that they will be handed over to the Department of Culture and Social Services. He also revealed that Mzee Latim will be enlisted as one of the county's anti-FGM and anti-illicit brew campaigners, a move aimed at encouraging others to reform before the law catches up with them.
“At the moment, FGM has been outlawed in the country and no one is still interested in my services. That is why I have decided to surrender the traditional ornaments and other relics to be showcased in their museum,” Mzee Latim said in a statement.
