This archive report was first published on 28 November 2019.
November 28, 2019
Female genital cutting, also known as female circumcision, remains a significant challenge in Baringo and Nakuru counties. Despite the government ban, the tradition persists, with dozens of girls undergoing the rite either willingly or forcefully.
Ms. Elizabeth Chepkorir, a 66-year-old woman, was a female circumciser for over 10 years, performing the procedure on more than 1,000 women. She learned the skills from her grandmother, who had circumcised girls for a long time.
Ms. Chepkorir revealed that she had no knowledge of the female reproductive system and exposed the girls to life-threatening effects. She recalled performing the procedures under the cover of darkness to avoid being arrested and charging Sh200 for each girl.
However, a turning point came when she performed the procedure on a pregnant 15-year-old girl, who bled profusely and slid into a coma. The incident changed Ms. Chepkorir's life, and she transformed into an advocate against the female cut.
Ms. Chepkorir now understands the negative health effects of the cut and has been in the forefront of the fight against the practice. She urges communities to abandon the tradition, citing the devastating consequences it has on women and girls.
