In a significant step towards safeguarding the rights and well-being of women in Ebonyi State, Chief Mrs Mary-Maudline Uzoamaka Nwifuru, through her foundation, Better Health for Rural Women, children, and Internally Displaced persons (BERWO), has announced a comprehensive approach to eradicate female genital mutilation (FGM) in the state.
During the commemoration of the 2024 International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, with the theme “Her Voice, Her Future,” held in Abakaliki, Mrs Nwifuru emphasized the importance of education, advocacy, and legislative measures as key components of the comprehensive approach to eradicating FGM.
The program, organized by BERWO in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), saw the Governor’s wife, represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Felicia Nwankpuma, call upon religious leaders, civil society organizations, women groups, and other relevant bodies to show unwavering commitment in the fight against female genital mutilation and cutting.
Female genital mutilation, as defined by Mrs Nwifuru, includes all procedures involving the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The harmful practice has been proven to have no benefit for girls and women, causing lifelong problems for survivors.
With the partnership between BERWO and UNFPA, there is renewed hope for the eradication of FGM in Ebonyi State. By combining efforts in education, advocacy, and legislative measures, the foundation aims to protect the rights and well-being of women, ensuring a brighter future for all.
