UNICEF: Niger villages say "No" to female genital mutilation

NIAMEY, Niger, 14 April 2009 Ten villages in western Niger have decided to put an end to female genital mutilation or cutting (also known as FGM/C), publicly calling all inhabitants in the Tillabery region to give up this practice, which threatens girls lives.

We have decided to definitively put an end to female genital mutilation in our villages and to continue sensitizing neighbouring villages so they also give up the practice, declared M. Babobou Pana, leader of one of the villages.

UNICEF is extremely pleased with this public declaration to end female genital mutilation in this part of Niger, as it is seen by Nigerien authorities as a severe violation of the rights of women and young girls, said UNICEF Representative in Niger Akhil Iyer. Genital mutilation has a negative impact on their reproductive health and their ability to go to school. This public declaration is an act of courage and an important step forward for the country.

To read the full story, visit http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/niger_49292.html

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• UNICEF
• Niger
• female
• genital
• mutilation
• cutting
• circumcision
• FGM/C

[imgonnaeatyounow]

wohooo go UNICEF!!

[mikewells64]

what the hell is genital mutation it sounds discusting well acually worse then that disturbing i seen that little girl my stomac just cringed, turned and just went soggy

[manduhpandaaa]

I'm very disturbed that this practice still continues--mainly because these women felt compelled to practice this. According to an article on msnbc, some of these women believe this is a noble practice that proves sexual morality and dedication to their husbands. My question is--what are they husbands doing to commit themselves to their wives in this way? This portrays a common gender identity found in many cultures that women are often more submissive to men(Tennen-You Just Dont Understand).

[Ayanfe13]

Good to show the cruelty towards these women so we can join hands and do what we can to stop it.

[CTHULUgreatoldone]

soemoen should lock these barbaric people away for etenity they a re s avages..mutiliating peopel like thatt?get out of the dark ages you ignorant bastards.