11 February 2025, Mogadishu, Somalia – The International Day for Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) was commemorated with a powerful gathering of key stakeholders, survivors, government officials, and international partners in Mogadishu. The event underscored the urgent need to end FGM and strengthen the collective commitment to protecting Somali women and girls from this harmful practice.
The commemoration commenced with the registration and welcome of attendees, followed by a compelling video highlighting the devastating effects of FGM as well as the significant efforts made and strides achieved in combatting FGM, showcasing the progress of various initiatives, awareness campaigns, and policy advancements aimed at eradicating the practice. These visuals set the tone for an impactful session of keynote messages and speeches from leaders advocating for change.
A Call for Change and Solidarity
George Conway, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Resident Coordinator, and Humanitarian Coordinator (DRSG/RC/HC), emphasized the international community’s support for Somalia’s movement against FGM.
“We are here to support Somali citizens’ desire for change,” he stated. “We need to show solidarity with survivors and the violence faced by Somali women, including child and forced marriage. We are here to support women and girls to achieve the change that the people want.”
Government Commitment and Leadership
H.E. Amb Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, Minister of Women, Family, and Human Rights Development (MoFHRD), delivered opening remarks stressing the lifelong struggles faced by Somali women due to FGM.
“We have enough evidence to back up the severe health issues of FGM practice, and today we stand steadfast in our commitment to abandoning this harmful practice,” she declared.
She further called for legislative action, urging society to rally behind the passing of a law banning FGM. “We should support passing the law banning FGM while collaborating closely with every member of our society, including teachers, youth, religious leaders, and families.”
Goodwill Messages and Collective Efforts
The event featured goodwill messages from key government officials, including Deputy Minister of Youth, H.E. Mohamed Abdulkadir Haji, and Minister of Health, H.E. Maryan Mohamed Hussein. Female Members of Parliament and former Minister Maryan Qasim also voiced their unwavering commitment to ending FGM.
Survivor Testimonies: Voices of Strength and Resilience
The heart of the event was the survivor experience-sharing session, where two survivors courageously shared their painful experiences with FGM. Their testimonials shed light on the deep emotional and physical scars left by the practice and reinforced the urgency of ending it once and for all.
Commitment to Change
Community leaders and partners including survivors, religious leaders, CSOs, and media expressed their unwavering commitment to supporting Somalia in the fight against FGM. They reaffirmed their dedication to working closely with local actors to drive sustainable change and empower women and girls.
Signing of Commitment
The event concluded with the signing of a commitment solidifying the collective pledge to intensify efforts in eradicating FGM. Attendees agreed that Somalia must take decisive action, through both policy and grassroots initiatives, to protect the future of young girls.
As the commemoration ended, a resounding message echoed across the room: Somalia’s young girls deserve a future free from FGM. The time for change is now.
