On February 6, the world marks International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a reminder that eliminating this harmful practice requires collective action from all members of society – not just women and girls. Men and boys in our communities are becoming powerful allies, speaking up against this practice and working to change minds. As our founder Dr. Kakenya Ntaiya says, protecting girls is everyone’s responsibility.
A New Kind of Masculinity: Why Men and Boys Matter in the Fight Against FGM
We advocate for masculinity rooted in respect, empathy, equality, and compassion, rather than dominance or control over women and girls. We believe that lasting, meaningful change can only occur when men and boys are part of the conversation and actively engaged in the actions that drive this change. Through their leadership and involvement, we can create a future where gender equality becomes the norm.
In rural Kenya, where FGM remains rooted in tradition, men and boys play a pivotal role in shaping a future free from this harmful practice. These brothers, fathers, uncles, and future husbands have the ability to either perpetuate or break the cycle, because in the communities we serve, the lion’s share of power and influence remains in their hands. They are seen as the custodians of culture, so their voices and actions are critical.
We’re not focused on eliminating tradition but on reimagining it for a brighter future. We have worked alongside community elders, leaders, and religious figures who once supported practicing FGM, and we’ve seen them become allies in this journey. Together, we are redefining what it means to be a respected man in Maasai culture—not through control, but through honor and equality.
Empowering Men and Boys to Lead Change
We believe in engaging boys early on, teaching them about the harmful effects of practices like FGM and how to become advocates for girls’ rights. When boys are taught to respect and uplift girls, they grow into men who challenge harmful practices like FGM—speaking up when they see a girl at risk, rejecting child marriage, and embracing gender equality.
How You Can Be Part of the Solution
The fight against FGM is far from over, but we know the solution lies in collective action. Here’s how men, boys, and everyone else can join us in our mission:
- Mentor the Next Generation: Young boys need role models who can guide and surround them with positive masculinity that promotes equality and respect for women and girls. Volunteer as mentors and help boys understand the importance of education, equality, and ending FGM.
- Start Conversations: Engage men and boys in conversations about how their actions can make a difference. Share the story of Kakenya’s Dream and how men are actively involved in ending FGM. The more men speak out, the more it becomes the new norm.
- Be an Ally in the Fight for Gender Equality: Men who stand in solidarity with women and girls are part of the solution. Amplify their voices and advocate for equal opportunities, access to education, and the end of harmful practices like FGM.
- Support Kakenya’s Dream: International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM may only be one day a year, but the fight is truly year-round. A recurring monthly donation helps sustain this vital work every day. Your support ensures that our programs continue providing education for girls, engaging boys in learning about respect and equality, and empowering entire communities to end FGM.
Let’s make this vision a reality—one person, one conversation, and one community at a time.
