By James Murimi - Reporter
Kenya, 24 November 2025 - The Kenyan government, in partnership with child-rights organisations, has intensified efforts to protect girls in Laikipia North Sub-County from female genital mutilation (FGM) and early forced marriages.
Over the weekend, 250 girls graduated from a four-day Alternative Rite of Passage programme held at Kimanjo trading centre.
The initiative, timed ahead of the December festive season when FGM cases traditionally surge, offers a safe, modern transition to womanhood without harmful cutting.
Laikipia North Deputy County Commissioner David Boen told the gathering that a multi-agency team has been deployed to shield girls from exploitation.
He directed all chiefs to regulate cultural ceremonies strictly during the long holidays, insisting no event may proceed without official approval.
“All cultural celebrations must be authorised by local chiefs. Without a permit, the event will be deemed illegal,” Boen warned.
He ordered chiefs to deploy child-protection volunteers to monitor ceremonies and ensure girls leave by 6pm.
Boen highlighted the persistent threat posed by some morans who lure girls to manyattas under the cover of tradition.
Anti-FGM Board CEO Bernadette Loloju commended partners and announced a new campaign dubbed "My Dear Daughter", to deepen community engagement.
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She noted national FGM prevalence has fallen from 21% in 2014 to 15% today, and to 9% among girls aged 15–19, but stressed the target remains zero.
She warned that Laikipia County remains one of the hotspots, with prevalence rates exceeding 80%, and early marriages contributing heavily to school dropouts.
“We are urging parents to safeguard their daughters. We cannot win this fight without involving boys and young men, and we plan to include them in the next alternative rite of passage programme,” Ms Loloju said.
Action for Children in Conflict official John Muiruri praised growing local support.
“Today, 250 girls have completed the programme. FGM is one of the injustices we fight across the country, and we are encouraged by the positive response from the Laikipia North community,” he said.
Despite ongoing efforts, cases continue to emerge. Recently, two Grade Nine girls fled their homes and sought refuge at the One More Day for Children (OMDC) rescue centre in Doldol after learning of plans by their parents to subject them to FGM.
The rescue centre is currently home to 75 girls – all survivors of harmful cultural practices in the region.
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