The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has been recognised for its contribution to raising public awareness on various societal matters through media advocacy and journalist training.
The MCK has equipped journalists with knowledge of gender-sensitive reporting and ethical coverage of FGM-related stories.
These sentinents echoed as Kenya marked the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) with a resounding call to action at Maili Tatu Stadium in Igembe Central Sub-County, Meru County.
The event, themed “Stepping up the Pace: Building Movements and Strengthening Alliances to End FGM”, brought together government officials, civil society organizations, community leaders, and residents to reaffirm their commitment to eradicating the harmful practice.
Principal Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs Aurelia Rono, representing Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Sectetary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi, delivered the keynote address, emphasising the government's unwavering commitment to ending FGM.
“The government remains steadfast in its efforts to eliminate this harmful practice. We are intensifying community engagements, strengthening laws and enhancing collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that FGM becomes a thing of the past”, she said,
She also stressed the crucial role of engaging men and boys in changing societal perceptions.
The Principal Secretary in the State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action Anne Wang’ombe ighlighted the need for a multi-sectoral approach, calling for collective effort from the government, religious leaders, cultural elders, and communities.
“Ending FGM requires a collective effort. We must work together to ensure that our girls grow up in a safe and protected environment”, she said, emphasising the empowering role of education.
Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza welcomed attendees and pledged her administration’s support in the fight against FGM within the county.
“Meru County has made significant strides. We will continue to support awareness programmes and work closely with stakeholders”, she affirmed, calling for law enforcement to ensure perpetrators face justice.
The event featured powerful testimonies from FGM survivors, who called for stronger measures to protect young girls. Community leaders and elders also pledged their support to abandon the practice within their communities.
The commemoration served as a platform to reinforce Kenya’s commitment to ending FGM. The importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration, community engagement, and media advocacy was underscored, with stakeholders pledging to sustain momentum and strengthen alliances to eradicate FGM across Kenya.
MCK Meru Regional Coordinator Jackson Karanja reiterated the Council’s commitment to supporting ethical and impactful media coverage to promote the rights and dignity of girls and women.