Breaking Cultural Taboos: Tana River Men Utilize Football to Combat FGM
In Tana River County’s Hola town, Galole Constituency, a group of 13 determined men have come together to form Iqra FC, a football team with a unique mission: fighting against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in their community.
These men have boldly defied cultural norms that discourage discussions related to female genitalia, actively engaging in counseling survivors of FGM and advocating against the practice of female circumcision.
Inspired by the urgency to dispel the misconception that young men encourage FGM, Ismail Roba, the head of discipline for Iqra FC, explains the motivation behind their initiative.
“Elders alleged that we were the ones who demanded circumcised girls, and then they advised us to pursue relationships with circumcised women. Only later did we realize the adverse effects of circumcision on them,” Ismail revealed.
He further emphasized that after undergoing circumcision, girls often undergo cultural teachings that isolate them from the community, making them introverted and preventing them from sharing their experiences and hardships. However, Iqra FC has been actively dismantling these barriers, enabling women to break their silence and confide in their friends and family. Ali Shuri, the team’s captain, acknowledges the transformative power of football in this process.
Ali shares a personal revelation that drove him to take action.
“When my sister described to me how the cut happened and drew an image of what her genitalia looked like before and after, tears welled up in my eyes. I felt immense anger towards the world for its harshness and wondered how we had reached this point,” Shuri recalled.
Starting the conversation was no easy task, but football played a crucial role in building the victims’ confidence and fostering solidarity among them as they confronted the barbaric practice.
One year later, Shuri reports that they have successfully shifted public opinion and have challenged the elders to embrace alternative approaches that ensure the safety and well-being of women.
“Our men are now listening. We are exposing their lies and rejecting these regressive traditions. They must renounce these practices,” Shuri asserted.
The group’s aspirations extend beyond their immediate community. Iqra FC aims to extend their assistance to more women in Tana River County, specifically targeting over 5,000 women who have suffered the adverse consequences of FGM. Through their football-led advocacy, counseling, and support, Iqra FC is creating a powerful ripple effect that transcends cultural taboos, empowering women to speak out and fostering a safer future for generations to come.
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