CS Ann Cheptumo Warns Baringo Administrators Over FGM Cases

Gender Cabinet Secretary Ann Cheptumo has warned chiefs, village elders and other local administrators in Baringo County that they could face disciplinary action if Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) cases occur under their watch.

Cheptumo said local administrators have a responsibility to protect girls and women from the harmful practice and must take action whenever there are indications that FGM is taking place within their areas of jurisdiction.

She was speaking during a three-day women's conference that brought together women of faith from all six constituencies in Baringo County.

The conference, held under the theme “Restoring Lost Glory,” focused on challenges affecting women and girls, including harmful cultural practices, education, family welfare and the role of religious institutions in addressing social problems.

CS raises concern over persistent FGM

Cheptumo expressed concern that FGM continues to be practised in parts of Baringo despite years of awareness campaigns, legislation and interventions by the Government, religious organisations and other stakeholders.

She said it was particularly disturbing that girls and, increasingly, adult women continue to undergo the practice.

The CS described FGM as a retrogressive practice that violates the rights and dignity of women and girls and warned communities against using cultural beliefs to justify harmful practices.

She called on local administrators to remain vigilant and ensure cases are reported and appropriate action taken.

Church urged to intensify fight against FGM

Pastor Salina Chelimo also called for stronger efforts to eliminate harmful cultural practices, particularly in communities where churches have significant influence.

Chelimo said religious institutions have an important role in educating communities and challenging traditions that expose women and girls to harm.

She urged the church to work closely with the Government and other stakeholders to raise awareness and support efforts aimed at ending FGM.

Tiaty remains a concern

FGM remains a major concern in parts of Baringo, with Tiaty Sub-County frequently identified among areas where the practice remains deeply rooted.

Education stakeholders have raised concerns over reports of girls disappearing from their homes and schools during periods when FGM is believed to be taking place.

Some schools have reportedly experienced reduced enrolment and attendance among girls, raising fears that the practice could undermine progress made in girls' education.

Stakeholders have warned that girls subjected to FGM may face increased risks of early marriage and dropping out of school, potentially limiting their educational and economic opportunities.

Adult FGM adds to challenge

In Baringo South, stakeholders have also expressed concern over reports of adult women undergoing FGM.

The development has complicated efforts to eliminate the practice, as campaigns traditionally focus heavily on protecting girls.

Authorities and community leaders are now being urged to strengthen surveillance, community education and reporting mechanisms while working with religious and traditional leaders to challenge beliefs that perpetuate FGM.

Cheptumo's warning places greater responsibility on local administrators to ensure that cases are detected, reported and addressed, as Kenya continues efforts to eliminate FGM.