As the world observes the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), the African Civil Society Reference Group Inc. (ACSRG) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the global action to end this harmful practice. FGM remains a grave human rights violation, depriving millions of women and girls of their dignity, bodily autonomy, and the right to a life free from violence.
FGM is deeply rooted in cultural, religious, and social traditions, yet it has no medical or health benefits—only lifelong consequences. It leads to severe health complications, including infections, chronic pain, childbirth complications, psychological trauma, and even death. Beyond the physical harm, FGM entrenches gender inequality, limits educational and economic opportunities for women and girls, and violates international conventions on human rights.
While progress has been made in many countries, over 200 million girls and women have already undergone FGM, and 4.3 million more are at risk in 2024 alone. Without urgent intervention, this number could rise to 4.6 million annually by 2030, making the elimination of FGM an urgent global priority.
ACSRG’s Call to Action
On this critical day, ACSRG calls upon governments, civil society, traditional and religious leaders, healthcare professionals, educators, and the international community to take concrete steps toward eradicating FGM:
Strengthen Laws and Enforcement – we urge regional and national Governments to ensure the full implementation and enforcement of anti-FGM laws, closing legal loopholes and holding perpetrators accountable. Legal frameworks should be complemented by comprehensive awareness campaigns and alternative rites of passage programs that respect cultural heritage while safeguarding the rights of girls.
Promote community-Led Advocacy and Dialogue – Sustainable change must be driven from within affected communities. ACSRG urges traditional and religious leaders, parents, and young people to champion positive cultural shifts that protect girls and promote alternative rites of passage that uphold dignity and tradition without harm.
Increase investments in Education and Awareness raising– Public education on the dangers of FGM must be prioritized in schools, healthcare settings, and community gatherings. Girls, families, and local leaders need access to culturally sensitive, evidence-based information that challenges myths and promotes gender equality.
Pursue comprehensive support for survivors – Women and girls who have experienced FGM must receive medical, psychological, legal, and economic support to recover and rebuild their lives. Healthcare systems must be equipped to provide specialized treatment for FGM survivors, ensuring access to quality reproductive and mental health services.
Encourage stronger regional and global collaboration – FGM is practiced that transcends international borders, ACSRG calls for stronger regional cooperation among African nations and international bodies to coordinate anti-FGM efforts, share best practices, and increase funding for grassroots organizations leading the fight against FGM.
Zero Tolerance: A Future Free from FGM
Ending FGM is not just an African or women’s issue—it is a global human rights imperative. Achieving Zero FGM requires bold leadership, sustained advocacy, and collective action at every level of society.
The African Civil Society Reference Group Inc. (ACSRG) a leading platform addressing issues affecting women and children across Africa, stands in solidarity with survivors, activists, policymakers, and communities working tirelessly to eliminate FGM. We must continue to amplify voices, push for stronger policies, and create a world where every girl grows up free from harm, with the right to control her own body, future, and destiny.
Now is the time to act. Now is the time for Zero FGM
Contact: John Ede
Email: africacivils
ocietyrg@gmail.com.
