Amref initiative highlighted in a showcase of USAID’s work in strengthening human rights
Through Koota Injena, we trained Dahabo (right) to hold dialogues where people, especially women, can openly discuss FGM and child marriage (photo: Jeroen Van Loon/Amref Health Africa)
On July 29, Medium – a popular online publication in the USA – published an article titled “8 Ways USAID is Advancing Fundamental Freedoms, Promoting Democracy, and Strengthening Human Rights Around the World” that featured an innovative initiative led by Amref Health Africa called Koota Injena. Funded by USAID and implemented in Northern Kenya, this three-years pilot, whose name translates to “Come let us talk” in a local language, targets four main semi-nomadic communities (the Borana, the Samburu, the Gabra and the Rendille) who continue to practice Female Genital Mutilation and Cutting (FGM/C) and Child Early and Forced Marriage (CEFM) at rates four times higher than the national average and despite national laws prohibiting them.
Through Koota Injena, we engage clan elders and other respected community leaders and train them to facilitate dialogue between different generations to abandon FGM/C, CEFM, and to promote the value of girls in their society. By engaging with elders, who are the ultimate decision makers in these communities, we are ensuring that the abandonment of these practices is upheld and led by the communities. Learn more about Koota Injena here.
