1-day advocacy meeting with 80 influential leaders from the 20 intervention communities in Imo State.

VHF through the support of UNICEF/UNFPA Joint Programme held Advocacy Meeting with Relevant Stakeholders in Imo State on ENDFGM Programme . The most significant success was the decision the stakeholder took on behalf of the 20 communities in Imo State to end FGM by publicly denouncing the Practice.

Female Genital Mutilation is a practice of partial or total removal of the female genitals. This practice can be done in four categories; Clitoridectomy, Excision, Infibulation and Unclassified. FGM is deep rooted in culture, tradition and Patriarchy. FGM is a harmful practice that violates Women’s and Girl’ sexual reproductive Health Rights. The Violence Against Prohibition Law, VAPP and Imo State Prohibition Law provides strict penalties for offenders, which includes 14 years imprisonment.

The Community Stakeholders who understood the harmful effects of FGM pledged to end FGM.

ACHIEVEMENTS

• 80  religious leaders and community/traditional influence-rs  publicly denounce FGM practices 
• 80 religious leaders and community/traditional influence-rs publicly denounce FGM practices
• Increased awareness with the community leaders and stakeholders sensitized on the FGM’s harmful effects.
• Established partnerships and full participation /collaborations were established between the community stakeholders, CBOs, and VHF.
• Developed advocacy strategies, messages and approaches for local contexts was identified by the community participants.
• Well-structured training materials, pictures, videos, power points in different topics that convey touching messages about FGM and other harmful practices and community dialogue and participations were gained. 
• 80 influential leaders promised to reports any form of FGM cases to authorities/LGA/VHF
• Community leaders publicly condemned FGM and pledged on the M4GOOD website and pledge forms. 
• LGA Council plans to incorporate END FGM Programs into their activities.