Kenya and the Netherlands have partnered to ending Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), child marriage, and other harmful cultural practices by 2026.

This follows bilateral talk that took place at the Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage headquarters, where Cabinet Secretary Hannah Cheptumo hosted a visiting Dutch delegation led by Joris van Bommel, Deputy Ambassador of the Netherlands.

Speaking during the meeting, CS Cheptumo welcomed the partnership, calling it a timely opportunity to reinforce global efforts aimed at protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls.

“FGM is a gross violation of human rights. It denies girls the opportunity to live full, healthy, and empowered lives,” she said.

“We are committed to ending this practice and value partners like the Netherlands who stand with us in this crucial mission.”

According to the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey, FGM remains highly prevalent in certain communities, with rates of up to 93.6 per cent among the Somali and 86 per cent among the Samburu.

Although outlawed by the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act (2011), the practice persists, posing serious public health and human rights challenges.

CS Cheptumo outlined ongoing government interventions, including the enforcement of anti-FGM laws, establishment of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) courts and safe shelters for survivors, and cross-sectoral collaboration with health, education, and social protection ministries.

She also noted the importance of engaging religious and community leaders in changing cultural attitudes.

“We are also working with male champions and religious leaders, particularly in the Muslim community through the Inter-Religious Council of Kenya. This approach is helping shift cultural norms on the ground,” she added.

She further highlighted the success of a past bilateral initiative with the Finnish government, which supported anti-FGM efforts in three hotspot counties.

However, she expressed concern over the program’s sustainability, as funding is set to end in March 2025.

“We must not lose the gains we’ve made. Sustainable partnerships are essential to ensure continued support in vulnerable communities,” she emphasized.

Mr. van Bommel commended Kenya’s progress in promoting gender equality and affirmed the Netherlands’ willingness to deepen collaboration in the fight against FGM and GBV.

“We recognize the strength of Kenya’s approach and stand ready to support efforts that protect girls and empower communities,” he said.

The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to develop a strategic partnership roadmap aimed at accelerating the elimination of harmful practices and advancing gender justice in Kenya.