2007 PRESS RELEASES

Alternative Rite of Passage Cherish Others Full Stop to FGM program Kilgoris, Trans Mara District U.S. Embassy

December 5, 2007

In Kilgoris today, Ambassador Michael E. Ranneberger observed 30 Maasai girls participate in a meaningful and uplifting alternative rite of passage ceremony sponsored by the non-governmental organization Cherish Others. The Ambassador was pleased to attend this important ceremony in support of 16 days of Activism to highlight the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. In choosing an alternative rite of passage to female genital mutilation, these young women, with the support of their families, are claiming a better, healthier future for themselves and for future generations of Kenyan women. We commend these young women for their courageous choice and applaud their families for supporting their daughters during this important time in their lives.    

The U.S. Mission is pleased to fund the work of Cherish Others and similar partner organizations working to eliminate the practice of Female Genital Mutilation.  Due to the work of Cherish Others, over the past five years approximately 1000 Maasai girls have undertaken the alternative rite of passage and refused to undergo FGM.  In addition, these young women learn about human growth and development, self-esteem, and are given awareness training on sexual abuse and harassment.  Taking a community-based approach, Cherish Others also educates elders and community leaders about the harmful effects of FGM and is working towards its elimination. Over the course of the next year, Cherish Others will sponsor alternative rites of passages and seminars which will reach an additional 300 teenage girls.