The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) held a validation meeting in Garissa County to review and refine a newly developed E-Module on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Response and Prevention. The session brought together local administrators, law enforcement officers, civil society representatives, and community stakeholders to ensure the training tool is practical, culturally sensitive, and aligned with Kenya’s human rights commitments.
The day began with registration and welcoming remarks from KNCHR representatives, who underscored the importance of collective action in ending FGM. Participants were reminded of the objectives of the validation forum and the need to uphold respect, inclusivity, and open dialogue throughout the day’s proceedings.
A key highlight of the morning session was the presentation of the Training Needs Assessment (TNA) findings, which provided a detailed overview of knowledge and capacity gaps among various duty bearers. The findings revealed challenges such as limited awareness of FGM laws under the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act, 2011, weak response mechanisms, and persistent cultural barriers. These insights formed the foundation for targeted training interventions aimed at strengthening community-based prevention and protection systems.
This was followed by the presentation of the FGM E-Module, an innovative and interactive digital learning tool designed to enhance understanding of FGM-related issues among frontline actors. The module covers critical areas such as the types and consequences of FGM, legal obligations of state and non-state actors, prevention strategies, survivor support, and inter-agency collaboration. Participants commended the module’s user-friendly features, including quizzes, case studies, and scenario-based exercises that foster practical and experiential learning.
After a brief tea break and group photo session, participants engaged in interactive discussions and validation exercises, where they reviewed the module’s content, relevance, and usability. In mixed breakout groups comprising law enforcement officers, civil society organizations, and community representatives, participants assessed the module’s accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and applicability within local contexts. During the plenary, consensus emerged that the tool has immense potential to strengthen coordination, awareness, and accountability across institutions addressing FGM.
The session concluded with a way forward and action planning segment, where KNCHR outlined next steps including refining the module based on stakeholder input, conducting pilot testing, and planning a phased rollout. Participants expressed strong commitment to supporting the initiative, recognizing its value in bridging training gaps and advancing the national agenda to eliminate FGM.
In his remarks, Commissioner Dr. Wamalwa Dennis reaffirmed KNCHR’s dedication to protecting the rights of women and girls across Kenya. He emphasized that technology-driven approaches like the FGM E-Module mark a new chapter in human rights education—one that leverages innovation to build informed, responsive, and coordinated communities. Dr. Wamalwa called upon all partners to remain steadfast in their efforts toward ending FGM once and for all.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks and renewed optimism for a Kenya where the rights and dignity of every girl are fully protected.