“I watched my wife endure unimaginable pain during childbirth because of FGM. As a I couldn’t bear the thought of my daughters facing the same fate. It was my duty to protect them from a lifetime of pain. In my community, many saw FGM as an unbreakable tradition, but to me, it was a form of cruelty that needed to end. No child should ever be subjected to this kind of harm,”. Said Mohamed*.
A Stand Against Harmful Traditions
In the southern states of Somalia, Mohamed*, a 52-year-old father of ten, has lived in his community for over 30 years. Originally from Mogadishu, Somalia’s capital, Mohamed and his family have faced numerous hardships, including food shortages, inadequate shelter, and limited access to healthcare. Amidst these struggles, one issue deeply affected him—the devastating impact of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
A Personal Awakening
Mohamed witnessed firsthand the pain and complications his wife endured due to FGM, especially during childbirth. This experience solidified his belief that FGM is a harmful practice with long-lasting consequences. Determined to protect his daughters, Mohamed defied cultural norms and took a bold stand against FGM. Out of his six daughters, five were spared from the practice. However, societal pressure led his wife to secretly subject one of their daughters to FGM without his consent, leaving him heartbroken.
Challenging Deep-Rooted Beliefs
Mohamed’s opposition to FGM placed him at odds with many in his community. Traditional leaders resisted his advocacy, but he remained steadfast, believing change was possible through awareness and collaboration.
“The fear of challenging tradition runs deep, but I knew it was time for change. No girl should endure this suffering. I refused to stay silent.” – Mohamed.
Using poetry and storytelling, Mohamed reached out to fathers, religious leaders, and community members. Through his efforts, many men began to question the practice and reconsider their role in its continuation.
A Leader for Change
Today, Mohamed is recognized as a community leader advocating against FGM. With support from the UK-funded Gaashan Project—implemented by Save the Children, CARE International Somalia, and Somali Women Study Center (SWSC)—he continues his mission to protect Somali girls. His advocacy has sparked wider discussions on gender-based violence and women’s rights, inspiring others to join the fight.
About the GAASHAAN Project
The GAASHAN Programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), is a humanitarian initiative focused on preventing gender-based violence (GBV) and providing sustainable humanitarian aid to vulnerable communities in South Central Somalia. Led by Save the Children in collaboration with partners like International Rescue Committee, CARE International, Save Somali Women and Children (SSWC), Somali Women and Development Centre (SWDC), Somali Women’s Studies Centre (SWSC), and GREDO, the program directly benefits 43,756 individuals, including men, women, boys, and girls, with 5% being people with disabilities, across 18 districts in 9 regions. The program also reaches over 117,200 indirect beneficiaries through advocacy and awareness efforts, focusing on IDP camps and areas impacted by conflict and climate-related shocks.
Mohamed’s story exemplifies the power of individual action and collective movement in the fight to end FGM. His courage continues to inspire change, proving that tradition should never come at the cost of a child’s well-being.
