When we arrived in Iloodokilani, Kajiado County, the sun had already risen over the hills, and the heat was starting to settle in. Despite the intense sunlight, the landscape was surprisingly lush, an unexpected burst of greenery brought on by three weeks of heavy rainfall. The once-arid terrain had transformed into a vibrant expanse of green grass and thriving shrubs. I was accompanied by my colleagues: Catherine Mbiti, the Local Rights Programme Coordinator, and Samson Kutata, the Local Rights Programme Driver. We had come to listen to the stories of women whose voices carry the weight of raw, painful, and powerful experiences. These women are not merely survivors; they are warriors. Through their courage and resilience, they are reshaping a community that once clung tightly to harmful traditions.
The journey toward change began in 2013, after tragedy struck the region. A young girl died following Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), and her death left an indelible mark on the community. This event, the women told me, became a turning point.
“That moment changed everything,” one woman said quietly. “We couldn’t stay silent anymore.”
According to the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS), the national prevalence of FGM has declined from 38% in 1998 to 15%. However, in regions like Kajiado, rates remain alarmingly high, up to 78%. This stark data underscores the pressing need for continued intervention to end this harmful practice.
With support from ActionAid Kenya, the women began raising awareness about the dangers of FGM. However, the road was not easy. They faced immense challenges, including being stoned while speaking out. Yet, they risked their safety and well-being to protect future generations.
“It was the backing from local chiefs who embraced the EndFGM message, a few elders, and the unwavering support from ActionAid Kenya,” said Esther Takule, a Women’s Rights Champion. “Our determination was key. FGM wasn’t just a cut, it was a sentence. Girls dropped out of school, were married off, and lost their futures.”
Mary Nasieku shared her personal story:
“I was almost circumcised,” she recalled. “But thanks to the Iloodokilani women’s network and ActionAid Kenya, I was rescued. The school talks changed everything. I realized I had a voice. I had the right to say no.”
The awareness these courageous women created turned into tangible action. Teachers joined their efforts, holding school forums that educated and empowered girls. These sessions weren’t merely lectures; they were lifelines.
“Working with the Iloodokilani women’s network, we educated parents and the community on the importance of ending FGM and ensuring that girls stay in school. Today, girls are completing their education and advancing to secondary school, a rarity in the region, thanks to the strong collaboration between stakeholders. The partnership has been essential,” said Josphine Letia, Head of Ollolera Taegong School.
But the challenges did not stop with FGM. Climate change has also had a profound impact on the community. With men often moving with cattle, women are left behind to shoulder the burden of childcare, with little food or income.
“We had to find ways to survive,” said Irine Nashipae. “ActionAid Kenya trained us in beading and provided us with seed capital. Now, I run my own business. I even bought a small piece of land. My children eat, go to school, and have hope.”
The fight was not solely economic. Many women also faced domestic violence and were excluded from land ownership. In Maasai tradition, land belonged to men, and women’s names were rarely placed on title deeds.
Sanchoine Nkede’s story stands as a testament to resilience.
“I inherited my father’s land as the eldest child because my father did not have sons,” she explained. “But the group ranch leadership, in cahoots with an unscrupulous land buyer, tried to push me out. Even with the documents my father shared before he passed, they didn’t want to accept them. ActionAid Kenya supported me, and I took the matter to the High Court in Nairobi, where I won.” Her eyes sparkled with pride as she added, “Justice finally came.”
Today, the Iloodokilani Women’s Network, chaired by Mary Likama, works in partnership with local chiefs, police, and the county government to rescue at-risk girls and support survivors of abuse. Their network is stronger than ever.
As our conversation drew to a close, Esther Takule offered a sobering reminder:
“We’ve come a long way, but there are still remote villages we haven’t reached. We need unity and support. Only then can we end FGM and gender-based violence for good.”
ActionAid Kenya continues to stand alongside women and girls across the country, empowering communities to end harmful practices like FGM, combat gender-based violence, promote economic independence, and secure land rights through legal support, education, and grassroots mobilization.
We call on supporters, donors, and partners to stand with us. Together, we can eliminate harmful practices like FGM, promote gender equality, and build a future where every woman and girl can thrive.
Author: Ezra Kiriago ,Communications Coordinator ActionAid Kenya.