The intersection of art and activism has always wielded the power to move hearts and catalyze action. In the arid landscapes of Garissa and Isiolo counties, this potent combination is being brought to life through the Girl Generation: Support to the Africa-Led Movement to End FGM/C Programme (TGG-ALM), transforming communities and empowering a new generation of girls.
For too long, deep-rooted cultural justifications have perpetuated Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C), casting a shadow over the lives and futures of countless girls. Traditional awareness campaigns, while vital, often struggle to penetrate the emotional and deeply personal layers of cultural practice. Recognizing this, the Girl Generation programme has strategically woven art into its engagement, creating a powerful new narrative of change.
“We understood that to truly dismantle deeply ingrained practices, we needed to speak a language that resonates beyond words,” explains Zamzam Hassan, the Programme Coordinator for the TGG–ALM at ActionAid Kenya. “Art has this unique ability to bypass intellectual barriers and touch hearts directly. It allows for a dialogue that is empathetic, engaging, and incredibly powerful.”
Through vibrant creative storytelling sessions fused with painting, girls in Garissa and Isiolo counties are unleashing new forms of expression, bravely challenging harmful norms. These dynamic artistic platforms are shattering the silence and fear surrounding FGM/C, replacing them with resounding messages of empowerment, inviolable bodily autonomy, and the undeniable right to live free from violence.
“Watching these girls create and share their art is truly inspiring,” Zamzam adds. “Their paintings depict dreams of a future free from FGM, their paintings express strength, reclaim self-worth, and voice a powerful call for bodily integrity. This isn’t just art; it’s a profound declaration of their rights and a collective commitment to protecting their peers.”
The impact is palpable. Girls who once felt voiceless are now confidently advocating for themselves and their friends. Communities are witnessing firsthand the transformative power of art, sparking crucial conversations and fostering a new understanding of what it means for every girl to be safe and empowered.
“One young girl, after participating in the painting sessions, said, ‘My painting speaks for me. It says Stop FGM,” recounts Zamzam, a proud smile on her face. “That’s the kind of shift we’re working for. It’s about empowering them to find their voice and envision a future where they are respected and free.”
The movement believes that art is not just a tool, but an essential force in the fight against FGM/C. By nurturing creativity and self-expression, they are building resilience, challenging harmful traditions, and cultivating a society where every girl can flourish, be respected, and be free from violence. Together, through art and unwavering activism, they are painting a brighter future for Garissa, Isiolo, and beyond.
Author: Ezra Kiriago ,Communications Coordinator ActionAid Kenya.