The UN estimates that over 230 million women and girls have been subjected to female genital mutilation. Despite being banned by the UN in 2012, the practice continues today. While many organizations are working to end the practice, the vast majority of them focus their efforts on advocacy. However, FGM has been proven to also have devastating psychosocial effects on its victims. These effects include depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety, among others. The Girl Generation is a consortium that is looking to address this overlooked aspect of FGM. The organization has helped over 500 survivors in Kenya and plans to expand to Senegal, Ethiopia, and Somaliland. The initiative provides counseling and encourages discussions between mothers and daughters in a bid to help them find joy despite their trauma. It also encourages FGM victims to let go of their resentment, which is usually directed toward their mothers and grandmothers.
SOURCE: THE GUARDIAN
