Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is an outdated practice that has lost its relevance, offering no benefits to the girl child. This harmful practice has no health benefits and is proven to cause severe physical and psychological harm, both short-term and long-term. Today we commemorate the International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation with the theme 'Stepping Up the Pace.'

FGM is a violation of human rights that continues to affect millions of girls and women worldwide. This practice causes immediate complications such as severe pain, excessive bleeding, and infections, while also leading to long-lasting health issues including childbirth complications, chronic infections, and psychological distress.

Despite global efforts to eliminate this practice, some communities still cling to these harmful traditional beliefs. We must understand that culture is dynamic and should evolve to protect, not harm, our children. The time has come to challenge these deeply rooted misconceptions and protect our girls' fundamental rights.

Let us step up our pace and join forces to protect girls and women from this unnecessary harm and promote a future where every girl can grow up free from the threat of this harmful practice. #EndFGM #NoToFGM #ZeroToleranceDay #SteppingUpThePace

#chiomauzodimma

H.E. Chief Barr. (Mrs.) Chioma Uzodimma FIMC, CMC
First Lady, Imo State and Founder, GoodHope Flourish Foundation
and Secretary of Renewed Hope Initiative.