Gender Cabinet Secretary Hannah Cheptumo has issued a stern warning to chiefs, village elders and other local administrators in Baringo County, cautioning them that they will face disciplinary action if cases of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) are reported within their areas of administration.

Cheptumo said local administrators have a responsibility to protect girls and women from the harmful practice and should not turn a blind eye when FGM is taking place in their communities.

Speaking during a three-day women’s conference that brought together women of faith from across the six constituencies of Baringo County, Cheptumo expressed concern over the continued practice of FGM despite years of sensitisation campaigns, legal measures and efforts by the Government, religious organisations and other stakeholders to eradicate the vice.

The conference, held under the theme “Restoring Lost Glory,” brought together women from different Christian denominations to discuss issues affecting women and girls, including harmful cultural practices, education, family welfare and the role of the church in addressing challenges facing society.

Cheptumo said it was disturbing that young girls, and increasingly adult women, were still undergoing FGM in some parts of the county.

She described the practice as retrogressive and warned that cultural beliefs should not be used as an excuse to subject girls and women to practices that violate their rights and endanger their health and wellbeing.

At the same time, Pastor Salina Chelimo called for an end to outdated cultural practices that continue to be observed in modern society, particularly in communities where Christianity has a strong influence.

Chelimo said the church has a significant role to play in transforming communities and challenging cultural practices that harm women and girls.

She emphasised that Christianity and harmful traditional practices should not be allowed to coexist where such practices violate the dignity, rights and wellbeing of individuals.