Background

In 2006 the rural Maasai population from Simanjiro district contacted NAFGEM to strengthen the campaign against FGM (Female Genital Mutilation) in the region.

To answer this request, NAFGEM in collaboration with their local partner organisation ‘Mama Mwema Group’, is planning to campaign for three years in Kitwai, Terrat and Lobosiret, villages situated in the Simanjiro region. Altogether 10 villages are located in the region: Kitwai A and B, Londerkes, Terrat, Lobosoit, Sukuro, Laswak, Lobosiret, Emboret and Marakauo.

The dominant ethnic group are the Maasai, which account for 90 % of the population. 98% of the Maasai girls and women have or will have to undergo the practice of female genital mutilation. Other ethnic groups in the area are mainly immigrated Chagga or Pare. Agriculture and cattle breeding are the main activities of the local population.