Community Nursing Services successfully organized a transformative youth camp in the deep villages of Kanyerus, West Pokot County, bringing together over 400 young people for a powerful sensitization forum on FGM, early marriages, teenage pregnancy, and the importance of education.
Although the event primarily targeted the youth, it drew a diverse audience, including small children, parents, and elderly men and women—showing the community’s growing collective interest in ending harmful traditional practices.
The event was graced by key authorities including the OCS, the area Chief, Assistant Chiefs, and Village Elders, who all came to reinforce the message of protecting children and promoting education.
It was especially inspiring to see women serving as village elders—a role traditionally reserved for men.
Their presence marked a powerful shift in community attitudes and showed that change is indeed taking root where it once seemed impossible.
The OCS took the community through the laws that protect children and youth, highlighting legal consequences related to FGM, child marriage, and denial of education.
One of the most impactful moments came from the youth—the guests of honor—who performed drama skits and chanted powerful songs condemning FGM and early marriage. Their creativity and boldness ignited deep reflection among the community members.
Our field officers also gave a practical demonstration using a model to explain how FGM is carried out and the severe physical and emotional effects it leaves on girls and women. This session deeply moved many, with several community members acknowledging the injustice these practices have caused over generations.
Local authorities pledged to join hands with partners and stakeholders to support ongoing efforts to eliminate all harmful traditional practices in the region.
Speaking during the event, the Director of Community Nursing Services emphasized that sustainable change begins from within the community:
“A community can only change when they sit down and reflect, analyze, and realize that these harmful practices do not benefit them. True transformation starts when the people themselves see the need to change.” – Daniel Muruka.
The Kanyerus Youth Camp marked a significant step forward in awakening community consciousness and empowering the next generation to champion a safer, healthier, and more educated future.
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By: Millicent Nelima.
This is a powerful and awakening initiative may God open more avenues for this initiative to move to higher levels and be recognized by the whole government and other agencies to make this vulnerable girl meet her dreams. Thank you am proud of you Daniel and Jacinta👍👍
Inclusivity in such meeting brings common understanding of the effects of harmful traditional practices and give community an opportunity to have collective mind change.how we wish that such activity be done twice a year if funds would be available