By addressing the socio-cultural drivers, including peer pressure, stigma, marriage imperatives, and bride price incentives, this integrated strategy aims to break the cycle of FGM.
Domtila Chesang, inaugural GIWL Changemaker
01 April 2025
GIWL Changemaker Domtila Chesang leads the fight against FGM
A new report on tackling FGM offers practical solutions for policymakers
On March 26, our inaugural Changemaker Domtila Chesang, a leading advocate against FGM, launched a powerful new report titled "Breaking the Cycle: A Changemaker’s Guide to Ending FGM".
Leveraging her extensive experience working in West Pokot, Kenya, Chesang's report outlines a comprehensive, multi-stakeholder approach for policymakers. It recommends robust legal enforcement, expanded educational opportunities for girls and communities, and targeted outreach through community and faith-based organisations.
To mark the report's release, Domtila Chesang joined an expert panel discussion chaired by Julia Gillard AC, alongside Nimco Ali OBE, Monica Ferro, and Baroness Helena Kennedy KC.
The panel explored the legal, medical, cultural, and economic complexities associated with ending FGM and highlighted practical actions policymakers, healthcare providers, and community activists can adopt.
In order to end FGM we have to invest in African women who are at the grassroot level and each and every one of those women and each and every one of those countries have different things that [can] end FGM
Nimco Ali OBE
Our GIWL Changemakers Programme, led by Dr Aleida Borges, empowers advocates and activists who advance gender equality by providing tailored support for research projects that benefit their communities. Domtila Chesang is our first Changemaker, and her important research has been conducted in partnership with The Five Foundation and generously funded by Firebird Foundation.
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Research Fellow