More than 500 girls in West Pokot been subjected to female genital mutilation since Covid-19 was reported in mid-March and schools were closed. She said more than 100 FGM cases have been reported in two weeks, mostly performed secretly at night. “Many parents have taken take advantage of the suspension of schools and public gatherings and decide to cut their girls secretly. The coordinator said many parents understand FGM is illegal and thus practice it in secret. “Many parents also fear subjecting their girls to the cut after some parents and circumcisers were arrested and prosecuted,” she said.

Source: The Star June 16, 2020 18:56 UTC