On the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, WAVE Foundation Africa calls for action, not just words.
As millions of girls and women continue to face the life-altering consequences of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), WAVE Foundation Africa reaffirmed its commitment to ending the practice across Nigeria and Africa.
“FGM is not culture—it is violence. It robs girls of their autonomy and dignity,” said Lola Ibrahim, President of WAVE Foundation Africa. She stressed that zero tolerance must translate into enforced laws, informed communities, and protected girls.
Since 2016, WAVE Foundation Africa has:
Led community sensitization and survivor-centered advocacy to challenge harmful norms.
Used media campaigns, including radio and TV jingles in three Nigerian languages, to promote change.
Developed educational materials for students to prevent FGM early.
Advocated for stronger enforcement of laws like the VAPP Act.
Represented African civil society in global spaces like the UN, World Bank, IMF, ensuring grassroots realities shape policy.
Mentored young women and youth advocates to lead change in their communities.
“Change is possible, and it’s already happening. Ending FGM requires courage to confront harmful traditions and prioritize girls’ rights,” Ibrahim added.
With ECOSOC accreditation since 2021, WAVE Foundation Africa continues to bridge grassroots realities with global advocacy, aiming for a generation of girls born free from fear and harm.
The organization called on governments, communities, and individuals to move beyond slogans: zero tolerance must mean zero excuses.
Leave a comment