Over the years men have been one of the main missing links in the quest to achieve gender equality. In most cases, they have remained silent on issues such as female genital mutilation/cutting, child marriages, and other forms of sexual and gender-based violence. With the global timeline to achieve gender equality- SDG5 fast approaching we need to change the strategy. Men need to be seen and engaged as allies, they can’t afford to remain silent anymore but have to Speak Up.

History

Men End FGM is an award-winning global initiative that engages men and boys to actively participate in the quest against female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C), child marriage, and other forms of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) targeting women and girls.

It was started as an online campaign (#MenEndFGM) in the year 2013 by Tony Mwebia with the main goal of challenging activists, CSOs and government agencies to include men and boys in their campaigns to end FGM/C, child marriage as well as other forms of SGBV.

In 2015 young Kenyan activists started joining the movement and it was finally legally registered as Men End FGM Foundation in the year 2019. Over the years it has evolved into a leader in online and offline campaigns against FGM, Child Marriage & SGBV. The movement draws its membership from both individuals and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs).

In addition, the Men End FGM Movement strives to keep boy children, young men and elders informed by transforming negative masculinities.

Our Vision

We envision a society free from female genital mutilation, child marriage and other forms of sexual and gender-based violence

Mission

We are committed to empowering the girl child while keeping the boy child, young men and elders informed through mentorship and sensitisation.

Values

  • Collaboration - We actively communicate to achieve the best results by respecting and acknowledging all stakeholders’ inputs and experiences while working together
  • Equality- We believe in the equal value of every human being and the importance of respecting and honouring each individual; we know that change in communities/ societies happens through people
  • Diversity & Inclusion - We know that by embracing differences, actively including a variety of voices, and joining together as men and women we can solve our communities' most complex problems
  • Integrity - We are accountable to the people and partners we humbly serve, transparently sharing our results, stories and lessons.