Alternative Rite of Passage Ceremony

During Josphine’s second round of village visits, she began gently raising the subject of female genital mutilation (FGM). Although the practice is illegal in Kenya, it remains widespread in rural Samburu communities. Estimates suggest that nearly 96% of girls in traditional rural areas still undergo the procedure, though the true number is difficult to measure because the practice is rarely openly discussed.

Many organizations have attempted to stop FGM by threatening legal action or condemning the practice. Unfortunately, these approaches often create resistance. Community elders are understandably protective of their traditions and wary of outsiders telling them what they should or should not do.

When Josphine first mentioned the topic during a village meeting, the response was immediate hostility. Villagers told her that if she wanted to talk about FGM, she should leave. Instead of arguing, Josphine calmly explained that she was not there to tell anyone what to do. She acknowledged that many elders had worked hard and sacrificed to allow younger generations to attend school, and she simply wanted to share what she had learned. What the community chose to do with that knowledge, she explained, was entirely up to them.

Her respectful approach changed the tone of the conversation.

As Josphine carefully explained the medical risks of FGM—including complications during the procedure and serious risks during childbirth—the men in the village were shocked. Because the topic is traditionally considered taboo, many of them had never heard these details before. They turned to the women and asked, “Is this true? Are the things she’s saying true?” The women confirmed her explanation.

Soon a passionate debate began between the men and women in the gathering. Each group blamed the other for allowing the practice to continue. Josphine quietly watched the conversation unfold. What happened next surprised everyone.

In the end, the village elders themselves asked Josphine to create an Alternative Rite of Passage Ceremony for their daughters.

In December 2025, Josphine hosted the first ceremony for 104 girls. Over five days, the girls participated in educational sessions based on the Empowerment Club curriculum, learning about leadership, health, and their value within their community. On the sixth day, families and elders gathered for a celebration filled with traditional dancing, speeches, a feast, and blessings from village elders.

The response from the community was overwhelmingly positive. In fact, the only complaint was that there were many more girls who wanted to participate.

To ensure the ceremony is fully embraced by the community, the Alternative Rite of Passage is only offered when an entire village agrees to support it. Elders must participate in the ceremony and publicly bless the girls. This shared commitment is essential for the alternative ceremony to truly replace FGM and become a respected part of the community’s traditions.