Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-03-12 10:02:58
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a practice that has affected millions of women and girls worldwide, is a human rights abuse that continues to be a prevalent issue. According to estimates by the World Health Organization (WHO), between 100 and 400 million women and girls have undergone some form of FGM. In Africa alone, 91.5 million girls and women have experienced this practice, with an alarming number of girls likely to be subjected to it in the future.
The cultural origin of FGM dates back 2000 years to the ancient Egyptian Empire, where it was used to control the sexual libido of female slaves. The practice spread to other parts of the world over time, with some associating it with Islam. However, not all Islamic groups practice FGM, and it is not mandated by religious scriptures. The belief that it is a religious requirement contributes to its continuation in some settings.
Despite claims linking FGM to Islam, there is no evidence to support this. The Prophet Muhammad (saw) did not promote or practice FGM, and there is no mention of it in Islamic scriptures. The Prophet’s daughters and wives were not subjected to this practice, and the hadiths often cited to justify it are considered unreliable and weak. The Prophet emphasized the importance of following his example in all aspects of life, including religious practices.
The health dangers and complications of FGM are significant, including severe bleeding, infections, problems with urination, and an increased risk of newborn death. The procedure is often carried out by unqualified individuals using non-sterile instruments, leading to further health risks. The physical and psychological impact on young girls can be long-lasting and may result in death in some cases.
Survivors of FGM have shared harrowing stories of the consequences of this practice, highlighting the physical and emotional trauma they have endured. It is crucial to raise awareness about the harmful effects of FGM and work towards ending this practice that violates the rights of women and girls.
In conclusion, FGM is not a practice endorsed by Islam or its founder, Prophet Muhammad (saw). It is a harmful tradition that perpetuates gender inequality and violates the rights of women and girls. Efforts should be focused on education, advocacy, and support for survivors to eliminate FGM and promote gender equality and women’s rights globally.
Read the original article on The Standard
