I remember watching a documentary years ago with a friend on FGM. As we watched I couldn’t help but comment on the horrific and disgusting sight of the pictures, she looked at me for a while then she said she is also a victim. I was speechless for a minute or two as I gazed at her with a feeling of pity. According to her, she was warned never to discuss the pains because it is a form of cowardice and a disgrace to her family. She also said it was believed this will keep her legs closed till marriage. Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a cultural rather than a religious practice, and its origin is unknown. However, its practitioners believe the procedure enhances the girl’s health, hygiene, chastity, fertility and marriage prospects.
Rahimasuleiman 