Today, more than 230 million girls and women live with the scars of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
Every year, about 4 million girls undergo the practice, with half of these cases occurring before the age of five. If efforts are not intensified, an estimated 22.7 million additional girls could be at risk by 2030.
Experts warn that to meet the Sustainable Development Goal target, the rate of decline must increase 27 times faster than current trends.
The world marks February 6 as the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, a day dedicated to raising awareness about one of the gravest violations of human rights against girls and women.
The 2026 theme, “Towards 2030: No end to female genital mutilation without sustained commitment and investment,” underscores the urgency of accelerating action to eliminate the practice.
“International days and weeks are occasions to educate the public on issues of concern, to mobilize political will and resources to address global problems, and to celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity,” the United Nations states on its website about this day.
FGM is not only a violation of rights but also a costly burden on health systems, with treatment of complications estimated at USD 1.4 billion annually. Every dollar invested in prevention can yield a tenfold return, making sustained investment both a moral and economic necessity.
On this day, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said: "Let us renew our promise to protect the rights of women and girls everywhere, and ensure that they can live free from violence and fear. Together, we can end this injustice once and for all."
In Kenya, FGM is illegal, and the country has strengthened community-based initiatives to protect girls. Survivors and activists lead grassroots campaigns, challenge harmful cultural norms, and create safe spaces for dialogue.
While progress has been made, pockets of resistance remain, especially in rural areas where traditions are strong. The government, civil society, and youth-led movements continue working together to ensure that no girl faces FGM.
The UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme, the largest global initiative against FGM since 2008, calls on governments, communities, and individuals to renew commitments.
The programme focuses on community engagement, training for healthcare providers, and transforming social norms, with survivors’ voices remaining central.
A joint statement by UNFPA, UNICEF, WHO, UN Women, OHCHR, and UNESCO said in February 2026:
"In 2026 alone, an estimated 4.5 million girls – many under the age of five – are at risk of undergoing female genital mutilation. Currently, more than 230 million girls and women are living with its lifelong consequences. Ending FGM requires sustained commitment and investment from governments, civil society, and communities worldwide."
The International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM is more than a date on the calendar. It is a rallying point to educate the public, mobilise political will, and celebrate achievements in protecting girls’ rights.
Each act of commitment, whether through policy reform, mentorship, or storytelling, brings the world closer to ending FGM.
