Breaking the silence, honoring the brave: A journey with the maasai against FGM

By Sylvia Ruambo - Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Community Manager and Ambassador of WWO

Since 2018, Dr. Sylvia Ruambo, an Ambassador of the World Women Observatory and a Community Manager from Tanzania, Africa, has been on a life-changing journey—walking side by side with the pastoral Maasai community to fight against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a deeply rooted cultural practice that continues to endanger the lives and futures of young girls. What began as a challenging mission has blossomed into a story of transformation, courage, and hope.

Testimony of Sylvia:

Through our grassroots campaign Twende Umasaini (Let us go to the Maasai community), we committed ourselves to meeting people where they are, listening to their voices, and building trust. Through community dialogues, educational forums, and persistent engagement, I reached out especially to mothers, fathers, and elders—explaining the lifelong pain and harm FGM brings to girls. The campaign wasn’t just about condemning the practice; it was about opening hearts and minds to alternatives that honor culture without harming lives.

Many parents embraced the message, choosing to protect their daughters and break the cycle. However, others remained resistant, clinging to tradition. For the girls at risk, we created a safe path. Together with local leaders and the Catholic Church, we facilitated their rescue and shelter at the Kisekibaha Centre, a haven run by the devoted Grail Sisters.

Over the years, the resistance softened. More community members, especially women, began to see the light. This year, on 6th February, during the commemoration of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, I received one of the most touching honors of my life: the Maasai women recognized me as their heroine. Their words, gifts, and open hearts were more than a reward—they were a sign that change had truly begun to bloom.

This campaign has not been without pain, but it has been full of purpose. I have witnessed girls spared from mutilation, mothers turning into protectors, and communities beginning to rewrite their story.

One of the rescued girls shared with tears of joy in her eyes:

You helped me escape the knife and find my voice. I want to become a teacher so I can protect other girls like me.

We still have a long road ahead, but I believe in the power of education, faith, and collective action. And I believe in the girls—the brave ones we rescued, and the even braver ones still waiting for freedom. Let every girl grow free and whole.