Protecting Girls from Genital Mutilation in Kenya

Greetings from everyone in Kilgoris Kenya, and in Europe, and best wishes from the girls of Tareto Maa. Once again, we are here to give you, our supporters, an update as to the work and progress of the refuge.

Those of our supporters, who have followed our work for several years, will know that the girls love to take part in sport and musical events and their achievements in these fields have been considerable. In June, one of the girls managed to reach regional level in athletics. Real Silanto was in first position in Narok county and was awarded a certificate. Even though she was eventually defeated at regional level, this was a very good effort and we are proud of her sporting achievement.

Also, in June, there were both divisional and sub - county musical festivals. The girls came first and are going to go on to represent their school at County level. We wish them all the best for this continued success.

Both these sporting and musical festivals are expensive to take part in and this remains a challenge for the Kenyan team. Of course, we want the children to take part, as it helps their confidence, social and team skills. The support that our friends and followers of Tareto Maa gives us makes a huge difference, as well as a positive impact in the girl’s future participation of these events.

However, the Kenyan Government was able to contribute financially to Tareto Maa with food and supplies recently. A donation of eight boxes of sanitary protection was gratefully received at the refuge. This donation was made possible through the Office of Affirmation Action in Narok county. The sanitary supplies were sufficient for two months. Also, some relief food was given. The girls were very happy to receive these essential toiletries and additional food supplies.

On the subject of food, the cost of grain, beans and sugar is causing alarming concern. The cost of a 50kgs of sugar costs 200 Kenyan shillings ( 1.92 USD). Maize is sold at 6000 Kenyan shillings per sack (57.69 USD) and a sack of beans 10,000 Kenyan shillings ( 96.15 USD).

In spite of these challenges the girls are happy and remain well.They had a holiday from school in May and are working hard in their present studies. Power source for communication, study and liaising with people outside the refuge, remains an ongoing problem. Kenya has also been experiencing another drought and this factor influences negatively in increased food prices.

The new German team continues to work alongside Gladys and are in continued discussions as to the goals for the project for the next year. Astrid Hauke ( Chairman of Tareto Maa Germany ) visited the project in May and reported that the girls were all fantastic and she was very well received. She had a great time.

Additionally, The new German team are extremely gifted in both music and media activities. The creation of a choir called “ Choir without Borders” is one new musical achievement. Gladys herself held another very successful Massai fashion night in Austria last month, where she once again drew large crowds for her fashion show. She continues to campaign in schools concerning the harmful effects of F.G.M.

In our next report, we shall be updating you of our new campaigns and how we are prioritising the refuge most urgent need – the rebuilding of the toilet block.

Finally, it just leaves me to say personally a very big thank you for your continued interest and financial support to the girls of Tareto Maa.

Yours most faithfully,

Gladys Kiranto