In a context where excision remains a deeply rooted practice despite its ban, men like Wahba and Zanaty El-Sawy are establishing themselves as leading figures to raise awareness in their communities. Through innovative initiatives supported by UNFPA and international partners, they contribute to deconstructing harmful traditions and promoting gender equality in their villages.
In his village in Minya governorate, Upper Egypt, Wahba, 53, has become an emblematic figure in the fight against female circumcision. Although this practice is banned in Egypt, it remains widespread: 86% of married women aged 15 to 49 have been subjected to it, a figure reaching 96% in Upper Egypt.
« I ask them what they gain by imposing this practice on girls », explains Wahba during the awareness sessions he organizes with families and communities. “If you get married, why should this woman have undergone mutilation? Wouldn’t it be more important to build a common life on different foundations? »
These sessions are part of UNFPA’s “Generation Dialogues” project, designed to change mindsets by encouraging communities to become agents of change. Wahba, like other participants, learns to bridge the generation gap when it comes to social norms and traditions.
To tackle a subject that is often taboo, Wahba ensures that the experience is inclusive and friendly. “ We gather the whole family – husband, wife and daughters – and spend the day with them “, he explains.
The project, supported by the Norwegian government, includes training on communicating harmful practices. Since 2021, more than 350 community members have followed this initiative, also becoming “Dialogue Champions”.
For Wahba, it was essential to approach this subject in a natural way. Rather than imposing an opinion, it encourages participants to reach their own conclusions based on the facts. When a community member is hesitant to get involved, he shows patience and encourages them to question traditions.
Now, Wahba is a trusted voice. His neighbors call on him when they suspect a girl is in danger. This commitment fuels his optimism for the future. He is convinced that open dialogue is the key to changing mentalities.
-« Discussing with family, friends and communities is crucial “, he says.
Take a stand
Although FGM is often seen as a patriarchal norm, men and boys from these communities can also become allies. The attitudes of fathers, in particular, play a key role.
Zanaty El-Sawy, a father from Assiut in Upper Egypt, testifies to the impact of his commitment. “ I am always curious to learn and expand my horizons “, he confides. After deciding to learn about excision, he participated in a UNFPA workshop in partnership with the NGO Care, focusing on gender-based violence.
« I learned that excision has no religious or medical basis and causes significant damage “, he explains.
This workshop, designed to involve men and boys, also addresses themes such as power dynamics and gender equality.
Initially, El-Sawy found it difficult to move away from the customs of his childhood. But today, he considers himself an ally and encourages his peers to get involved as well.
« Women have just as many rights as men – they deserve to have their say », he concludes.
