The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahdo Church Development and Inter-Church Aid Commission (EOTC DICAC) recently conducted a capacity-building community structure training on FGM for refugees and host community members at the Berhale Refugee Camp, Afar Region.

The training sessions emphasized the prevalence of FGM, its underlying causes, and the negative impacts it has on individuals' physical, mental, and social well-being.

Religious leaders, 28 refugees (14 female and 14 male), parents, protection officers, youth, women-led associations, and Refugee Representative Council (RRC) members participated.  

EOTC-DICAC Social workers gave a comprehensive presentation on the physical, social and psychological impact on adolescent girls and newborn female children, described different types of FGM and the referral mechanisms available and emphasized the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in mitigating and eradicating FGM is crucial.

The training aimed to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to identify, respond to, and prevent FGM. EOTC-DICAC seeks to create a safe and inclusive environment where all individuals can live free from traditional malpractice by fostering collaboration between refugees and host communities.