For the law to be effective, it has to be implemented by the government, be respected by the citizens, and applied by the judicial bodies. Cultural settings or attitudes towards the law can impede implementation of an anti-FGM law.

Eva Komba: ''In my country, Kenya, the anti-FGM legislation is central in the response to the challenge of FGM. The law was supported by the establishment of the Anti-Female Genital Mutilation Board which gathers a wide range of police powers''.

Farzana Doctor: "It can be liberating to break the silence. I did this with validating friends and therapists who wanted to know my messy feelings and thoughts. They held space  for me while I processed my confusions, self-doubt and fears."