Webinar Report: the intersection of Climate Change and FGM

The relationship between climate change and gender-based violence, particularly FGM, is often overlooked. However, environmental shifts are significantly influencing the practice, and understanding this connection is crucial for effective advocacy and intervention. To shed light on this issue, we hosted a webinar featuring two distinguished experts: Everlyne (Eva) Komba and Sharon Kibor.

Everlyne (Eva) Komba is a development and humanitarian specialist with extensive experience in research, training, and public policy. She has consulted on FGM for organizations such as The Guardian Media, the Kenyan government, Save the Children Somalia, FEMNET, and The Girl Generation. Beyond her work on FGM, she is committed to advancing women’s economic empowerment.

Sharon Kibor brings over 16 years of expertise in humanitarian action, disaster risk reduction, and climate change interventions in Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia. Currently providing strategic leadership at the grassroots level for the Center for Peace and Democracy (CPD) in Somalia, she supports climate adaptation, resilience, and advocacy efforts. Her work focuses on addressing climate shocks and conflicts in the Horn and East Africa region.

During the webinar, the discussion centered on how climate change exacerbates vulnerabilities that contribute to FGM and then explored the specific case of Maasai communities in Kenya. Climate-induced displacement, economic hardships, and resource scarcity often lead to negative coping mechanisms, including increased FGM cases as families seek survival during economic hardship caused by climate disasters. The speakers highlighted how climate shocks disproportionately affect women and girls, making them more susceptible to harmful traditional practices. They also addressed the connection between religion and FGM, specifically in relation to climate events. Additionally, the discussion emphasized the roles of policy, advocacy, and community engagement in mitigating these impacts. The conversation underscored the need for integrated solutions that address both climate resilience and gender-based violence prevention.

This webinar was an essential step in deepening our understanding of the links between climate change and FGM. While this topic was previously introduced within the network, this session allowed us to engage directly with experts who are working at the intersection of these issues. By bringing attention to this critical but underexplored area, we aim to provide our members, and anyone interested in the topic, with the knowledge and tools to advocate for policies and programs that limit the social consequences of climate change, particularly for women and girls.