In observance of this year’s International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) today, the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, in collaboration with UNICEF and UNFPA, launched eight strategic documents aimed at strengthening national efforts to eliminate harmful practices. 

The event was held under the theme “Stepping up the pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM,” in the presence of multiple stakeholders representing government, civil society and international organizations. 

Addressing the event, H.E Dr. Ergogie Tesfaye, the Minister of Women and Social Affairs, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting women and girls urging every sector of society to play a part in safeguarding their health, rights, and future.

Speaking during the occasion, Mr. Koffi Kouame, UNFPA Country Representative, underscored the urgent need to protect girls and women from FGM, which he described as “a profound violation of human rights.” 

He noted that, despite progress made from 2000 to 2016—when FGM prevalence dropped from roughly 80 percent to 65 percent—Ethiopia still has one of the highest rates globally, with 25 million survivors and an estimated 2.5 million girls at risk by 2030. Mr. Kouame called for accelerated efforts, stating that the country must move at a pace five times faster than before to meet the elimination target.

The eight newly launched strategic documents outline measures to empower women, promote social and behavior change, and encourage greater male engagement in ending the practice. These resources are available in Affan Oromo, Amharic, Afar, and English languages, designed to guide government bodies and key stakeholders in their mission to end FGM, child marriage and other harmful practices. They also emphasize robust legal frameworks and community-based solutions, aligning with the global goal of eliminating all harmful practices by the year 2030.