Amref Health Africa in Canada

Today, on World Children’s Day, we’re honouring the theme My Day, My Rights. We join with children and support their agency because every child deserves to grow up safe, educated, healthy, and free from fear.

For 13-year-old Phoebe Nemayian from Kajiado, Kenya, these rights mean everything.
Phoebe dreams of becoming a doctor. She keeps those dreams in a little green notebook covered in hand-drawn words: “My lifestyle book. Dr. Phoebe Nema. Do not steal, please.”

But in her community, many girls her age still live with the fear of female ge***al mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) which is a harmful practice that can lead to infection, trauma, early marriage, and even the end of their education.

Some can’t sleep at night, worried the cut will come suddenly, even in the dark, without warning.

Phoebe says, “Some girls say they can’t sleep because they know they might be cut the next day… it’s a terrible feeling to live in such fear.”

Phoebe was in primary school when she participated in (tag) Amref’s Alternative Rite of Passage (ARP) program. She learned about the dangers of FGM/C and about her rights. ARP offers a safe, culturally respectful way for girls to celebrate their transition to womanhood without harm.

It also gives girls the confidence to stay in school, protect their health, and speak up for themselves and others.

Now, Phoebe uses her voice to advocate for change. “I tell those who still practice FGM/C to stop. We’ve been taught about its dangers.”

Join us in standing with Phoebe and all girls as we work to end FGM/C and ensure every girl has the right to safety, dignity, the chance to learn and to shape their own future.

Because of you, mothers and children are not alone. Your generosity is remembered in every family that finds strength and care in their most difficult moments.

Visit www.amrefcanada.org or click on the link in our bio to read more

Together, we are building a brighter tomorrow. Your support makes education, health, and resilience possible in communities across Africa.

Visit www.amrefcanada.org or click on the link in our bio to read more

Your support gives more than health care. It restores dignity, brings hope, and changes the future. Thank you for making this possible.

Visit www.amrefcanada.org or click on the link in our bio to read more