AfriYAN Ethiopia Represents at Africa CSOs Meeting to End FGM in Pretoria

On October 27 and 28, 2025, AfriYAN Ethiopia took part in the CSOs Movement Building and Strategy to End FGM in Africa meeting in Pretoria, South Africa. The meeting brought together civil society organizations, youth networks, survivors’ groups, and development partners to strengthen strategies that accelerate progress toward ending Female Genital Mutilation across Africa.

Key highlights

Date: October 27 and 28, 2025
Location: Pretoria, South Africa
Venue: ANEW Hotel Hatfield
Representation: Bezawit Tesfaye, representing AfriYAN Ethiopia and UNFPA Ethiopia
Focus: Building a unified movement to end FGM through collaboration, accountability, and meaningful engagement

What the meeting focused on

The discussions emphasized movement building that connects grassroots action with national advocacy, centers survivors’ voices, and strengthens solidarity across countries. Participants also explored accountability mechanisms and how civil society can support stronger follow up on national and regional commitments to end harmful practices.

Youth engagement and AfriYAN Ethiopia’s contribution

AfriYAN Ethiopia participated in a youth engagement panel, sharing experiences of engaging young people to champion the fight against FGM and other harmful practices. The panel highlighted youth led approaches including peer education, community dialogue, and digital advocacy.

Challenges and why collaboration matters

The session discussions recognized barriers that youth face, including limited funding, restricted access to decision making spaces, and cultural resistance that discourages open conversation. The meeting reinforced that ending FGM requires collective action, survivor centered approaches, and strong partnerships between youth networks, CSOs, and development partners.

Key takeaways

Youth led movements are essential for sustained community level action and policy influence
Survivor centered approaches strengthen inclusivity and impact
Coordination between African and global networks improves advocacy reach
Funding challenges require innovation and diversified support
Collaboration must be sustained through transparency and shared accountability