Cabo Verde has long been spared from female genital mutilation (FGM). But today, the country faces new risks. Communities arriving from regions where FGM is still common—especially in West Africa—bring this harmful practice with them. In some families, girls face pressure from relatives. Some are even sent back to their country of origin to undergo FGM.
Lasting harm, little support
FGM causes deep, lasting harm. It leads to chronic pain, psychological trauma, recurring infections, and complications during childbirth. It also strips girls of their bodily integrity.
Yet support is limited. Medical professionals are often not trained to identify or treat survivors. Psychological care is rare. And silence around the issue keeps girls isolated.
Help us
protect girls
from FGM
UNICEF takes action
UNICEF is working on the ground in Cabo Verde to stop FGM and protect girls. Through strong local partnerships, we are taking concrete steps to drive change:
- We train health professionals and future professionals to prevent, detect, refer, and respond to cases of FGM.
- We engage educational staff by integrating prevention and awareness-raising activities into schools.
- We raise awareness within communities and strengthen dialogue with community and religious leaders to help prevent FGM.
- We strengthen knowledge and understanding of FGM through data collection and the strengthening of monitoring systems.
Their bodies, their rights
Every girl deserves to grow up safe, free, and respected. Your donation helps prevent FGM, support survivors, and protect the rights of girls in Cabo Verde.
Act now. Protect girls. End FGM.
