As highlighted in our Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) hackathon-turned-discussion, FGM is a violence practice against African girls. It is widely prevalent in many African countries and is considered a violation of the human rights of girls and women.It has serious consequences on the physical and mental health of the girl-child. It can lead to severe pain, shock, bleeding, infection, and even death. In the long term, it can cause chronic pain, difficulty during menstruation and sexual intercourse, and obstetric complications during childbirth. In addition, this practice has severe psychological consequences, affecting the girl’s self-esteem and dignity, and leading to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.FGM is a manifestation of gender-based violence and reinforces the unequal power relations between men and women. It is a practice that perpetuates harmful social norms and perpetuates the discrimination and oppression of women and girls.Efforts are underway to eradicate FGM and protect the rights of girls and women. These efforts include legal prohibitions, education, awareness campaigns, and community-led interventions. However, much more needs to be done to eliminate this harmful practice and ensure the health and well-being of the girl-child in Africa.How Can 2G Technology Play a Part in Eradicating FGM?2G technology, or second-generation wireless technology, has the potential to play a role in eradicating FGM by improving access to information and education. Here are a few ways 2G technology can help:Awareness Campaigns: 2G technology can be used to disseminate information and raise awareness about the harmful effects of FGM and the importance of abandoning the practice. This can be done through SMS, voice calls, and mobile apps.Reporting and Tracking: Mobile phones equipped with 2G technology can be used to report cases of FGM, track progress towards eradication, and monitor the enforcement of laws and policies aimed at ending the practice.Health Information: 2G technology can be used to provide information about the health risks associated with FGM, including the importance of seeking medical attention for related complications.Support and Counselling: 2G technology can provide a confidential and accessible platform for survivors of FGM to seek support and counselling services.While the above solutions do help in the fight against FGM, it is important to note that 2G technology used in isolation is not a solution. The eradication of FGM requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach that includes education, community mobilization, and the involvement of key stakeholders, including governments, civil society organizations, and communities themselves.In our follow-up hackathon on FGM let's work together, and develop solutions that promote education, raise awareness, and provide support to those affected by FGM. With the help of Africa’s Talking APIs i.e SMS, USSD, Airtime and Voice, we can leverage technology to innovate and reach a larger audience. Let’s collaborate and make a difference in building a brighter future for women and girls around the world.Join us in the fight against FGM. Together, we can create a world where every girl is free from harm and can reach her full potential. Register for our “Anti-FGM” event on Wednesday 29th March and be a part of the solution! https://bit.ly/ANTIFGM2

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