Uganda: Female Genital Mutilation to be Banned

The Uganda Law Reform Commission is drafting a bill to criminalize Female Genital Mutilation also known as female circumcision.

Officials of the Uganda Human Rights Commission told journalists at Parliament today that UHRC carried out research on the cultural practice in Kapchorwa, Bukwo and Moroto districts and found that it violates human rights.

They say FGM is one of the practices that violate human rights and they made recommendations concerning the practice to the government.

The Director Research, Education and Documentation at UHRC Dora Kabuye says the practice is dangerous because it can cause death, HIV infection and denies the women sexual satisfaction that is their conjugal right.

The MP of Bugweri County Abdu Katuntu says this is a practice that should be brought to an end immediately through appropriate legislation.

A group of MPs has already drafted a private members’ bill to outlaw female genital mutilation, which they say is against women’s reproductive health rights.

Source: Ultimate Media