Veronica’s victory over tradition
MARA: IN the heart of Mara region, 21-year-old Veronica Shadrack stands as an inspiration of hope and resilience to the indomitable spirit of a young woman who dared to challenge centuries-old traditions.
Originating from Kangaliani village in Tarime district, Veronica defied the odds and fled the chains of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a deep-rooted practice within the Kurya tribe.
Veronica’s escape journey began in 2012, when she was in standard three. As she approached puberty, the shadows of FGM loomed large over her life.
In her community, the custom was seen as a necessary rite of passage, marking a girl’s transition into womanhood and preparing her for marriage.
However, for Veronica, it was a terrifying anticipation. One evening, as she eavesdropped her parents discussing her likely to occur soon FGM, Veronica’s heart crushed with fear. She knew what the practice involved, a painful and irrevocable procedure that could have lifelong physical and psychological significances.
Veronica decided to run away from home. Veronica sought after refuge at Upendo English Medium School, a mission school where she had been attending classes.
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The teachers, understanding the seriousness of her state of affairs, offered her support and protection. But Veronica’s father, reluctant to compromise on tradition, insisted that she undergo FGM.
With the help of the school and the Association for Termination of Female Genital Mutilation (ATFGM), Veronica was able to escape to the Masanga mission centre, a safe haven for girls fleeing FGM and early marriage.
There, she found comfort and friendship among other girls who had shared similar experiences. In spite of the challenges she faced, Veronica keeps on dedicated to her education. With solid willpower, she pursued her studies, often with only her mother by her side.
Her father, still clinging to tradition, continued not speaking. Against all odds, Veronica finished her primary education and went on to join Central Buhongwa Secondary School in Mwanza.
She later finished high school at Lugalo High School, where she excelled in science subjects. She is now set to commence her next path in education pursuing Diagnostic Radiography at City College’s Mwanza Campus. Veronica’s confidence proves her desire to work for the rights of young girls and women.
“I want to be a voice for those who suffer in silence,” she said.
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“Many girls confront problems that society does not see as injustices. My mother, for example, faced similar challenges but was hushed by tradition.” She dreams of a day when communities recognise girls’ rights, particularly in rural places where education is lacking and detrimental habits are prevalent. “I implore the government and society to prioritise education, particularly in areas where child marriage and FGM are prevalent. We need strict laws against these practices,” she said.
Veronica also advocates for changes to the 1971 Marriage Act to better safeguard young girls and provide educational possibilities for women. Her journey was not without its adversities. She met discrimination and stigma from her community, but she refused to be silenced.
Her experiences fuelled her desire to advocate for the rights of young girls and women. Today, Veronica is a beacon of hope for countless girls who face the threat of FGM. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, education can be a powerful tool for empowerment.
Veronica’s determination to break free from harmful traditions and pursue her dreams has inspired many, and her legacy will continue to resonate for generations to come.
FGM among adolescent girls and young women aged 15–24 years in Tanzania has decreased slightly between 2015/16 and 2022 from 5.9 per cent to 4.9 per cent respectively, according to Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey conducted in 2022. This was mostly associated with education level, place of residence, occupation, wealth index, mass media exposure, attitudes towards FGM.
The National Plan of Action to end Violence against Women and Children (NPA-VAWC) 2017/2018-2021/2022 specifically addresses FGM as a traditional practice that harms women and children.
Tanzania is committed to ending violence against women and children in all its forms, including FGM, by 2030 within the framework of the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development.
