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How a Kenyan FGM survivor reclaimed autonomy via surgery

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George Okachi | Josephine Karema
February 4, 2026

After years of silent suffering, a Kenyan FGM survivor has turned her pain into purpose. Following a successful surgery abroad, she now advocates for clitoral reconstruction to help other women heal in her home village.

Mary Chao's experience echoes that of many survivors of female genital mutilation, who live with both physical and emotional scars.  Beyond pain, the harmful traditional practice often strips women of confidence and intimacy.

But Chao has reclaimed her body and identity through a restorative surgery. Our team traveled to Kajire, a quiet village in southern Kenya, that is still grappling with hidden cases of FGM.

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