NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 4 - A woman accused of aiding and abetting the commission of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a harmful practice in Kenya, has been sentenced to three years in prison by a Kehancha court.

The sentencing followed her conviction for the offense, which is in violation of Section 29 of the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act.

Senior Principal Magistrate Moses Obiero presided over the case and delivered the verdict, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense and the need to enforce the law. In addition to the prison sentence, the court ordered the convict to pay a fine of Ksh 200,000. Failure to pay the fine will result in a further three years of imprisonment.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) played a pivotal role in ensuring that the case was diligently prosecuted. Andrew Kuntai led the prosecution, and the court found the evidence compelling, based on testimonies from witnesses, leading to the conviction.

During the trial, the victim courageously shared her harrowing experience, recounting how her brother forcibly took her from a rescue center to the accused woman's home.

There, a group of women, with their faces concealed, performed the heinous act against her will. Her mother and brother, who were also involved in the crime, remain at large and are wanted by authorities.

The sentencing of the woman is a significant step toward eradicating the practice of Female Genital Mutilation in Kenya. It sends a strong message that aiding, abetting, or participating in FGM will not go unpunished.

This case highlights the commitment of Kenyan authorities to enforce the law and protect individuals from the physical and emotional trauma associated with this harmful practice.