Shudu Musida appointed as global champion by UNFPA to advocate against Female Genital Mutilation
Former Miss South Africa, Shudufhadzo “Shudu” Musida, has been selected as a global champion by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to lead the fight against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). With her new role, Shudu aims to raise awareness about this harmful practice that affects millions of girls and women worldwide.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 230 million girls and women in 30 countries have undergone FGM. This practice involves altering or injuring female genitalia for non-medical reasons and is recognized internationally as a violation of human rights.
Shudu played a key role in launching the UNFPA campaign ‘Patterns of Hope’ on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM. The campaign’s goal is to end the practice of FGM and protect women and girls from its harmful effects.
Ian McFarlane, director of UNFPA’s Division for External Relations, expressed excitement about having Shudu on board as a global champion. He praised her energy, passion, and commitment, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to combat FGM.
Shudu’s plea for urgent action to end FGM
Speaking to Sky News, Shudu highlighted the urgent need to accelerate efforts to stop FGM. She emphasized that by the age of five, two million more girls will have undergone FGM unless significant action is taken. Shudu urged for a 27-fold increase in efforts to eradicate FGM by 2030 to prevent 27 million more girls from being subjected to this practice.
Shudu stressed that ending FGM is a collective responsibility that requires global dialogue and awareness. She emphasized that cultural practices and lack of understanding contribute to the perpetuation of FGM, making it crucial for everyone to work towards ending this harmful practice.
As part of her two-year appointment with UNFPA, Shudu will continue advocating for universal sexual and reproductive health rights by 2030. Her role as a global champion aims to empower women and girls and protect them from the harmful effects of FGM.
Shudu’s appointment as a global champion by UNFPA signifies a significant step towards ending FGM and promoting gender equality and women’s rights worldwide.
