Creative Writing

Climate Equity in Africa: Bridging the Gap for a Just Future

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By Musa Salihu Introduction: The Unequal the Gap for a Just Future Burden of Climate ChangeImagine a farmer in rural Kenya who wakes up to a sun-scorched field, a fisherman in Senegal whose daily catch has disappeared, or a mother in Nigeria watching her child suffer from heatstroke. This is the stark reality of climate change in Africa—where those least responsible for the crisis bear the heaviest burden.Africa contributes less than 4% of global carbon emissions (UNEP, 2023), yet it faces some of the most severe climate impacts—droughts, floods, desertification, and rising sea levels. The injustice is clear: Africa is paying the price for the pollution of wealthier nations.This is where climate equity comes in. It is not just about reducing emissions but ensuring that Africa gets the financial, technological, and policy support it needs to adapt, survive, and thrive in a warming world. The Reality: Climate Injustice in Africa1. Extreme Weather Events: A Growing ThreatAfrica is experiencing unprecedented climate disasters:In 2022, Nigeria witnessed its worst floods in a decade, displacing over 1.4 million people and killing 600+ (World Bank, 2023).The Horn of Africa is facing its worst drought in 40 years, with over 36 million people suffering from hunger (FAO, 2023).Mozambique, Madagascar, and Malawi have been hit by back-to-back cyclones, wiping out entire communities.While these disasters escalate, funding to help African nations cope remains inadequate. 2. The Broken Promises of Climate FinanceDeveloped nations pledged $100 billion per year to help poorer countries adapt to climate change (UNFCCC, 2023), yet Africa receives only a fraction of this funding.The African Development Bank (AfDB) estimates that Africa needs $277 billion annually for climate adaptation, yet receives less than $30 billion (AfDB, 2023).Only 20% of climate finance goes to adaptation efforts like drought-resistant crops and flood defenses (OECD, 2023). Without adequate funding, millions will continue to lose their homes, livelihoods, and lives. 3. Green Energy Transition: Africa’s Untapped PotentialAfrica has some of the world’s richest renewable energy resources—solar, wind, and hydropower. Yet, over 600 million Africans lack access to electricity (IEA, 2023). The solution? Investing in Africa’s green economy:✅ Solar farms in the Sahara could power the entire continent.✅ Wind energy from the Horn of Africa could revolutionize electricity access.✅ Hydropower projects on the Congo River could supply clean energy to millions.With proper investment and policy support, Africa can leapfrog fossil fuels and become a global leader in clean energy. Climate Equity: The Way Forward for Africa1. Developed Nations Must Honor Their Financial CommitmentsWealthy countries must pay their fair share by delivering the $100 billion climate finance pledge and increasing support for adaptation efforts. 2. African Leaders Must Prioritize Climate-Resilient PoliciesGovernments should invest in:✔ Climate-smart agriculture to protect farmers from droughts.✔ Early warning systems to prevent flood and storm disasters.✔ Reforestation projects to combat desertification. 3. Private Sector & Youth InvolvementAfrican entrepreneurs should be empowered to drive clean energy innovations.Youth-led climate movements should be supported in policy-making decisions. A Call to Action: Africa Must Not Be Left BehindThe time for empty promises is over. Africa needs:Real climate finance, not debt-driven loans.Investment in renewable energy to power its future.Stronger global climate policies that put justice first.???? Africa is not a victim—it is a leader in the fight for climate justice. But the world must act NOW to ensure a future of fairness, sustainability, and equity.

Travel: 4 positive transformative power

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The transformative power of travel

Travel is more than just visiting new places—it’s an experience that shapes how we see the world and ourselves. Whether it’s a short trip to a neighboring town or a journey across continents, traveling opens our eyes to new cultures, perspectives, and ways of life. It teaches lessons that can’t always be learned in a classroom or from books, making it one of the most enriching experiences anyone can have. 1. Experiencing New Cultures One of the most exciting parts of traveling is stepping into a world that feels completely different from what we’re used to. Each place has its own traditions, customs, and ways of doing things, and seeing them firsthand is both eye-opening and humbling. For example, in some cultures, people take life at a slower pace, prioritizing family and social connections over rigid schedules. In others, time is seen as something to be managed efficiently, with productivity being the main focus. Neither way is right or wrong—it’s just different. And experiencing these differences firsthand helps us understand that the way we’ve always done things isn’t the only way. Food is another great way to experience a new culture. Trying dishes that are completely unfamiliar—whether it’s a spicy street food delicacy or a homemade meal from a local—gives insight into the history and traditions of a place. There’s something special about sharing a meal with strangers and realizing that, no matter where we come from, food brings people together. 2. Learning to Adapt Travel isn’t always smooth. Flights get delayed, language barriers make communication tricky, and sometimes things don’t go as planned. But these challenges are part of the experience. They push us to adapt, think on our feet, and stay patient. Over time, we become more resourceful, learning to navigate unfamiliar places with confidence. Travel changes how we see everyday life. It’s easy to assume that our way of doing things is the “normal” way—until we see people living completely differently and thriving. It makes us question things we once took for granted. For example, visiting a place where people have fewer material possessions but seem genuinely happy makes us rethink what’s truly important. Seeing people with strong family bonds despite having little reminds us to appreciate what really matters. 3. The Beauty of Nature Travel isn’t just about people and cultures—it’s also about the natural world. Standing in front of a massive waterfall, walking through an ancient forest, or watching the sunset over an unfamiliar landscape reminds us of how vast and beautiful the world really is. Each environment tells its own story. Coastal towns have a deep connection to the sea, while mountain villages adapt to a completely different way of life. Traveling to different landscapes not only makes us appreciate nature’s beauty but also reminds us of the importance of preserving it. Seeing pollution in a once-pristine location or hearing locals talk about how climate change is affecting their way of life makes environmental issues feel more real and urgent. 4. Connecting with People One of the most memorable parts of any journey is the people we meet along the way. Even brief conversations with strangers can leave lasting impressions. Sometimes, the smallest interactions—a local helping with directions, a shopkeeper sharing a story, or a fellow traveler giving advice—turn into meaningful moments. What’s interesting is that despite cultural differences, human connection remains the same everywhere. A smile, a kind gesture, or shared laughter can break through language barriers. It’s in these moments that we realize we’re not so different after all. Coming Home with a New Perspective Travel changes us, even if we don’t realize it right away. Coming back home after a trip often makes us see familiar things differently. The daily routine that once felt boring might now seem comforting. The food we once took for granted might taste better. And the things we used to complain about might not seem so important anymore. At the end of the day, travel isn’t just about the places we visit—it’s about how those places shape us. It challenges us, teaches us, and reminds us of how much there is to explore and learn. And maybe that’s the greatest thing about it—no matter how many places we go, there will always be more to see, more people to meet, and more experiences waiting for us. Also Read: Mental health: 10 practical steps to help you prioritize your mental health

Unavailability of sanitary pad around UDUS classes

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UDUS Students Laments Unavailability of  Sanitary Pads At Business Centres Inside Campus It was a weekday in UDUS, when the reddish caliphate sun was at its peak. Maryam (last name withheld), was busy going around her academic activities that mounted the hem of her day when she felt the urge to ease herself. Luckily for her, she was close to the academic mosque (one of the masjids that defines the UDUS landscape) so she made her move. Maryam was urinating when she noticed it was the time for her menstrual flow. “I was not with my bag, just my phone, cash and pen,” she retorted. Left in the dilemma of where to get a pad, Maryam wished the blood could wait and allow her to get back to her hostel. What started as a smart day for her quickly transited into a looming embarrassment. For a second, she felt betrayed by the indignity of her own blood giving way between her thighs, down to stain her dress and wished there was a solution close by. “I noticed no pad around the school premise though I’m not sure of the school Mini Mart as I can’t think of going that far. I had to use my handkerchief because I hadn’t finished what brought me to school. The experience was nothing to be proud of,” Maryam recounted the ugly woes that befell her that day. According to Maryam, one of her daily routines now is putting a sanitary pad in her school bag before leaving for school due to emergency and knowing fully well that pad is inaccessible in UDUS classes. Maryam emphasized the essentiality of getting sanitary pads around UDUS classes which in her view helps to save many when the emergency happens. “Sanitary pad is a must for the  females, it is a monthly need and it should be available around the school premises at least it will save faces as unforeseen emergency happens,” Maryam advised. She furthered that, “We can never be too careful when it comes to menses because we experience change of hormones.” Like Maryam, Popoola Tomiwa, a 400 level student of education English recounted an embarrassing day her menstruation met her while in school. In her words, “There was a fateful day in school that I can’t forget in my life, I saw my period in class and I wasn’t with any pad. My dress was ruined before I could get to my hostel by bike because I couldn’t get a pad around class,” Tomiwa told Digest, letting out her disappointment about the lingering situation. She also underscored the importance of sanitary pad to womanhood and why it is essential to get it around school area “Sanitary pad is very important to me and every mature girl out there because of our monthly flow. It is important that we should be able to get pads around our classes because many female students feel embarrassed when their dress is ruined with blood,” she concluded. Period Poverty: The Bigger Picture In Nigeria, an estimated 37 million women and girls experience period poverty, meaning that they are unable to access or afford menstrual products like pads and tampons, but also pain medication and underwear. It’s a situation that remains largely unaddressed within society, even as the escalating cost of sanitary pads over the past five years has made the problem worse, putting an essential product out of reach for a large portion of the population. According to a report in East Africa, 4 out of 5 girls lack access to sanitary pads and related health education. More Woes “I do feel isolated anytime I see it while in the school premises. Because of the possible embarrassment it might bring upon me,” Khadija, another UDUS student, stated. “Inaccessibility of sanitary pads can cause embarrassment and stigma because I might have gotten stained before having access to one.” “Sanitary Pad is important for female fir menstrual hygiene because of absorbs menstrual flow and also serve as a sense of security and comfort when used.” “It is important to have access to it around UDUS classes to prevent females from getting stained/l after seeing it in the school premise before reaching out hostels,” she advised. I would leave the school premise and go to the hostel because I know there’s no way for me to get a pad around the school” another female student Nafeesah explained. Abdulrasaq Nafeesah, a 400 level student of Education English shared her distress toward seeing her menstruation while in school knowing she won’t get access to sanitary pad around the school area. “ I felt ashamed because I was afraid of staining my clothes; fearing that people would discover my situation the moment I start menstruation,” According to her, she knows there is no access to sanitary pads around School premises, so, she would always run back to the hostel when she discovers it is her time of the month. “I’m the kind of person that feels stomach ache whenever I’m expecting my menstruation. So, if I discovered this, I would go to the hostel because I know there is no way for me to get a pad around the school.” Sharafdeen Aisha, a 300 level of education Chemistry department disclosed how stressful it is getting her period on campus and knowing the inaccessibility of sanitary pad. In her words, Honestly, it is stressful. Seeing your period on campus, especially without easy access to a pad feels so uncomfortable and worrysome. You can’t focus and it is hard to feel clean or at ease,” Aisha furthered that she gets her pad outside school which makes her miss class sometimes. “I really wish if something can be done about it” Kawthar Arowona. Kawthar Arowona is a 400 level student of the Agriculture department, wishes sanitary pads could be sold around UDUS classes so as to avoid getting unprecedented embarrassment from both genders. “I have once cried in the toilet before, because I was feeling disgraced as a … Read more

MY BOYFRIENDS SCREWED UP BIG TIME

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My boyfriends screwed up big time

MY BOYFRIENDS SCREWED UP BIG TIME I sat on the couch and stared blankly at the TV as my mind replayed the events of the past days. Really, my boyfriend Alex had messed up this time. I couldn’t believe it. “Hey, what’s wrong?” my best friend, Rachel, asked, plopping down beside me. “It’s Alex,” I said, shaking my head. “He lied to me. Again.” “What did he do this time?” Rachel asked, grimacing her face like one who just tasted a bitter herb. “I found out he’s been talking to his ex behind my back,” I said, feeling a mix of anger and hurt. “That’s awful,” Rachel said. “You deserve so much better.” I nodded, remembering the conversation we had when Alex first told me about his ex. “She’s just a friend,” he had said. “Don’t worry about it.” “Friends don’t text each other at 2 AM,” I replied, raising an eyebrow. Alex laughed it off. “She’s just going through a tough time. I’m trying to be supportive.” I believed him. Or at least, I wanted to. Fast-forward to last night, when I saw the text messages on his phone. “Baby, I miss you,” his ex had written. “I miss you too,” Alex replied. My heart sank. When he tried to hold me while greeting me when he came visiting as usual, I confronted him. “Alex, how could you?” I asked, my voice trembling. “It meant nothing,” he said, minimizing it. “She’s just an old friend.” “An old friend you’re still in love with,” I fired back. Alex sighed. “Look, I know I messed up. But please, don’t leave me.” I rose to my feet and confronted him face-to-face. “You broke my trust, Alex. I don’t think I would ever be able to trust you anymore.” “You don’t have to do this,” he retorted. “Well, I am,” I answered. Rachel reached out and placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. “You did the right thing,” she said. “You deserve someone who respects and loves you fully.” I nodded, knowing she was right. I thought I overreacted but he didn’t try as much as I thought to beg me to return. He did just little. I was broken. The one I trusted had flopped. I sat down on the couch, knowing that all this time, I had been blinded to Alex’s flaws. “It’s time for me to move on,” I said to Rachel. “Oh, about time,” she replied with a smile. It took weeks, but slowly I was healing. Alex tried to win me back, but I wouldn’t budge. It was too late “I’m sorry,” he texted. “Sorry isn’t enough,” I replied. After a few weeks, I was with Racheal when I met someone new. “Hi, I’m Max,” he said, smiling. “Hi,” I replied, my heart fluttering. “I am Bella” READ ALSO A Regret that lasted a lifetime He was perfect, or so I thought. We met over cups of coffee again because we were both into books. The conversations flowed, and on our dates, laughter was never far away. Six months rolled around, and cracks started to appear. “Hey, where were you last night?” I asked him over breakfast. “Out with friends,” he said, not looking my way. “Just friends?” I pushed. Max hesitated before answering. “There was someone else there.from work.” Instinct had kicked in. “Who is she?” I asked firmly. “Emily. She’s new at the office. We just grabbed drinks.” I remembered the texts I’d seen on his phone. “Max, I’ve seen the way you talk to her. Flirty messages, late-night conversations.” Max sighed. “It’s harmless. You’re overreacting.” “Overreacting?” I echoed. “You’re hiding something from me.” Max’s face changed. READ ALSO 5 WAYS TO IMPROVE COMMUNICATION SKILLS “Fine. Emily and I. We have a past. Okay? But it’s over. 5 WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR COMMUNICATION SKILLS “A past?” I echoed, shocked. “We dated briefly before I met you. It was casual.” “Casual?” I shook my head. “You never mentioned her.” “I didn’t want to hurt you,” Max said. “Hurt me?” I laughed bitterly. “You’re hurting me now.” Max reached for my hand. “I love you. Not Emily.” I pulled away. “Love? You call this love? You’re still connected to her.” The conversation finished with Max storming out, claiming that he needed space. I knew then I was caught in the same cycle. It was hard to admit it. “Why do I always attract these guys?” I later asked Rachel. “Oh, you deserve better,” she said. “Probably take time to put a little more focus on yourself.” I nodded, knowing the truth. “No more relationships for a while. They screwed up or maybe I did.” Rachel smiled.

Marriage: 7 things to consider for a successful marriage

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Marriage.things to do

Marriage isn’t just about wearing a ring or having a beautiful wedding. It’s about choosing someone to walk through life with—someone to share your highest highs and toughest lows. It’s a huge decision, and while love is important, it’s not the only thing you need to make it work. Before you say “I do,” it’s worth sitting down and thinking things through. Here are seven real and important things to consider before taking that step. 1. Do We Truly Match—In Ways That Matter? You don’t need to be exactly the same to be a great match. In fact, your differences can make the relationship even richer. But when it comes to the big stuff—values, beliefs, and life goals—it’s crucial to be on the same page. Ask yourself: Do we both want kids? Are we on the same wavelength about money, religion, or how we want to live? For example, if one of you dreams of a quiet life in the countryside and the other wants the hustle of city life forever, that’s something worth discussing early. Shared values make decision-making easier and reduce conflict later on. 2. Can We Really Talk to Each Other? Good communication is the heartbeat of a healthy marriage. It’s not just about talking, but being honest, vulnerable, and respectful even when you’re upset. Do you feel heard when you express your feelings? Does your partner open up, too? If little misunderstandings often turn into big fights, or if either of you struggles to speak openly about feelings, that’s something to work on before tying the knot. Marriage is full of discussions—about finances, family, plans, and emotions—and being able to navigate those conversations kindly is key. 3. How Do We Handle Money? Let’s be honest, money can get messy. Some people are savers, others are spenders. Some are totally fine with debt, while others feel stressed just hearing the word. Before you get married, talk openly about your financial habits, incomes, savings, debts, and future plans. Are you comfortable combining accounts, or do you prefer to keep things separate? Who handles the budgeting? Will you set financial goals together? These conversations might not be romantic, but they are absolutely necessary for peace of mind. 4. Are We Both Emotionally Ready? Marriage isn’t always easy, and it takes emotional maturity to handle its ups and downs. That means being able to admit when you’re wrong, to apologize, to forgive, and to grow. Take a moment to reflect: When things go wrong, do we blame each other or work together? Can we disagree without being disrespectful? If either of you struggles with emotional regulation or carries unresolved baggage from the past, it might be time for some self-work before stepping into marriage. 5. How Do Our Families Fit Into the Picture? Let’s face it: when you marry someone, you’re also joining parts of their family—and they’re joining yours. So it helps to understand where your partner is coming from. What were they taught about relationships? Are there traditions or expectations that matter to them? Also, don’t shy away from talking about your own future family. How many kids do you want? What’s your ideal parenting style? Will both of you work, or will one stay home? These aren’t just “someday” topics—they can affect your relationship in big ways. 6. How Do We Handle Fights? In marriage, no couple is perfect. Disagreements will happen. What matters is how you deal with them. Do you listen to each other, or just wait for your turn to talk? Do fights become personal, or do you work toward a solution? Think about how you and your partner typically resolve issues. If one of you tends to shut down or if conflicts linger unresolved for days, that could build resentment over time. The way you handle disagreements before marriage often predicts how you’ll handle bigger ones later. 7. Are We Headed in the Same Direction? Love is about more than today—it’s also about where you’re going. Sit down and ask: What does the future look like for us? Do we want to travel the world or settle down early? Start a business together or pursue separate careers? Your dreams don’t have to be identical, but they should be compatible. A couple that dreams together, plans together, and builds together has a much stronger chance of lasting happiness. Marriage is one of the most beautiful commitments you can make, but it’s not something to rush into. Take the time to talk, reflect, and really get to know not just your partner, but yourself. These seven areas—compatibility, communication, money, emotional maturity, family dynamics, conflict resolution, and long-term goals—can make all the difference between a marriage that simply survives and one that truly thrives. You don’t have to have all the answers now. But being open, honest, and intentional sets the foundation for a relationship built on mutual respect, growth, and lasting love.

Mental Health: 10 Practical Steps to Help You Prioritize Your Mental Health

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When Born Again Beliefs Collide With Mental Health Issues

Your mental health encompasses your overall well-being. It cannot be taken out of the equation, and must never be neglected. Practical ways to prioritize your mental health includes: being positive and productive, not living your life based on social media standards, loving and prioritizing yourself.

Sexual Assault Awareness and Stories of 4 Victims of Sexual Assault

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Sexual Assault Awareness (1)

Sexual Assault is a silent pandemic in our contemporary society. It involves sexual actions that are carried out without the consent of the other party. It is a crime, and sexual assault affects the victim all around. This, sexual assault awareness must be carried out by you and me. Sexual Assault Awareness involves teaching people how to protect themselves from sexual assault, heal from sexual assault, and educate people to not be perpetrators of sexual assault. Read this article to read about sexual assault, sexual assault awareness, and stories of victims of sexual assault.

A Tale of 3 Women Who Broke Barriers

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Birds Who Flew Without Wings A Tale of Three Women Who Broke Barriers

A Tale of 3 women who against all odds broke barriers, Dr. Yvonne, Miss Ara, and Mrs. Ayanfe, didn’t let their past and background define them; read this article to see their stories, how they flew even when it seemed as though their wings had been cut.

Content Marketing: The Secret Tool for Driving Sales Like a Pro

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Content Marketing The Secret Tool For Driving Sales Like a Pro

Content marketing is a powerful strategy used to attract, engage, and retain customers by creating and sharing valuable content. Instead of bombarding your audience with direct sales messages, you provide them with useful information whether through articles, videos, podcasts, or infographics that meets their needs. By doing this, you build trust, establish authority, and nurture customer relationships, ultimately leading to more sales. But how exactly does content marketing drive revenue? Let’s break it down with a simple example. Imagine you own a skincare brand. Instead of only posting ads about your products, you create content on “How to Identify Your Skin Type” or “The Best Skincare Routine for Oily Skin”. These topics are valuable to people actively looking for skincare solutions. If someone is searching for skincare advice, stumbles upon your content, reads your post, and finds it helpful. Over time, they begin to trust your brand as a go-to resource for skincare tips. When it’s time to buy skincare products, guess who they’ll turn to? You! Why Content Marketing is More Effective Than Traditional Selling Let’s say you’re in the market for a new phone. You walk into two different stores: Seller A just says, “Buy from me.” Seller B educates you on how to differentiate between fake and original phones, explains the best models for your budget, and even offers tips on maintaining your phone’s battery life. Who would you trust more? Most likely Seller B, because they provided value before making a sales pitch. This is exactly how content marketing works. It builds trust, positions you as an expert, and naturally leads customers to buy from you. The Key Benefits of Content Marketing include: It boosts customer trust and loyalty Providing valuable content helps you connect with your audience. When customers see you as a helpful resource rather than just another seller, they are more likely to choose your brand repeatedly. It establishes you as an industry leader The more helpful and educational your content is, the more credibility your business gains. When people trust your expertise, they are more likely to refer others to your brand. It increases organic traffic through SEO Well-optimized content helps your brand rank higher on Google, making it easier for potential customers to find you. If someone searches for “best skincare routine”, and your article appears on the first page, you get free traffic and potential buyers without spending money on ads.  It generates quality leads and sales Unlike traditional ads that often get ignored, content marketing attracts people who are already interested in what you offer. By educating them first, you warm up potential buyers, making them more likely to purchase. It strengthens customer relationships Content marketing isn’t just about acquiring new customers, it’s about keeping them. Regularly providing valuable content keeps your audience engaged, making them more likely to stay loyal to your brand. Now, you know the benefits, what are the ways to effectively use content marketing to drive sales? 1. Understand Your Audience : Research what your potential customers are searching for online and create content that answers their questions. 2. Create High-Quality, Engaging Content Your content should be valuable, well-structured, and easy to read. 3. Use SEO Strategies : Optimize your content with relevant keywords (like “content marketing”) to improve search rankings. 4. Leverage Multiple Formats – Blog posts, videos, infographics, and social media content all work together to engage your audience. 5. Have a Strong Call-to-Action (CTA) : At the end of every content piece, guide readers on the next step whether it’s signing up for a newsletter, booking a consultation, or making a purchase. Ready to Attract More Customers with Content Marketing? Let the Experts Handle It! Creating high-quality, sales-driven content requires skill, strategy, and consistency. If you’re ready to take your brand to the next level but don’t know where to start, TRW Consult can help! At TRW Consult, our team of expert content marketers specializes in crafting engaging, SEO-optimized content that: ✅ Positions your brand as an industry leader ✅ Attracts the right audience ✅ Converts readers into paying customers We’ve helped businesses grow their revenue through powerful storytelling and smart content strategies. Are you next? ???? Book a FREE strategy call today and let’s build a content plan that works for you! Also Read: Editing Tips To Improve Your Business Writing 

Female Genital Mutilation: The Tale of a Victim 1

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Female Genital Mutilation Tale of a Victim (1)

Amina’s 10th birthday marked a turning point in her life. Instead of celebrating, she was taken to a village where she was forced to undergo female genital mutilation (FGM). The experience was traumatic, and Amina witnessed the devastating consequences of FGM, including the death of a young girl who underwent the procedure before her.