Because of the open cuts, there is a risk of H.I.F.-AIDS affecting the person. We told them that when that part which is cut forms a scar, that reduces the opening of the passage, so later when a mother wants to deliver, she finds a lot of labor problems. Sometimes it calls for a doctor to operate. At times it delays a child to be delivered out, and they die. Some children are born with their heads in not quite good shape, and they remain very dull and cannot make improvement in learning.
Fathers are now on our side.
The Sabiny Elders Association has many other plans for enhancing their people's cultural traditions, Mr. Cheborian said. The language still does not have a written form and is in danger of extinction. The association has introduced some welfare programs, agricultural improvement campaigns and drives to educate people about AIDS and H.I.V., the virus that causes it. Before the award ceremony, he said he had some advice for others in Africa who have defended the tradition of female genital mutilation. Those are the facts that cannot change.