- FGM/C Research Initiative

Regional Prevalence

FGM/C is concentrated in at least 28 countries in a band that spans from West Africa to the Horn of Africa.

The prevalence of FGM/C varies widely across Africa - from as high as 99% (Somalia) and as low as 0.3% (Uganda). More importantly, FGM/C prevalence varies significantly within each country. FGM/C is a cultural practice particular to specific ethnic groups. These ethnic communities often spread across country borders. For example, Somali communities practice FGM/C in Somalia as well as in Kenya (especially the North East) and Ethiopia (especially in the East), while the Maasai community practice FGM/C in both Kenya and Tanzania.

Highest Prevalence

Somali communities across the Horn of Africa (Ethiopia, Djibouti, Kenya, Somaliland and Somalia) have the highest prevalence of FGM/C. In Somalia, the national prevalence is 99.2%.

Most Impacted

The highest burden of FGM/C is in Egypt (31 million), Ethiopia (33 million) and Nigeria (20 million). These three countries combined represent 42% of the global burden (200 million women and girls).

Most Severe

Type 3 FGM/C (also known as Pharaonic) is the most severe form of the practise and is widely practised in Somali communities across the Horn of Africa and in Sudan.