Support Center and Counseling

In 2023, AMNI established a Support Center in the capital, subsequently expanding to include two additional centers in Garoowe and Boosaso as part of the project. These centers, staffed by midwives trained by the project, provide counseling services to women either individually or in group settings. Notably, the services at AMNI support centers are provided free of charge to those unable to afford them. Accessibility to social support is facilitated by various means, including direct exposure to information about the support center for those residing in the vicinity, referrals from other health facilities, and recommendations from acquaintances who have either directly benefited from the center or know someone who has.

Moreover, AMNI conducts a “community education campaign” in the catchment area of the support centers. Through engagements with local women’s groups, religious leaders, village health committees, and other community institutions, AMNI disseminates information about the adverse effects of FGM/C and where to seek assistance for related health issues. The primary challenge faced by AMNI and similar programs is overcoming the ignorance, embarrassment, and shame that hinder women from seeking necessary care and treatment. Inset picture

• AMNI support centers, 14,324 survivors received psychosocial counseling.
• 1,238 individuals were referred to alternative health facilities.
• Medical treatment was administered to 128 survivors suffering from cyst complications.
• 7,544 households and clients of Maternal and Child Health services received educational sessions on FGM/C.
• 2,180 community members participated in Community Conversation Meetings facilitated by AMNI.

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