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MRG welcomes Africa’s 100 Best Books

23 July 2002

Minority Rights Group International (MRG) welcomes the inclusion of its publication ‘Cutting the Rose – Female genital mutilation: the practice and its prevention’ by Efua Dorkenoo(1) on the list of Africa’s 100 Best Books of the 20th Century. The Awards Ceremony is due to take place in Cape Town, South Africa, on 27 July 2002.

Between 100 and 132 million girls and women have been subject to female genital mutilation (FGM), and each year a further 2 million girls, mostly in Africa, are at risk of the practice.(2) FGM means severe pain and shock, and can lead to long-term psychological and physical problems. But as Efua Dorkenoo says, ‘Rather than righteous indignation, what is urgently needed is understanding of the problem and the practical support to change it’.

The selection of ‘Cutting the Rose’ by the Awards jury of academics and writers implies recognition of the book’s significant contribution to debate and understanding of the issue, particularly in Africa. MRG is currently working on a third edition to cover the latest developments in legislation, attitudes and strategies for prevention.

For further information or interviews, contact the MRG Press Office on [email protected].

Notes for editors

  1. Cutting the Rose was published in 1995. Efua Dorkenoo, a long-term campaigner and expert on women’s health, is currently a Director at the Human Sciences Research Council, South Africa. She has been a consultant to the World Health Organization, and was awarded an OBE in 1994.
  2. World Health Organization estimates.