The workshop, organized by the African Union - United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID), is part of the Mission's continuing efforts toward strengthening the role of women through the ownership of accurate information, which can be further disseminated in their societies.

The forum, which concluded on 13 November, provided an opportunity for women, including midwives, nurses, female teachers and community leaders, to discuss how they can work as key elements of change and advocacy to combat FGM and other negative practices in their communities related to women's health.

Addressing the participants, Mr. Andre Mathurin Fouda, a UNAMID human rights officer noted that a "commitment to combating Female Genital Mutilation is symbolic of the effort to strengthen the position of women and women's rights," adding that "FGM is a serious violation of human rights, and its elimination would serve to advance human dignity."

UNAMID is mandated to raise awareness on human rights violations, to establish an enabling environment that will foster the full enjoyment of civil and political rights in Darfur.