Kabarak University medical student rescued from FGM in 2024 vows never to return home
Sophia Thomas, a 21-year-old third-year medical student at Kabarak University, has refused to return to her home in Kuria, Migori, after escaping plans for female genital mutilation FGM in September 2024. Sophia fled her home with KSh 9,000 and traveled to Nakuru, where she knew no one. After arriving at Kabarak University seeking employment, she was offered full fee sponsorship, covering her tuition for the past three academic years. She had previously dropped out of Masinde Muliro University due to financial difficulties. Sophia now supports herself through a crocheting business and has severed contact with most of her family, maintaining communication only with her mother and a mentor. She visits schools and engages with secondary school girls virtually to advocate against FGM and encourage education, stating that her medical training has strengthened her resolve to fight the practice due to its severe health complications.
