Breaking Barriers: CLARP 2026 Secures Community Approval for Safer Rites

The Community-Led Alternative Rights of Passage (CLARP is a unique programme coordinated by The Maa Trust that recognises and celebrates the transition from girls to women without female genital cutting (FGC/M). In 2025, the programme expanded to Laila, neighbouring Enarau Conservancy, where 197 girls and 63 boys from 12 villages were celebrated for completing a week-long, intensive mentorship programme.

Meeting with Community Gate Kepeers At Ngosuani

To support community entry for the 2026 Community-Led Alternative Right of Passage (CLARP)), a gatekeepers’ meeting was held in Ngosuani (Osupuko). The meeting convened 32 representatives from 13 villages, Ilturisho, Empopongi, Nkoilale, Naboisho, Kijirrijir, Meigwara, Ripoi, Irpoori, Ololaimutia, Sekenani/Olekeene, Emarti Kasoe and Kishermorruak, alongside four area chiefs.

Strengthening Child Protection Through Community Leadership

Participants received training on fundamental child rights and discussed drivers of teenage pregnancies and school dropouts in Naikarra Zone and Siana Ward. Key issues identified included neglect, excessive phone use, lifestyle factors, and harmful practices. They identified FGM as the leading cause of school dropouts and child marriage among girls, while child labour was highlighted as the main challenge affecting boys.

The meeting concluded with formal approval from the community and school gate keepers, for the implementation of both CLARP and child rights advocacy initiatives across the participating villages. This milestone paves the way for strengthened child protection systems, community-led solutions, and the promotion of rights-based alternatives that safeguard children while empowering women as key agents of change.

Meeting with Community Gate Kepeers  at Ngosuani

The 2026 CLARP celebration is scheduled to take place from 9–14 August, continuing to promote positive cultural practices while empowering adolescents through mentorship, life skills, and community engagement.