Alternative Rites of Passage (ARP) are safe, educational, and celebratory ceremonies that initiate girls into adulthood. They maintain all the beautiful cultural aspects of Bondo society (dance, music, mentorship, and community blessings) but completely replace FGM/C with positive youth education and community celebration.

Soweis are respected elder women in the community whose livelihoods depend on performing initiations. We help them publicly renounce cutting and transition to sustainable alternative livelihoods. KDLK provides training and equipment—such as sewing machines, baking equipment, and agribusiness tools—so they can earn an income safely and with dignity.

Based in Peckham, South London, we host support circles and workshops that help survivors heal from FGM-related physical and psychological trauma. We also raise awareness about health issues like early menopause caused by FGM, and operate a food/diaper bank to assist young mothers in the diaspora.

The Maputo Protocol is a landmark international treaty of the African Union that guarantees comprehensive rights to women, including the right to health and the prohibition of harmful practices like FGM. KDLK works with local authorities and activists to lobby for the full enforcement of this protocol in West Africa.