Awa is a traditional midwife. Here she’s telling her stories of childbirth at a community discussion about female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C).

“When we heard there were no benefits to cutting from the peer educators, it reinforced what we already knew,” she says.

“Women who are not cut deliver their babies more easily and simply. With those who’ve been cut – it’s just a matter of luck. Births are difficult and women tear regularly and rapidly.”

The UK is working to reduce the practice of FGM/C by 30% in at least 10 countries in Africa in the next 5 years. Find out more about our work: bit.ly/1krV9Qk

Take a stand. Pledge to end FGM, child marriage and forced marriage now: www.girlsummitpledge.com/

Picture: Jessica Lea/DFID