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Takeley women’s rights activist takes campaign to Watford and Burundi




Burundi and Watford were the latest destinations for Women of Grace founder Valerie Lolomari as she campaigns to end female genital mutilation (FGM).

The Takeley activist, who earlier this year took her message to a United Nations conference in New York, was guest speaker at the community outreach celebration of Black History Month at Stanborough Park in Watford.

Valerie said: “It was a fantastic day, despite the blustery winds, as the Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust hosted a vibrant event that united a variety of health services and organisations.”

Women of Grace founder Valerie Lolomari and Hertfordshire's Assistant Chief Constable Catherine Akehurst
Women of Grace founder Valerie Lolomari and Hertfordshire's Assistant Chief Constable Catherine Akehurst

Other speakers included Hertfordshire’s Assistant Chief Constable Catherine Akehurst.

Valerie said: “The event was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the rich contributions of the Black community while also addressing the ongoing health disparities they face.”

The married mother of three is a survivor of FGM carried out in Lagos, Nigeria, where she was raised by her maternal grandmother.

She returned to Africa – to the republic of Burundi – as part of a partnership with Food for the Hungry. The Christian humanitarian aid and global development organisation was founded more than 50 years ago and works in 18 of the world’s poorest countries.

Valerie paid tribute to the “incredible hospitality” of the Burundian people. She said: “Their joy, serenity and warmth left a lasting impression on me… We’re grateful to Food for the Hungry for this opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those in need.”



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