By Joyce Namutebi and Jude Kafuuma

PARLIAMENT yesterday passed a Bill prohibiting female genital mutilation (FGM).

The object of the Bill is to provide for legislation necessary for criminalising the practice, prosecution of offenders and protection of victims.

FGM refers to the removal of the external female genitalia for non-therapeutic reasons. It is practised in the north-eastern areas of Uganda among the Sabiny and Karimojong.

A person found guilty of aggravated FGM will be liable to life imprisonment, if the Bill is assented to by the President.

According to the Bill, a person commits aggravated FGM in situations where death occurs or where the victim is disabled or is infected with HIV/AIDS.

A person also commits aggravated FGM where the offender is a parent, guardian or person having control over the victim or where the act is done by a health worker.

A person who carries out FGM shall be liable to imprisonment to a term not exceeding 10 years. People who participate or aid the process shall be jailed for a period not exceeding five years.