Efua Dorkenoo

Date of Birth: September 6, 1949

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: October 18, 2014

Biography

Efua Dorkenoo, affectionately known as “Mama Efua,” was a pioneering Ghanaian-British activist dedicated to eradicating female genital mutilation (FGM) worldwide. Born in Ghana, Efua moved to the United Kingdom in the 1970s where she began her nursing career, but soon became profoundly involved in the fight against FGM. Her groundbreaking work included founding the Foundation for Women’s Health, Research and Development (FORWARD) in 1983, which has significantly influenced global policies and awareness around FGM. Efua authored the seminal book “Cutting the Rose: Female Genital Mutilation: The Practice and its Prevention,” which became a cornerstone resource for activists and policymakers alike. Her tireless efforts saw her leading various campaigns, providing expert advice to organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), and mentoring numerous activists globally. In recognition of her extraordinary contributions, she was awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1994.

5 Interesting Facts about Efua Dorkenoo

1. Efua Dorkenoo was one of the first people to bring the issue of FGM to international attention.

2. She was the first African woman to receive an OBE for her services to women’s health and the elimination of FGM.

3. Her book “Cutting the Rose” is considered one of the most comprehensive texts on FGM.

4. Efua worked as the Senior Advisor to the WHO on issues related to FGM.

5. She played a key role in the development of the UN’s Joint Programme on Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Efua Dorkenoo

1. “FGM is a practice that denies women and girls their dignity and their right to sexual and reproductive health.”

2. “We must see FGM as a human rights issue and address it with the urgency it deserves.”

3. “Education and community engagement are crucial in changing the perceptions and practices surrounding FGM.”

4. “The voices of survivors are powerful tools in the fight against FGM.”

5. “Every girl’s right to live free from violence and harm should be non-negotiable.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Efua Dorkenoo’s highest net worth is not publicly documented, as her life’s work was primarily focused on activism and humanitarian efforts rather than financial gain.

Children

Efua Dorkenoo had two children, a son and a daughter, who have both continued to honor her legacy through various forms of social activism and community engagement.