FACTORS INFLUENCING FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION IN KENYA : A CASE STUDY OF OLOOLUA WARD IN KAJIADO COUNTY, KENYA.

Abstract

This study tries to investigate the factors influencing the practice of female genital mutilation among women: a case of Kajiado County. The main purpose of the study is to identify factors influencing the practice of female genital mutilation among women in Kajiado County. The study was guided by the following research objectives: to establish the influence of traditional beliefs on the practices of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM); to assess the influence of illiteracy level on the practices of FGM; to establish the influence of sensitization on the practice of FGM; and to determine the influence of religion on the practice of FGM in Kajiado county. The research design was a descriptive survey method. The target population of this study consisted of the 30,500 residents from 2650 households in Kajiado County. A sample of 335 respondents was picked using simple stratified random sampling techniques from 2650 households in Kajiado County. In executing this study, both qualitative and quantitative methods were used. Qualitative methods were used included individual interviews and questionnaires. Data was then be analysed using SPSS such as descriptive statistics mean scores and standard deviations frequencies distributions and percentages. The study found out that, Women are given the respect they deserve after undergoing FGM. Also, a woman is considered mature, obedient and aware of her role in the family and society if they undergo that practice. It is recommended that the local leaders together with other stakeholders should enforce women and girls’ rights through participatory/advocacy for education-inculture and culture-in- education. The study concludes that the practice of FGM is a social consequence that is affecting a number of women and young girls socially, psychological and physically. The campaigns needed to include topics on human rights violations and the harmful effects caused by FGM. Issues dealing with culture are so sensitive and therefore those planning to tackle the issue of female genital mutilation that is deeply rooted in culture and traditional beliefs, should have enough knowledge on other people’s culture and should not generalize culture. The study recommends that the local leaders together with other stakeholders should enforce women and girls’ rights through participatory/advocacy for education-inculture and culture-in-education.