Knowledge and perceptions of complications associated with female genital mutilation/Cutting among Somali community (2018)
This study is a Descriptive research regarding All FGM/C with the following characteristics:
Author(s): Hussein,S. I
FGM/C Type(s): All
Health area of focus: None.
Objective: The overall objective of the study was to assess the knowledge and perceptions of complications associated with FGM/C among Somali community in Wajir County in Kenya
Study Population: Somali community aged 18 years and above
Findings: Age,gender,level of education,occupation,and the type of the settlement area are significant socio-demographic factors that influence awareness and views of FGM. Women (mothers and grandmothers) who have undergone FGM/C continue to advocate for it at the forefront. Men who are household decision-makers supported FGM/C. Men and women had enough knowledge of the difficulties associated with FGM/C. (85.4 percent ). This information is significantly more prevalent among women than men. In addition,women were more aware than men of the difficulties that can arise during and after FGM/C. Young adults are eager and able to have their daughters undergo the procedure,but type 2 is preferred. Culture and religion play a larger role in molding the community’s attitude of FGM/C,however the impact of religion remains debatable. Religion (Islam) is frequently cited as advocating for a conduct that has no basis in the Quran,prophetic utterance,academic opinion,or logical deduction. The tradition endures in part because it is believed that suppressing a girl’s sexual impulses until marriage will preserve her sexual purity. 72.1 percent of the community members are unaware of any local interventions or campaigns against FGM/C. Local and international NGOs,CBOs,and human rights organisations in the county should conduct campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of FGM/C among young Somali girls. This should primarily target future parents,including older women,moms,fathers,young girls,and young boys. Local radio stations,sermons in the mosques,school programs,and during Maternal and Neonatal and Child health clinics (MNCH) in local health facilities; male participation in campaigns against FGM/C are crucial means of achieving this. Finally,involvement of religious leaders such as sheikhs and Imams to help as knowledge,attitude and practice change agents within the community should be prioritized.
Geographical coverage
Region(s):Eastern Africa
Country(ies):Kenya