Towards the elimination of female genital mutilation: An appraisal of Kenya’s prohibition of female genital mutilation Act,2011 (2018)
This study is a Descriptive research regarding All FGM/C with the following characteristics:
Author(s): Akoth,O. F. A.
FGM/C Type(s): All
Health area of focus: None.
Objective: The aim of this study was to provide a critical discussion on the role of legal responses in eradicating FGM.
Study Population: Relied on various legal instruments and literature review on the one hand and both qualitative and quantitative data on the other hand.
Findings: FGM is a sociocultural practice that involves the pricking,piercing,stretching,burning,or excision of a woman’s reproductive organs,clitoridectomy,and/or the removal of part of or all tissues surrounding her reproductive organs. FGM is common in Africa and western countries that accept FGM-practicing migrants. Legislation prohibiting FGM is one step toward ending the practice. During the pre-colonial period,Kenya adopted legal solutions to FGM. Kenya passed the Children Act and the FGM Act after gaining independence. It reduced the prevalence of FGM,but most procedures went underground. FGM is a destructive practice that should not be tolerated under the guise of culture. Outlawing FGM is also perceived as an attack on the culture of the community. If a law is introduced at an inopportune moment or without accompanying social support systems,it may drive the activity underground or encourage cross-border movement. Most regions where female genital mutilation is practiced should organize advocacy and education efforts (FGM) A rights-based approach is especially crucial in the conception,enactment,implementation,and oversight of FGM laws. Legal reform should be supplemented by other change initiatives aimed at addressing culturally mediated social,moral,and religious standards that may support the practice. If complemented by human rights education programs and community debate,a legal strategy can encourage the abolition of FGM. A review of all current national laws in relation to international and regional norms and standards of FGM should include an examination of existing legislation for noncompliance or inadequacies.
Geographical coverage
Region(s):Eastern Africa
Country(ies):Kenya