Plurality of beliefs about female genital mutilation amidst decades of intervention programming in Narok and Kisii Counties, Kenya

Abstract

Female genital mutilation derails efforts to achieve gender equality and the empowerment of girls and women. In Kenya, national estimates show a steady decline in prevalence, although there is considerable variation at the sub-national level. There is a need to better understand female genital mutilation-related norms and meanings and whether there have been changes in these given long-term and diverse efforts to promote abandonment. Focusing on Narok and Kisii counties, we conducted a cross-sectional qualitative study to identify social norms surrounding the practice of female genital mutilation, as well as consensus or contestation with respect to these norms. Ten focus group discussions were held with men and women aged 18 years and older from the Maasai and Abagusii communities that have traditionally practised female genital mutilation. Study findings showed that norms associated with female genital mutilation such as sexuality and marriageability were actively contested by community members. This change may provide a useful starting point for programmes that seek to create dialogue and critical reflection on female genital mutilation to accelerate its abandonment.

Keywords:

• Social norms
• change
• female genital mutilation
• Kenya

Acknowledgements

The study received valuable contributions from Jacinta Muteshi of Population Council who provided technical guidance to the design and implementation of the study. We are grateful to Grace Mose of Kenyatta University for her insightful reviews and comments.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The study was funded by the UK Aid from the UK Government under the DFID research project “Evidence to End Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting: Research to Help Girls and Women Thrive.” All content is the sole responsibility of the authors and does not represent the opinions of the UK Government or the Population Council.