An Assessment of Socio-Cultural Factors that Influence Female Circumcision among Abakuria of Kuria West District, Migori County, Kenya

Abstract

The study attempted to assess the socio - cultural factors that influence girls to go for female circumcision despite the available alternative interventions among the Abakuria community The study sought to find out the •alternative interventions that would support elimination of female circumcision that are relevant to the Abakuria community. The Social Learning Theory and the Rational Choice Theory were used to guide the study. Social Learning Theory was used to explain how socialization plays an important role, while the Rational Choice "Theory highlighted the reasons that make girls and women seek female circumcision despite having alternative interventions as a choice. •The study was conducted in Nyamataburo Sub Location, Bukira West Location in Kehancha Division, in Kuria West District Migori County in Kenya. The study design used qualitative exploratory approach to assess the reasons for persistence of FC. The unit of analysis was a woman who has gone through female circumcision and considered an adult. The sampling techniques were non probability that was purposive and simple random sampling, 100 women were sampled for the study. They were drawn from four churches and villages in the study area of Nyamataburo Sub Location. Questionnaire and Interview schedule were used to collect data. Methods used for data analysis were percentile scores, frequency distribution tables and graphs. These study findings would be useful for organizations advocating and lobbying for alternative intervention in place of female circumcision among the Abakuria community. This studyfound that culture is the main reason for persistence of female circumcision. Parents play amajor role in socializing and influencing the girls to circumcise because they believe it is for the benefit of their girl and family. The girls become women once they are circumcised and therefore assume adult responsibilities and acceptance by their peers and community. This study found that alternative interventions have been introduced in place of female circumcision to preserve the positive elements of culture. The government, churches and schools are on the forefront to encourage the community to embrace alternative interventions. The recommendations of the study were that the government to continue sensitizing the community on alternative interventions, laws forbidding FC . Secondly to support strategies that would encourage parents and their daughters to embrace alternative rites. Thirdly, the study recommends girls and women to be encouraged to attend school and access education to improve their social and economic participation in development. Finally, involvement of adults in advocating and lobbying for alternative rites of passage that safeguard the health of girls and women among communities practicing female circumcision would ensure development and health for all in the society.