FACTORS INFLUENCING THE PRACTICE OF FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION IN KENYAN COMMUNITIES A CRITICAL LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Purpose: Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), is the ritual removal of some or all of the external female genitalia. In Kenya, the practice of female mutilation is considered dangerous and the country has imposed laws to prevent the practice from continuation. The major purpose of this study is to identify factors influencing the practice of female genital mutilation among women in Kenya communities. Methodology: The paper used a desk study review methodology where relevant empirical literature was reviewed to identify main themes and to extract knowledge gaps. Findings: The study concluded that the practice of FGM is a social consequence that is affecting a number of women and young girls socially, psychological and physically. To eradicate the practice, there is a need for education campaigns in the communities that practice FGM. Unique Contribution to Theory and Practice: Research on the knowledge and practice of female genital mutilation and other socio-demographic and economic variable must be done in order to figure out more factors that may influence and promote the practice in Kenyan communities