Browsing by Author "Korir, Augustine Kipkemoi"

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    Effects of FGM (Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting) on Primary School Girls in the Ogiek Community: A Case of Sogoo Location, Narok South District, Kenya
    (Kenyatta University, 2012-12) Korir, Augustine Kipkemoi
    Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) encompasses all procedures that intentionally modify or injure female genital organs for non-medical reasons. Globally, an estimated 100 to 140 million girls and women live with the consequences of FGM/C. In Africa, approximately 92 million girls aged 10 and above have undergone FGM/C. Despite its illegality in Kenya, the practice persists clandestinely among communities such as the Maasai, Pokot, Somali, Kuria, Marakwet, and Ogiek. Although there is widespread awareness of its dangers, FGM/C continues in communities like the Maasai, Kipsigis, and Ogiek in Narok South District. The primary objective of this study was to examine the effects of FGM/C on primary school girls from the Ogiek community in Sogoo location, Narok South District. The research sought to: (1) identify factors contributing to the persistence of FGM/C; (2) understand how community members sustain the practice despite legal prohibitions; and (3) explore the relationship between FGM/C, poor school attendance, high dropout rates, and early marriages. A descriptive research design was employed. Data collection methods included questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis. The sample comprised 82 participants: nine purposively selected class teachers completed questionnaires; 46 girls and three head teachers participated in interviews; and eight men and 16 women were selected through snowball sampling for focus group discussions. Document analysis was conducted on class registers and enrollment records. A pilot study was undertaken to enhance the validity and reliability of research instruments. Data analysis incorporated both qualitative and quantitative approaches, with SPSS utilized for quantitative data. Findings regarding reasons for FGM/C persistence, current practices, and their effects on school attendance, dropouts, and early marriages were presented qualitatively, while enrollment statistics and demographic data were analyzed quantitatively using percentages. The main findings indicate that FGM/C serves as an initiation into womanhood, marriage, and social acceptance, as well as a means of imparting tribal knowledge and adult responsibilities. Although illegal in Kenya, the practice continues covertly within the Ogiek community and is associated with irregular school attendance, dropouts, and early marriages. The study concludes that the continued practice of FGM/C significantly impedes the educational advancement of Ogiek girls. It recommends implementing comprehensive, community-based strategies to combat the practice, and adopting affirmative measures to enhance Ogiek girls’ education. Additionally, the government should establish mechanisms to prosecute those who perform FGM/C and address juvenile marriage through legal channels.