An assessment of the alternative rites approach for encouraging abandonment of female genital mutilation in Kenya

Abstract

Maendeleo Ya Wanawake (MYWO) has been implementing an Alternative Rite of passage program as part of its efforts to eradicate the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) in five districts in Kenya. Although the approach has been implemented since 1996 and is a continuation of anti-FGM efforts that started a few years earlier the approach itself has not yet been systematically documented or assessed. This study addressed the factors that influence some families and individuals to adopt the alternative rite while others exposed to the same messages discouraging FGM decide not to. It also evaluated the effect of the training component of the Alternative Rite on the girls who participated. The study was undertaken in three districts (Tharaka Narok and Gucha) where MYWO/PATH have been implementing the approach and which cover four ethnic groups. A comparison was made of knowledge attitudes and practices concerning FGM and reproductive health among households and individuals who had participated in the alternative rite and those who had not. Data were collected through 37 focus group discussions 53 key informant in-depth interviews a household survey of 634 parents 1068 girls and 364 boys and nine case studies of families who have participated in the Alternative Rite. (excerpt)