Female Genital Mutilation: Socio-Cultural Factors that Influence the Practice in Kassena-Nankana District, Ghana

Phillipe Adongo, Patricia Akeongo, Fred Binka, Cheikh Mbacké

Abstract

The paper presents exploratory social research aimed at explaining some of the socio-cultural factors that influence the practice of FGM in the Kassena-Nankana district of northern Ghana. The study uses focus group discussions with male and female teachers (educated), male and female groups (uneducated), and in-depth interviews with Paramount Chiefs, Tindaana, lineage head, elderly women, and providers of FGM. Discussants state that FGM is practised to discourage girls from engaging in pre-marital sex and prepare them for marriage. FGM is believed to be critical to the gender identification of women, to prevent social discord among women, prevent extra-marital sexual relations, and provide health benefits to women. Recent legislation and educational campaigns against FGM have changed people’s perceptions and some believe the practice should be stopped because of its harmful effects on the health of women. (Afr J Rep rod Health 1998;2(2):25—36)

References

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