An assessment of female genital mutilation on the rights of the girl child to education and reproductive health in Uganda

The practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) generally persists in the North Eastern belt of Uganda in spite of legal and other socio-economic mechanisms at national and local levels geared towards curbing it. FGM involves... [ view full abstract ]

The practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) generally persists in the North Eastern belt of Uganda in spite of legal and other socio-economic mechanisms at national and local levels geared towards curbing it. FGM involves cutting whole or parts of a female genitalia, causing significant pain to the victim.

Objectives: To examine the cultural context and cross-border dynamics perpetuating FGM.

Methods: A mixed methods survey consisting of 480 interviews was conducted in June 2013 among the Sabiny and Pokot in eastern Ugandan districts of Amudat, Bukwo, Kween and Kapchorwa. We also carried out 60 key informant interviews with local leaders, former FGM surgeons , local government official and nongovernmental organizations working on child right issues or support to victims of FGM. The study obtained permission from Action Aid Uganda, Uganda child rights NGO Network and Uganda Society for Disabled children, and in accordance to their child protection policies, which guide researchers who engage with children, adhered to child protection codes of ethics and practices.

Results: While study participants acknowledge the cultural and livelihood significance of FGM, a local economy that thrives on FGM has resulted in the commoditization of girls and forced/early marriage and child bearing. As a result reproductive health rights and the right to education for the girl child have been infringed.

Conclusion: The negative impact of FGM on education and reproductive health of the affected girls not only far outweigh its benefits but also constitute maltreatment to the girl child in this region. Several policy and programming issues still need to be considered in prevention of FGM and in mitigating its harmful effects on the girl child and the community at large.