THE PREVALENCE, CAUSES, AND IMPACTS OF FGM: THE CASE OF KABRIDAHAR TOWN, SOMALI REGIONAL STATE, ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) is the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons and is prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa. An estimated 100-140 million women have undergone FGM/C, and 3 million girls are at risk annually worldwide. FGM/C is a significant health issue in Ethiopia, influenced by cultural beliefs, social norms, religion, and health reasons. This study aimed to explore FGM/C and its impact in Kabridahar Town, Eastern Ethiopia, using a qualitative approach with a phenomenological research design. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and case studies, with 30 informants participating, including 16 focus group discussion participants. The results revealed a high prevalence of FGM/C in the study area, with various factors, including socio-cultural, sexual and marriage, and religious factors, contributing to the practice's maintenance. The study found that FGM/C is a harmful traditional practice causing short-term and long-term health problems. conclusion and recommendation emphasized the solution for the problem under studding on the finding’s legal campaigns against FGM/C that allow full community participation is recommended. Finally, female genital mutilation is a criminal violation under the law. because it causes pain, violates women's rights and health, and puts girls in danger. Providing community members with subject-matter knowledge and resources the necessary resources will aid in the abolition of the practice. There are major gaps in the literature, and in particular, FGM continues to have psychological, social, and sexual effects.