Document Type

Brief

Publication Date

12-2023

Abstract

Highlights and recommendations:

  • From 2003 to 2022, Kenya has experienced a commendable reduction in FGM prevalence among women aged 15–49 years at the national level. However, this progress is not uniform: regional disparities exist, with counties such as Mandera, Wajir, Samburu, and Isiolo consistently posting high FGM prevalence across the years.
  • FGM prevalence has remained stubbornly high among women with no education, women in the poorest households, women of the Islamic faith and those from the Somali ethnic group.
  • There is a concerning trend indicating a shift to younger ages at which FGM is performed, particularly with an observed increase in performing it at the ages of 5–9 years.
  • Findings also show a disturbing trend, with an increase in the proportion of health professionals conducting FGM (medicalisation), particularly in Nyamira and Kisii counties.
  • The data underscores the necessity of targeted and nuanced interventions, stringent enforcement of anti-FGM laws, and increased community and health professional engagement to eliminate this harmful practice across all demographics and regions within the country.

DOI

10.31899/sbsr2023.1059

Language

English

Project

The FGM Data Hub: Data and Measurement Support to the Africa-Led Movement to End Female Genital Mutilation

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