Female genital mutilation still widespread in eastern Kenya

Summary taken from Daily Nation, online March 24, treatment 2011

A study carried out in the eastern province of Kenya, in collaboration with Unicef, has revealed that female genital mutilation (FGM) is still widespread although most women want the practice stopped.

The Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey showed that 88 per cent of women who had heard about FGM believed it should end. Over a third of women between the ages of 15 and 49 had undergone the practice.

The survey blames lack of adequate investment in health care, education and social welfare for poverty and poor reproductive health in the region.

The survey also revealed shocking statistics about domestic violence.

More than half of the women surveyed also said that a husband is justified in beating up his wife when she goes out without telling him, neglects her children, argues with him, refuses to have sex or burns food.