Role of African Inland Church in the Fight Against the Practice of Female Genital Mutilation in Marakwet East, Elgeyo Marakwet County
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70619/vol5iss6pp52-64-649Keywords:
African Inland Church, Female Genital Mutilation, Church, Circumcision, and FemaleAbstract
Despite numerous efforts by the government, church, and non-governmental organizations, female genital mutilation (FGM) persists in Elgeyo Marakwet County, particularly in Marakwet East. This study examined the impact of the African Inland Church (AIC) in combating FGM in Endo Ward, Marakwet East Sub-County. The objectives were to identify the socio-religious factors sustaining FGM, establish AIC’s theological perspectives on the practice, assess the actions taken by the church to curb it, and explore challenges faced in the process. A descriptive research design was adopted, and data were collected from 100 respondents selected through stratified random and purposive sampling, guided by Yamane’s (1967) formula. Both descriptive and regression analyses were employed to interpret the data. The findings revealed that the AIC has played a central role in reducing FGM prevalence through its strong theological stance and community-based outreach. The church discourages FGM as incompatible with Christian doctrine and promotes women’s dignity through education and alternative rites of passage (ARP). Through prayer rallies, village evangelism, and biblical teaching, AIC leaders have fostered awareness and behavioral change among community members. However, the church continues to face challenges such as deep-rooted cultural beliefs, limited resources, and resistance from traditionalists. The study concludes that AIC has established an effective anti-FGM framework that integrates theological teachings with community advocacy. To strengthen this impact, collaboration between the church, government, and civil society is essential. Practical implications include the need for sustained education campaigns targeting parents and youth, recognition of FGM as gender-based violence, and development of policies reinforcing community-level interventions. The findings can inform stakeholders and policymakers seeking to eradicate FGM in Marakwet East and other regions of Kenya.
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