Female Circumcision: The Interplay of Religion, Culture and Gender in Kenya

A Kenyan woman theologian examines arguments for and against the controversial practice of female circumcision.

Based on interviews with fifty Kenyan women representing Christianity, Islam, African Initiated Churches, and traditional religion, Wangila emphasizes the importance of understanding the gender relationships and cultural beliefs behind the practice and the important role played by religion. She explains the different types of female circumcision and the negative effects of the practice on the mental and physical well-being of women. Wangila calls for eradication of the practice through carefully designed educational efforts sensitive to religious and cultural beliefs.