| Abstrakt: |
This study is on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The study was conducted at Aboabo No. 1, a suburb of Kumasi. Aboabo No. 1 is a locality with a projected population of 100,000. FGM is a serious health risk for women and girls and a violation of their human rights; due to this, the World Health Organisation has taken a firm stand against its practice. The literature shows that it has been practised in Australia, France, United States, Africa (Ghana inclusive) and the Persian Gulf. The purposive sampling method was used to select 70 respondents. An interview schedule was used to find out their level of knowledge of FGM, and why they practise it. On the whole, it was evident that women at Aboabo still indulge in the practice, though some regret practising it. The women also confessed and confirmed complications they had during labour and delivery because of genital mutilation. Based on the research findings, some recommendations were made as follows:WHO should channel health education campaigns on FGM through women organisations like National Council on Women and Department.The government should make it compulsory for schools to include FGM as a topic in family life skills studied in the school curriculum. This would help in stopping the practice, as the school children will grow with the knowledge of the harmful effects of FGM.The department of Health in the various districts should strengthen the implementation of the female literacy programmes in the district and in the various communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
