Abolishing Female Genital Mutilation by Cultural Renewal? : An assessment of Alternative Rites of Passage in Kenya

Sammanfattning: Many attempts have been made to eradicate female genital mutilation over the past decades, yet the sustained practice continues to be a risk for women’s health and agency. In Kenya, an intervention with increasing proliferation is the alternative rites of passage. The approach has existed for some time, however little and highly contextual research has been produced around it. This thesis examines the general characteristics of an alternative rite of passage by combining primary and secondary data. Interviews were conducted with Kenyan professionals working with alternative rites of passage, as well as a systematic literature review. The findings demonstrate the balance between individual agency and social structure among the different actors usually included in the approach. In both instances, the notion of power is presented through the many perceived costs and benefits of female genital mutilation. Rather than focusing solely on the girls at risk of being cut, the alternative rite of passage is a pursuit to reframe the role of culture in targeted communities. Alternative rites of passage are often a systematic and longer process defined by communication, based on rational choice, external influences, and community validation. This thesis serves as an introduction to understanding the present alternative rites of passage in Kenya. By expanding the knowledge of an approach still at an early stage, it is possible for future research to study its effectiveness and long-term consequences on girls at risk of female genital mutilation.