ASSESSMENT OF FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION AT UNGUWA UKU TARAUNI

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA KANO STATE

BY

HASIYA ZAKARI

ADCOHST/CHD/20/00

SEPTEMBER

i
 DECLARATION

I Hasiya Zakari declare that this project work has been carried out by me under the supervision

of Mal. Usman Sabo department of Health Information Management (HIM), Aminu Dabo

College of Health Science and Technology Knao. Other sources which has been referred in the

work has been duly acknowledged.

_______________________ __________________

Hasiya Zakari Date

ADCOHST/CHD/20/00

ii
 CERTIFICATION

I certify that the project titled ASSESSMENT OF FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION IN

UNGUWA UKU, KANO STATE, TARAUNI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, is an

outcome of my independent and original work. The project is free from any plagiarism are has

not been submitted elsewhere for publication.

_______________________ _______________

Mal. Usman Sabo Taura Date

Project Supervisor

_______________________ _______________

Mlm. Maryam Isa bashir Date

HOD Community Health

_______________________ _______________

Mlm. Zainab Musa Abdullahi Date

Project Coordinator

_______________________ _______________

External Examiner Date

iii
 DEDICATION

I dedicate this work to my lovely parents Alhaji Zakari and Hajiya Aisha Adamu for their

parental love, financial support and their tiredless prayers towards me. God bless you all.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I am grateful to Almighty God for giving me the knowledge and understanding to complete this

project.

My gratitude and thanks to my supervisor Mal. Usman sabo Taura for his support, time and

guidance in seeing me to completion of this research work.

I also appreciate my lecturers in Community Health Department who have taught me at one

point or the other. May God Almighty bless and protect them all.

I also wish to acknowledge the great support of my parents Alhaji Zakari and Hajiya Aisha

Adam and my siblings Sis Fauziya, Halima, Khadijah, Bilkisu, Hafsa, Hauwa Zainab, Ra’eesh,

Bro Aliyu, Muhammad, Bashir, Kamal, Mustapha, and Al’amin, my family members supporting

me towards my academic persuit God bless you all.

I will like to acknowledge the support of my friends, Aisha Muhammad Adam, Usman Umar

Maryam, and Aisha Usaini Salisu. God bless you all.

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 TABLE OF CONTENT

TITLE PAGE…………………………………………………………………………………….i

DECLARATION.............................................................................................................................ii

CERTIFICATION..........................................................................................................................iii

DEDICATION................................................................................................................................iv

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT...............................................................................................................v

TABLE OF CONTENT..................................................................................................................vi

LIST OF TABLES.......................................................................................................................viii

ABSTRACT...................................................................................................................................ix

CHAPTER ONE..............................................................................................................................1

INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................1

1.1 Background of the study.......................................................................................................1

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM....................................................................................4

1.3 AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY.........................................................................5

1.3.1 AIM OF THE STUDY...........................................................................................................5

1.3.2 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY.........................................................................................5

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS..................................................................................................5

1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY.....................................................................................6

1.6 SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY..................................................................6

1.7 DEFINITION OF TERMS........................................................................................................7

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CHAPTER TWO.............................................................................................................................8

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.......................................................................................8

2.0 Introduction:..............................................................................................................................8

2.1. Concept of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).........................................................................8

2.2. Theoretical Framework of Female Genital Mutilation.............................................................9

2.3. Effect of Female Genital Mutilation on the Sex Drive of the Girl Child.................................9

2.4. Role of the Government in Prohibiting Female Genital Mutilation.......................................10

2.5. Health Implications of Female Genital Mutilation.................................................................10

2.6. Major Reasons for Female Genital Mutilation.......................................................................11

2.7 Summary..................................................................................................................................11

CHAPTER THREE.......................................................................................................................13

RESEARCH METHODOLOGIES...............................................................................................13

3.1 Introduction..............................................................................................................................13

3.2 Study location..........................................................................................................................13

3.3 Selection criteria of the participants........................................................................................14

3.4 Research participants...............................................................................................................15

3.5 Procedure of data collection....................................................................................................15

3.6 Data analysis............................................................................................................................16

3.7 Reliability of data....................................................................................................................17

3.8 Ethical consideration...............................................................................................................17

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CHAPTER FOUR.........................................................................................................................19

DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS...............................................................................19

4.0 INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................19

4.1 results.......................................................................................................................................19

CHAPTER FIVE...........................................................................................................................26

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION......................................................26

5.0 INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................26

5.1 SUMMARY.............................................................................................................................26

5.2 DISCUSSION OF FINDING..................................................................................................26

5.3 RECOMMENDATION...........................................................................................................27

REFERENCES:.............................................................................................................................29

APPENDIX....................................................................................................................................30

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 LIST OF TABLES

Table I: Distribution of respondents by age…………………………………………………….

Table II: Distribution of respondents by age…………………………………………………….

Table III: Distribution of respondents by age…………………………………………………….

Table IV: Distribution of respondents by age……………………………………………………

Table V: Distribution of respondents by age…………………………………………………….

Table VI: Distribution of respondents by age…………………………………………………….

Table VII: Distribution of respondents by age………………………………………………….

Table VIII: Distribution of respondents by age………………………………………………….

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 ABSTRACT

This project study titled “assessment of female genital mutilation in Unguwa Uku,

Tarauni local Kano state” is aimed at investigating the effect of female genital mutilation

on the sex drive of the girl child, the role of the government in prohibiting female genital

mutilation, health implication of female genital mutilation, and to ascertain the major

reason for female genital mutilation in the selected study area. Self-administered

questionnaire will be used to collect data from the randomly selected respondents in the

study area after undergoing reliability and validity test and structured from the four

research questions on the topic. Recommendation will be drawn at the conclusion of the

study for individuals, communities and the government regarding female genital

mutilation.

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 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Female genital mutilation (FGM) is

defined as all procedures which involve partial or total removal of the external female

genitalia and/or injury to the female genital organs, whether for cultural or any other non-

therapeutic reasons (World Health Organization 1998). Worldwide, government and non-

governmental organizations frown at FGM having seen it as an infringement on the

physical and psychosexual integrity of the female child. Nigeria was said to have the

highest absolute number of cases of FGM in the world, accounting for about one-quarter

of the estimated 115– 130 million circumcised women worldwide (UNICEF 2001). The

prevalence rate of FGM was put at 41% among adult Nigerian women (Okeke 2012).

Nigeria is a country in West Africa bordering the Gulf of Guinea between Benin and

Cameroon. It has an area of 923,768.00 sq kilometers with a population of 140,431,790

according to the 2006 National Population census (National Bureau of Statistics 2006).

The male constituted 71,345,488 while the female were 69,086,302 (National Bureau of

Statistics 2006). This study was donein a tertiary hospital in Edo State, one of the 36

states of Nigeria. Edo State has a population of 2,398,957with the female being

1,215,487and the male 69,086,302 (National Bureau of Statistics 2006). It is majorly

inhabited by the Edo’s who are noted for high level of literacy in terms of formal

education and is reputed to have produced the reasonable number of professors in Nigeria

(Adesina 2008).The 2008 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey showed that 30% of

1
female surveyed between ages 15- 40years had undergone female circumcision with the

Yoruba and igbo ethnic groups having the highest percentage (58.4% and 51.4%

respectively) (National Population Commission 2009).Olamijulo et al., reported the

prevalence of FGM among children examined at the child welfare clinic, Wesley Guild

Hospital, Ilesha, Nigeria to be 66.3%.The following states in Nigeria have prohibited this

act since 1999;Abia, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Ogun, Osun and Rivers. However,

with increasing awareness of the complication of FGM, there is a recent ban on the

practice in Nigeria as a nation in year 2015. The prevalence rate is therefore expected to

progressively decline in the younger age groups. FGM practiced in Nigeria is classified

into four typesas follows; clitoridectomy or Type I, this involves the removal of the

prepuce or the hood of the clitoris and all or part of the clitoris. Type II or “sunna” is a

more severe practice that involves the removal of the clitoris along with partial or total

excision of the labia minora. Type III (infibulation), involves the removal of the clitoris,

the labia minora and adjacent medial part of the labia majora and the stitching of the

vaginal orifice, leaving an opening of the size of a pin head to allow for menstrual flow or

urine. Type IV or other unclassified types include introcision and gishiri cuts,

hymenectomy, scraping and/or cutting of the vagina, the introduction of corrosive

substances and herbs in the vagina, and other forms. Consequences of female genital

mutilation include increased risks of urinary tract infections, bleeding, bacterial

vaginosis, dyspareunia, obstetric complications, psychological problems such as

depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, low self-esteem, etc (Behrendt and

Moritz, 2005), Abdulcadir and Dällenbach, 2013), Amin et al.,., 2013), Andersson et al.,.,

2
2012), Andro et al.Female genital mutilation is classified into four major types (WHO,

1996). The most common type of the female genital mutilation is type 2 which account

for up to 80% of all cases while the most extreme form which is type 3 constitutes about

15% of the total procedures(WHO, 1996; Oduro et al., 2006). Types 1 and 4 of FGM

constitute the remaining 5%. The consequences vary according to the type of FGM and

severity of the procedure (Onuh et al., 2006; Oduro et al., 2006). The practice of FGM

has diverse repercussions on the physical, psychological, sexual and reproductive health

of women, severely deteriorating their current and future quality of life (Oduro et al.,

2006; Larsen, 2002). The immediate complications include: severe pain, shock,

haemorrhage, urinary complications, injury to adjacent tissue and even death (Onuh et al.,

2006; Oduro et al., 2006; Larsen, 2002). The long term complications include: urinary

incontinence, painful sexual intercourse, sexual dysfunction, fistula formation, infertility,

menstrual dysfunctions, and difficulty with child birth (Akpuaka, 1998; Okonofua et al.,

2002; Oguguo and Egwuatu, 1982). The physical and psychological sequelae of female

genital mutilation have been well highlighted in many literatures (Onuh et al., 2006;

Oduro et al., 2006; Badejo, 1983; Klouman et al., 2005; ACHPR, 2003; Ibekwe, 2004).

Recently, there has been serious concern on the increased rate of transmission of Human

Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) following this practice (WHO, 1996; Klouman et al.,

2005). The practice is also a violation of the human rights of the women and girl child.

FGM categorically violates the right to health, security and physical integrity, freedom

from torture and cruelty, inhuman or degrading treatment and the right to life when the

procedure results in death. It constitutes an extreme form of violation, intimidation and

3
discrimination. Despite its numerous complications, this harmful practice has continued

unabated, notwithstanding that Nigeria ratified the Maputo Protocols and was one of the

countries that sponsored a resolution at the 46th World Health Assembly calling for the

eradication of female genital mutilation in all nation (Klouman et al., 2005; ACHPR,

2003; Idowu, 2008).

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is regrettably persistent in many parts

of the world. This occurs commonly in developing countries where it is firmly anchored

on culture and tradition, not minding many decades of campaign and legislation against

the practice (Onuh et al., 2006; WHO, 2008). Female genital mutilation comprises any

procedure involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other

injury to the female genital organs for cultural, religious or other non-therapeutic reason

(WHO, 2008; WHO, 1996). The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that

between 100 and 140 million girls and women worldwide are presently living with

female genital mutilation and every year about three million girls are at risk (WHO,

2008). It is in view of this that the researcher intends to assess the effect of female genital

mutilation.

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1.3 AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

1.3.1 AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of the study is to examine the assessment of female genital mutilation in

Unguwa Uku, Kano state.

1.3.2 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

The main objective of the study is on an assessment of female genital mutilation in

Unguwa Uku, Kano state. But to aid the completion of the study, the researcher intends to

achieve the following sub-objective;

i) To investigate the effect of female genital mutilation on the sex drive of the girl child

ii) To investigate the role of the government in prohibiting female genital mutilation

iii) To investigate the health implication of female genital mutilation

iv) To ascertain the major reason for female genital mutilation

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

To aid the completion of the study, the following research questions were formulated by

the researcher

i. What are the effects of female genital mutilation on the sex drive of the girl

child?

ii. What are the roles of the government in prohibiting female genital mutilation?

iii. What are the health implications of female genital mutilation?

iv. What are the major reasons for female genital mutilation?

5
1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

At the completion of the study, it is believed that the study will be of great important to

the federal ministry of women affair and the house committee on women affairs as the

study will help them formulate policy that will help prohibit or eliminate the archaic and

orthodox practice of female genital mutilation, the study will also be of great importance

to every parent as the study seek to expose the dangers of female genital mutilation

among female. The study will also be of great importance to student who intend to

embark on a study in similar topic as the findings of the study will serve as a pathfinder

to them. Finally the study will be of great importance to students, teachers and the

general public as the finding will add to the pool of existing literature.

1.6 SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

The scope of the study covers an assessment on female genital mutilation in Unguwa

Uku, Tarauni L.G.A, Kano state. But in the cause of the study, some factors will be

considered as to limiting the scope of the study

a) AVAILABILITY OF RESEARCH MATERIAL: The research material

available to the researcher is insufficient, thereby limiting the study.

b) TIME: The time frame allocated to the study does not enhance wider coverage

as the researcher has to combine other academic activities and examinations with the

study.

6
c) FINANCE: The finance available for the research work does not allow for wider

coverage as resources are very limited as the researcher has other academic bills to

cover

1.7 DEFINITION OF TERMS

Female

Female is the sex of an organism, or a part of an organism, that produces non-

mobile ova (egg cells). Barring rare medical conditions, most female mammals, including

female humans, have two X chromosomes.

Female genital mutilation

Female genital mutilation (FGM), also known as female genital cutting and female

circumcision, is the ritual cutting or removal of some or all of the external

female genitalia. The practice is found in Africa, Asia and the Middle East, and within

communities from countries in which FGM is common

Reproductive health

Reproductive health implies that people are able to have a responsible, satisfying

and safer sex life and that they have the capability to reproduce and the freedom to

decide if, when and how often to do so.

7
 CHAPTER TWO

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

2.0 Introduction:

This chapter provides a comprehensive literature review on the assessment of Female

Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Nigeria. It highlights the concept of FGM, the theoretical

framework surrounding this harmful practice, the impact on the sex drive of the girl child,

the role of the government in prohibiting FGM, the health implications, and the major

reasons behind its persistence. This literature review will draw upon a wide range of

scholarly articles, reports, and relevant literature to provide a comprehensive analysis of

FGM in Nigeria.

2.1. Concept of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

Female Genital Mutilation, also known as female genital cutting or female circumcision,

refers to the deliberate alteration or removal of the external female genitalia for non-

medical reasons. It is a deeply rooted cultural practice that has been prevalent in many

African countries, including Nigeria. FGM is usually performed on girls between infancy

and adolescence and is often carried out by traditional practitioners using unsterilized

instruments. The practice varies in severity, ranging from partial removal of the clitoris to

complete removal of the clitoris and labia, followed by the stitching of the vaginal

opening.

8
2.2. Theoretical Framework of Female Genital Mutilation

To understand the phenomenon of FGM, several theoretical frameworks have been

proposed. One such framework is the social norms theory, which suggests that FGM

persists due to deeply ingrained cultural beliefs and social pressure. It is often linked to

notions of purity, modesty, and marriageability within certain communities. Another

framework is the human rights perspective, which emphasizes that FGM violates the

rights of women and girls to bodily integrity, health, and freedom from violence. The

intersectionality theory also plays a role, as FGM disproportionately affects marginalized

groups, perpetuating gender inequality.

2.3. Effect of Female Genital Mutilation on the Sex Drive of the Girl Child

FGM has significant physical and psychological consequences, including the potential to

impact the sex drive of girls who have undergone the procedure. The removal or

alteration of sensitive genital tissue can lead to chronic pain, scarring, and infections,

making sexual intercourse a painful or unpleasant experience. These physical

complications, combined with psychological trauma and cultural beliefs surrounding

sexuality, can lead to decreased sexual desire, aversion to sexual activity, and difficulty

experiencing sexual pleasure.

Several studies have shown a correlation between FGM and sexual dysfunction. A study

conducted in Sudan (El-Defrawi et al., 2001) found that women who had undergone

FGM were more likely to experience pain during intercourse and were less likely to

achieve orgasm compared to those who had not undergone the procedure. Another study

9
in Nigeria (Okonofua et al., 2002) reported similar findings, with women who had

undergone FGM more likely to have sexual problems, including reduced sexual desire

and difficulties with arousal and orgasm.

2.4. Role of the Government in Prohibiting Female Genital Mutilation

Governments play a crucial role in addressing and combating FGM. Many countries,

including Nigeria and other African nations, have enacted laws and policies to prohibit

and criminalize FGM. These legal frameworks aim to raise awareness, protect girls and

women from the practice, and hold perpetrators accountable. Additionally, governments

have implemented educational campaigns to challenge the cultural norms and beliefs that

perpetuate FGM. International organizations such as the United Nations and World

Health Organization have also advocated for the elimination of FGM and provided

support to governments in implementing anti-FGM measures.

2.5. Health Implications of Female Genital Mutilation

FGM has severe health implications for girls and women. Immediate complications

include severe pain, bleeding, infections, and urinary problems. Long-term consequences

may include recurrent infections, cysts, complications during childbirth, and

psychological trauma. FGM can increase the risk of maternal and neonatal mortality, as

well as complications such as fistula and stillbirth. The physical and emotional

consequences of FGM have a profound impact on the overall well-being and quality of

life of affected individuals.

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2.6. Major Reasons for Female Genital Mutilation

The reasons behind the perpetuation of FGM are multifaceted and complex. They vary

across different communities and can include cultural, social, and economic factors.

Some of the major reasons for FGM include:

a. Social acceptance and cultural identity: FGM is deeply embedded in certain cultural

practices and is often seen as a rite of passage, a way to maintain social acceptance, and

preserve cultural identity.

b. Gender inequality and control of female sexuality: FGM is sometimes associated with

controlling female sexuality, ensuring virginity before marriage, and curbing perceived

promiscuity.

c. Marriage ability and social status: In some communities, FGM is considered a

prerequisite for marriage. Women who have not undergone the procedure may face social

exclusion and diminished marriage prospects.

d. Hygiene and aesthetics: FGM is erroneously believed to promote cleanliness,

femininity, and beauty in some communities.

e. Misconceptions about health benefits: In certain contexts, FGM is mistakenly believed

to have health benefits, such as preventing diseases or ensuring a healthy childbirth.

2.7 Summary

In this chapter, a comprehensive review of related literature was conducted to explore the

concept of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The theoretical framework provided

11
insights into understanding FGM from cultural relativism, feminist theories, and human

rights perspectives. The review highlighted the detrimental effects of FGM on the sex

drive of the girl child, including physical, psychological, and sexual health implications.

The role of the government in prohibiting FGM through legislation, policy development,

and collaboration with stakeholders was discussed. The chapter also addressed the major

reasons for the persistence of FGM, including cultural, social, and traditional factors.

Overall, this literature review contributes to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted

aspects of FGM, emphasizing the urgent need for preventive measures, healthcare

services, and a rights-based approach to eliminate this harmful practice.

12
 CHAPTER THREE

RESEARCH METHODOLOGIES

3.1 Introduction

Research methodology is the choice one makes how to study a certain topic by gathering

data and the methods she/he uses to analyze data in research (Silverman 2005).

Qualitative methodology of data collection was used in collecting the materials for the

research. As defined by Miller and Crabtree (1992) the methods are more than one. It

involves exploring attitudes, behavior, and experiences of the group studied. This

research will focus on the experiences of Female Genital Mutilation among African

women with experiences of FGM and knows more about it. The qualitative approach was

valuable in obtaining more details that could not be achieved in numerical data or by

using, for example, a questionnaire. By using interviews, the data is based on true

personal feelings of the participants who took part in the study. The interviews were

made simple and clear to avoid misunderstandings, between the researcher and the

research participants.

3.2 Study location

The research took place in small towns in Unguwa Uku, Tarauni L.G.A, Kano state.

Tarauni Local Government Area has its administrative capital situated in Ungwar Uku

town which is one of the serving forty-four local government areas under Kano central

state senatorial zone with the Executive Chairman and his Honorable members in charge

of the communities and towns grass root development as they are at the lowest tier of the

government following the state and federal government respectively.

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The Unguwa Uku Primary Health Centre is a Public hospital, located at Unguwa Uku,

Tarauni Local Government, Kano State. It was established on 1/1/2000, and operates on

24hours basis.

The Unguwa Uku Primary Health Centre is Licensed hospital by the Nigeria Ministry of

Health, with facility code 19/38/1/1/1/0014 and registered as Primary Health Care Centre.

The factors that contributed to choosing these particular towns were that the places were

easily accessible in terms of transportation. Most of the participants have been living in

these places for quite a long time in their permanent homes. If I were planning to get

more participants then it would have been easier for me to find them from here with the

help of the interviewed participants.

3.3 Selection criteria of the participants

The selection criteria of the participants was based on, choosing those women who have

been victims of female genital mutilation and have witnessed it practiced on other people

either their close friends or their family members. The participants used in this research

were chosen from a social network of people that I am familiar with. In number, four

participants were chosen to participate in the research process.

The reason for only having four participants for the research was, to ensure that adequate

time would be allocated to each of the participants to tell their story and for the researcher

to be able to do the analysis. All the interviews were conducted in English language

because the participants would communicate well in English. During the process, I did

not encounter any difficulties except some participants being emotional.

14
However, this did not prevent me from continuing with the interviews.

3.4 Research participants

In total, four participants took part in the interviewing process. Their ages varied between

20-35 years old. All had undergone female genital mutilation in their own communities.

Three of them had no educational background, as they had not attended school before

only one is a secondary school graduate.

Three were married with children and currently lived with their families, while one was

single.

3.5 Procedure of data collection

Data collection was based on ten interview questions that were open-ended (appendix1)

Open-ended questions are unstructured questions in which the respondent answers by

using his or her own words (Seidman 1998). Two different types of methods were used to

gather the information for the research. This included interviews and materials researched

from the different books on female genital mutilation and internet web pages that other

researchers have done research.

The interviews took place at mutually agreed time, date, and location chosen by the

participants. Several authors suggest that ninety minutes is the optimum length for a

qualitative research interview (Hermanowiez and Seidman 1998).

All the participants chose to have the interviews with no one present except me. The

interviews were done in their homes as they felt save, free to express themselves and

15
easier for them to concentrate as it is the kind of environment they are used to. The

interviews took place within one month at the agreed time with the participants Three of

the participants chose to have the interviews in the morning from 9am - to 11 am. The

reason why they chose this time of the day was that at that time they would be alone in

the homes to avoid disturbance.

While the children ware at school and their husbands at work. The other reason was to

avoid their children and husbands seeing them in pain when remembering about the FGM

practice. FGM practice is a sensitive topic that is usually not discussed among men and

women and outsiders because of fear of being judged. Therefore, the husbands would not

be present during the interviews.

The women agreed to open up their stories because they were victims of female genital

mutilation at younger age and they did not have anyone to talk to about what underwent

through. They therefore felt it is good to share with me their stories and through them,

those who still practice FGM will know the dangers involved and abandon the practice.

Another reason was, they wanted to let other who does not know about the practice to

know about it and be able to help the young children who are growing up in those

countries, which practice FGM as part of their culture.

3.6 Data analysis

Analysis was based on the data provided by four participants through ten open- ended

interview questions. The transcripts of interviews were read several times, according to

what the participants were saying they had undergone through during female genital

16
mutilation process. The important points that related to answering the research questions

were grouped together and those that carried the similar information grouped differently.

The information obtained from the ten interview questions were then used to formulate

the following six themes that are used in the data analysis chapter.

- Flashbacks of the women from the practice

- Procedure of FGM

- Complications/ consequences

- Culture

- Religious views

- Human rights

3.7 Reliability of data

Like Golafshani (2003), he defines reliability as the degree of consistence with which

results of a study can be reproduced again using the same methodology. To produce

reliable results, qualitative research methods, such as interviews, and literature reviews

were used in this research to gather all the information mentioned in this thesis about

female genital mutilation.

3.8 Ethical consideration

Ethical considerations were addressed at the beginning before starting the interviews.

17
Any sensitive issues that could have been distressing to the participants were considered.

It was made clear to the participants that they can terminate the interview at any stage

should they feel uncomfortable with certain questions.

To ensure confidentiality of the participant’s welfare, their identities were protected and

any names used have been changed. According to Polit and Hungler (1997), the

participation of human subjects in research, especially if one is researching experiences,

must be taken care to ensure the participants are protected. During the interview process,

the tape-recorder was used to record all the interviews with the permission granted from

the participants. At the end of all the four interviews, the time was taken to transcribe the

data and reflects on it. Data was then coded according to the questions and six themes

developed from the ten interview questions. The six themes will be used to analyze all the

interviews.

18
 CHAPTER FOUR

DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS

4.0 INTRODUCTION

In this chapter the data is presented and analyzed using frequency and percentage.

A total number of Eighty (80) questionnaires were distributed to the respondents for the

purpose of this research project, and eighty were completed and successfully retrieved,

therefore, the analysis of this study is based on the respondents score of the questionnaire.

From Table 4.1 Most of the respondents are age between 19 – 23 years covered 50.0%,

about 6.25% aged 34 – 39 and 40 years and above.

4.1 results

Table 4.1 Distribution of respondents by Age

Age Respondents Percentage

≤ 18 15 18.7

19-23 40 50.0

24-28 9 11.3

29-33 6 7.5

34-39 5 6.25

≥ 40 5 6.25

Total 80 100

Sources: field work

From Table 4.1Most of the respondents are age between 19 – 23 years covered 50.0%,

about 6.25% aged 34 – 39 and 40 years and above.

19
Table 4.2 Distribution of respondents by Level of Education

Education Respondents Percentage

Primary 57 71.4

Secondary 19 23.6

Tertiary 4 5

Total 80 100

Sources: field work

From Table 4.2 Majority of the respondents attended Primary, about 71.4% attended

Primary only 5% attended Tertiary Education.

Table 4.3 Distribution of respondents by Marital Status

Material status Respondents Percentage

Married 44 55

Single 16 20

Divorce 20 25

Total 80 100

Sources: field work

From Table 4.5 Majority of the respondents 55% are still in marrying union, about 20%

are single.

20
Table 4. 4 Distribution of Respondents by occupation

Status Respondents Percentage

Unemployed 44 55

Business 8 10

Civil servant 16 20

Others 12 15

Total 80 100

Sources: field work

From table 4.4 majority of the respondent status are unemployed 55% about 10% are into

business, 20% are civil servant and 15% are other works.

21
 SECTION B: RESEARCH QUESTION

Research question one: What are the effects of female genital mutilation on the sex

drive of the girl child?

Table 4.5 Responses of respondents on the effects of female genital mutilation on the

sex drive of the girl child.

S/N ITEM RESPONSES

YES NO

Frequency Percentage Frequency Percentage

1. Pain and discomfort 64 80% 16 20%

2. Loss of sexual pleasure 60 75% 20 25%

3. Psychological and emotional effects 72 90% 8 10%

4. Fear and aversion towards sexual 76 95% 4 5%

activity

5. Relationship issues 78 97.5% 2 2.5%

Table 4.5 above shows the responses on the effects of female genital mutilation on the

sex drive of the girl child being pain and discomfort, loss of sexual pleasure,

psychological and emotional effects, fear and aversion towards sexual activity and

relationship issues as the effects. With all the respondents responses majorly being yes to

each of the statements.

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 Research question two: What are the roles of the government in prohibiting female

genital mutilation?

Table 4.6 Responses of respondents on the role of the government in prohibiting

female genital mutilation.

S/N ITEM RESPONSES

YES NO

Frequency Percentage Frequency Percentage

1. Legislation and Policy 72 90% 8 10%

2. Awareness and Education 80 100% - -

3. International Cooperation 72 90% 8 10%

4. Healthcare and Support Services 76 95% 4 5%

5. Enforcement and Protection 78 97.5% 2 2.5%

Table 4.6 above shows the responses on all the items 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 as the role

government in prohibiting female genital mutilation, of which the responses show that

the respondents all agree to the roles as Legislation and Policy, Awareness and

Education, International Cooperation, Healthcare and Support Services and Enforcement

and Protection.

23
 Research question three: What are the health Implication of Female Genital

Mutilation?

Table 4.7 Responses of respondents on the health implication of female genital

mutilation.

S/N ITEM RESPONSES

YES NO
Frequency Percentage Frequency Percentage
1. Immediate Complications 68 85% 12 15%
2. Long-Term Health Issues 60 75% 20 25%
3. Psychological and Emotional 72 90% 8 10%
Consequences
4. Sexual Health Complications 76 95% 4 5%
5. Social and Cultural Consequences 72 90% 8 10%

Table 4.7 above shows the responses on the health implication of female genital

mutilation with all of the respondents agreeing to the statements Immediate

Complications, Long-Term Health Issues, Psychological and Emotional Consequences,

Sexual Health Complications, and Social and Cultural Consequences of items 1, 2, 3, 4

and 5 as the health implications of female genital mutilation.

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 Research question four: What are the major Reasons for Female Genital

Mutilation?

Table 4.8 Responses of respondents on the major reasons for female genital

mutilation.

S/N ITEM RESPONSES

YES NO

Frequency Percentage Frequency Percentage

1. Cultural and Social Norms 64 80% 16 20%

2. Gender Inequality 60 75% 20 25%

3. Societal Pressure and Social Status 72 90% 8 10%

4. Misconceptions about Health and 76 95% 4 5%

Hygiene
5. Preservation of Tradition 78 97.5% 2 2.5%

Table 4.8 above shows the responses on the major reasons for female genital mutilation

as cultural and social norms, gender inequality, societal pressure and social status,

misconceptions about health and hygiene and preservation of tradition covering all items

stated as to be the major reasons for female genital mutilation by the respondents.

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 CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.0 INTRODUCTION

This chapter contains the summary of study, discussion of findings, conclusion and

recommendation to relevant authorities and parastatals.

5.1 SUMMARY

This study was carried out to determine the assessment of female genital mutilation in

Unguwa Uku, Kano state. The main objective of the study is on an assessment of female

genital mutilation in Unguwa Uku, Kano state which were To investigate the effect of

female genital mutilation on the sex drive of the girl child, To investigate the role of the

government in prohibiting female genital mutilation, To investigate the health implication

of female genital mutilation and To ascertain the major reason for female genital

mutilation. Literatures were reviewed based on the study at hand from different relevant

scholars and sites for the purpose of the study. A simple sampling technique method was

used to select randomly 80 respondents for the study. The data gotten was analyzed using

tables in frequency and percentage format. Based on the findings of the study

recommendations were also made.

5.2 DISCUSSION OF FINDING

Based on the findings of the study, Most of the respondents are age between 19 – 23

years covered 50.0%, Majority of the respondents attended Primary about 71.4%,

Majority of the respondents 55% are still in married, about 55% of the respondents (a

majority) were unemployed.

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Based on the research findings, research question one (What are the effects of female

genital mutilation on the sex drive of the girl child?), a vast majority of the respondents

said YES to the statements provided as in relation to the effect of female genital

mutilation, while just a very few minority said NO to all statements provided.

Based also on research question two (What are the roles of the government in prohibiting

female genital mutilation?), just very few of the responses went against the roles stated as

a role government play in prohibiting female genital mutilation, while a vast majority of

the respondents said YES to the statements.

Based on research question three (What are the health Implication of Female Genital

Mutilation?), on the statements provided regarding the health implication of female

genital mutilation, majority of the respondents said YES to the statements while a few

said NO.

In regards to research question four (What are the major Reasons for Female Genital

Mutilation?) all the statements/items provided as to be the major reasons for female

genital mutilation were agreed upon by majorly all the respondents in the study area,

while but a few said NO to the statements.

5.3 RECOMMENDATION

Based on the findings of the study, the following recommendations were made:

1. Launch comprehensive educational campaigns at the grassroots level to raise

awareness about the harmful effects of FGM on physical and mental health.

2. Enforce existing laws that criminalize FGM and introduce stricter penalties for

offenders.

27
3. Offer specialized training to healthcare professionals on the physical and

psychological consequences of FGM, as well as appropriate counseling techniques

for affected individuals.

4. Involve traditional and religious leaders in anti-FGM initiatives.

5. Promote the empowerment of women and girls through education, skills training,

and economic opportunities.

6. Engage men in discussions about FGM and its harmful effects. Encourage them to

become advocates against the practice within their families and communities.

7. Conduct comprehensive research and data collection on the prevalence and factors

influencing FGM in different regions of Nigeria.

8. Partner with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international agencies

experienced in addressing FGM.

9. Utilize various media platforms to disseminate messages against FGM. Use TV,

radio, social media, and community theater to reach a wider audience and foster

positive behavioral change.

10. Recognize and celebrate individuals and communities that have abandoned the

practice of FGM.

28
 REFERENCES:

- El-Defrawi MH, Lotfy G, Dandash KF, Refaat AH, Eyada M. Female genital mutilation

and its psychosexual impact. J Sex Marital Ther. 2001;27(5):465-473.

- Okonofua FE, Larsen U, Oronsaye F, et al. The association between female genital

cutting and correlates of sexual and gynecological morbidity in Edo State, Nigeria.

BJOG. 2002;109(10):1089-1096.

World Health Organization (WHO). Female Genital Mutilation Fact Sheet. 2020.

United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting: A Global

Concern. 2016.

Obermeyer, C. M. (1999). The consequences of female circumcision for health and

sexuality: An update on the evidence. Culture, Health & Sexuality, 1(2), 103-121.

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Female Genital Mutilation: A Global

Concern. 2018.

Shell-Duncan, B., & Hernlund, Y. (2000). Female "circumcision" in Africa: Culture,

controversy, and change. Lynne Rienner Publishers.

Abdulcadir, J., Margairaz, C., Boulvain, M., & Irion, O. (2011). Care of women with

female genital mutilation/cutting. Swiss Medical Weekly, 141, w13242.

29
 APPENDIX

Department of Community Health

Aminu Dabo College of Health

Science and Technology, Kano.

No. 9C Civic Center, Kano

Date: ……………………………

ACADEMIC QUESTIONNAIRE

Dear Respondents,

I am a final year student of the above mentioned institution from the department of

Community Health Extension Workers carrying out a research work as a requirement for

the award of Professional Diploma in Community Health, titled “Assessment of female

genital mutilation at Unguwa Uku PHC Hospital, Tarauni Local government area of

Kano state”.

Please kindly assist by ticking the appropriate answers to the questions provided. All

information provided will be used confidentially for the sole purpose of this study.

Thank you

Yours Faithfully,

Hasiya Zakari

ADCOHST/CHD/20/00

30
 SECTION A: BIO DATA

1. Age: ≤ 18 [ ] 19-23 [ ] 24-28 [ ] 29-33 [ ] 34-39 [ ] ≥ 40 [ ]

2. Educational level: a) Primary [ ] b) Secondary [ ] c) Tertiary [ ]

3. Marital status: a) Married [ ] b) Single [ ] c) Divorced [ ]

4. Occupation: a) Unemployed [ ] b) Business [ ] c) Civil servant [ ] d) others [ ]

SECTION B: RESEARCH QUESTION ONE

What are the effects of female genital mutilation on the sex drive of the girl

child?

S/N ITEMS YES NO

1. Pain and discomfort
2. Loss of sexual pleasure
3. Psychological and emotional effects
4. Fear and aversion towards sexual activity
5. Relationship issues

SECTION C: RESEARCH QUESTION TWO

What are the roles of the government in prohibiting female genital mutilation?

S/N ITEMS YES NO

1. Legislation and Policy
2. Awareness and Education
3. International Cooperation
4. Healthcare and Support Services
5. Enforcement and Protection
SECTION D: RESEARCH QUESTION THREE
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 What are the health Implication of Female Genital Mutilation?

S/N ITEMS YES NO

1. Immediate Complications
2. Long-Term Health Issues
3. Psychological and Emotional
Consequences
4. Sexual Health Complications
5. Social and Cultural Consequences

SECTION E: RESEARCH QUESTION FOUR

What are the major Reasons for Female Genital Mutilation?

S/N ITEMS YES NO

1. Cultural and Social Norms
2. Gender Inequality
3. Societal Pressure and Social Status
4. Misconceptions about Health and
Hygiene
5. Preservation of Tradition

Thanks for your contribution.

32