Kenya

Prevalence and the law

It is estimated that 27% of women and girls have been affected by female genital mutilation or female circumcision in Kenya, even though the government banned FGM in 2001 and the penalty is prison and a fine.

Type of FGM

Types 1 and 2 female genital mutilation or female circumcision are commonly known in Kenya. Type 3, when the genitalia is sewn closed, is also known.

Age

The average age when girls experience female genital mutilation or female circumcision is between 9 and 16 years old.

Decline in practice

Female genital mutilation or female circumcision is less common among adolescent girls (15%) than middle aged women (49%). This means the practice is decreasing. It has almost vanished in Meru and Kikuyu tribes.

Women's views

It is estimated that 85% of women and girls think it should end.