A group of elders from Sabote, Bukusu and Batura communities in Toyogoma District were briefed on the preparations for this year's circumcision ceremony.
These communities, known for their traditional rites of passage, acknowledge the prevalence of gender-based violence surrounding their rituals.
Circumcision rituals for Batura and Bukusu communities are performed in August, while circumcision for Sabao communities is performed in December of even-numbered years.
These educational sessions are facilitated by the Kenya-Finland Bilateral GBV Program in partnership with Kenya Red Cross Bungoma and Bungoma County Government to reduce and prevent the incidence of GBV within these communities.
According to the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS) report, Bungoma County had the highest incidence of GBV cases, accounting for 62% of the reported cases.
The KDHS report also highlights that 34 percent of Kenyan women experience physical violence after the age of 15, compared to 27 percent of men.
Bukusu Council of Elders President Richard Warkano praised the collaborative efforts of the Kenya-Finland Bilateral Program, the Kenya Red Cross, the Bungoma Government and the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs to end GBV.
These organizations organize forums to address teen pregnancy and GBV prevention in their communities.
Warcano stressed that young girls in these communities are vulnerable to pregnancy risks if they are not sensitized early.
He warned against participating in such rituals as they carry the threat of teenage pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS.
Mr Warcano condemned the content of traditional circumcision songs, suggesting that they often convey harmful messages to young people and contribute to GBV.
He said that during traditional ceremonies, young people engage in risky behavior that has long-term consequences.
“We are aiming for a different approach this year, which is why we have launched Early Intervention. Young girls are not attending these ceremonies because of the risks of teenage pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS. We urge parents to refrain from participating,” Warcano said.
Ndiwa Kemosit, chairperson of the Supreme Council of Elders of Mount Elgon (Bungoma District) and Trans-Nzoia District, said that in Sabaot communities, girls also undergo female genital mutilation in parallel to male circumcision. Ta.
He highlighted the negative effects faced by women undergoing FGM, including childbirth complications and fistulas.
Through Kenya and Finland's bilateral GBV program, Sabaot communities have been sensitized to the negative effects of FGM and elders advocate against the practice.
Kemosit said events like this require positive messaging and education.
“Once upon a time, our songs served to uplift, praise and convey valuable lessons. Now, the ritual of circumcision has become a site of illegal activity,” he said.
Batura Council of Elders President Godfrey Shikuku stressed the need for cultural adaptation to effectively combat GBV.
