Somali Women's Perspectives on Female Genital Mutilation and Efforts Towards Abandonment

Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) remains a significant issue in Somalia, where the practice is deeply ingrained in cultural and societal norms. A recent study published in PLOS Global Public Health by researcher Zamzam I. Ali from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and the Mayo Clinic, alongside colleagues, sheds light on Somali women's views regarding FGM/C and the evolving attitudes towards its discontinuation.

In this research, 20 adult Somali women, aged 18 to 80, representing diverse backgrounds in education, marital status, and socioeconomic level, were interviewed in 2022. The participants demonstrated a broad awareness of FGM/C, often referring to it as a common milestone for girls. They distinguished between two types: "gudniinka fircooniga" (commonly known as "pharaonic circumcision" or infibulation, which involves narrowing the vaginal opening surgically) and "gudniinka sunnah" (considered religiously sanctioned or "good" circumcision), with descriptions ranging from minor pricks to complete removal of external genitalia.

Cultural and religious beliefs heavily influence perceptions of FGM/C. Many participants linked the practice to Somali traditions, politics, and societal expectations. Some expressed the view that not undergoing FGM/C could lead to social stigma or accusations of promiscuity, and there was a strong sense of social coercion, where girls and women felt pressured to conform to community norms to avoid discrimination.

Despite this, there was a notable shift in attitudes, especially among more educated women. Many supported abandoning "pharaonic" FGM/C due to its severe health risks—psychological, reproductive, urinary, and sexual complications—and human rights concerns. Participants also highlighted the growing influence of education in changing community perceptions, noting that more Somali communities are gradually moving away from the practice.

However, support for less severe forms, like "gudniinka sunnah," persisted among non-educated and moderately educated women, often justified as harmless or culturally important. University-educated women generally held a firm stance against all forms of FGM/C, emphasizing the importance of bodily integrity and religious teachings promoting wholeness.

The researchers emphasized that education alone might be insufficient for meaningful change and stressed the importance of active community engagement. Changing social norms requires involving religious leaders, elders, and other influential figures to foster open discussions and challenge traditional beliefs.

Lead author Zamzam Ali shared her personal reflections, stating that understanding the reasons behind the persistence of FGM/C was both impactful and complex. She noted that women are not only victims but also key promoters of the practice, which underscores the necessity of involving women in efforts to eliminate FGM/C.

Ali advocates for interventions that start with understanding local perceptions and ensuring women’s voices are central to the conversation. She hopes this research sparks more honest dialogues within Somali communities, ultimately leading to the eradication of FGM/C.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-somali-women-perspectives-female-genital.html