Participatory Intervention in Eliminating Harmful Traditional Practices

Abstract

Concerning female genital mutilation practice in Africa, much of the abolition approach has focused on mass-mediated approaches: heavy reliance on mass campaigns and enlightenment programs in the affected communities. However, little or no attention has been given to the cultural adherents/perpetrators of this practice. Thus, in order to achieve a pragmatic and sustainable outcome regarding this practice, this chapter intends to broaden the theoretical discourse (democratic participant theory), seeking to highlight participatory interventions to put an end to this harmful traditional practice in selected African countries (Nigeria and South Africa). Primarily, it intends to explore the concept of participation and dialogue by incorporating the concerted effort of all stakeholders, particularly that of the cultural adherents/perpetrators of this practice. Thus, in order to achieve a colossal decline in female genital mutilation in Africa, active participation/involvement of cultural adherents is pertinent.