Relevance of <i>Dipo</i> Womanhood Rites as a Social Control Mechanism Among People of Yilo-Krobo in the Eastern Region of Ghana

Abstract

This study based on Dipo rites was carried out in Yilo-Krobo Municipality in the Eastern region of Ghana among 350 young people aged 15–24, using mixed methods. The findings show that girls who have not done Dipo are less likely than their initiated counterparts to have sex before marriage. The study also shows that although Dipo is an old custom, it still influences sexual behaviours among young people in the study area. The study concludes that Dipo contributes positively to maintaining young people’s healthy sexual behaviour. It is suggested awareness-raising, and sensitization efforts be intensified in light of this.