THE ROLE OF COMMUNICATION AND ADVOCACY IN RESOLVING CULTURE-BASED CONFLICT: LESSONS FROM EFFORTS TO COMBAT FGM PRACTICES IN KENYA

Abstract

This study examines the role of communication and advocacy in resolving culture-based conflicts in Kenya, focusing on the harmful practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). While existing studies on conflicts in Kenya have focused on inter-group violence, such as class, political and ethnic conflicts, few studies have examined how cultural practices constitute violence, and few have offered recommendations on how to deal with cultural conflicts and violence. Culture-based conflicts in Kenya, particularly those related to harmful cultural practices like Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), have been a persistent challenge. While communication and advocacy are often cited as essential in conflict resolution, their application in resolving culture-driven violence in Kenya and many African countries remains low. This study aims to contribute to the growing literature and debates on cultural violence by (1) examining cultural-based violence in Kenya, (2) assessing how communication and advocacy techniques and strategies can be used in FGM advocacy campaigns in Kenya, (3) evaluating the potential impact of these strategies especially in changing attitudes and behaviors towards FGM. The study will conclude with a set of recommendations that are aimed at reducing cultural violence in Kenya through the use of communication and advocacy.