Browsing by Author "Dora, Tihitina Telemos"

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    The role of the church in ending female genital mutilation/cutting in order to promote the flourishing of women : a case study of the Wolaita Kale Heywet Church, Southern Ethiopia
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2018-03) Dora, Tihitina Telemos; Bowers-Du Toit, Nadine; Le Roux, Elisabet; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Practical Theology and Missiology.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) is the most harmful traditional practice (HTP) when it comes to affecting the flourishing of women in Wolaita, Southern Ethiopia. This study is motivated by the need to end FGM/C in Wolaita, where it has higher rates when compared to other parts of the country. The study aims to interrogate what role the Wolaita Kale Heywet Church (WKHC) plays - or can play - in ending FGM/C and promote the flourishing of women in Wolaita and beyond. The study is positioned within the field of Theology and Development with a focus on the intersection between gender, health and theology. It discusses FGM/C, the use of its terminology, the nature of the practice from a public health perspective, the consequences of FGM/C for health, how FGM/C is perceived in Africa, the prevalence of FGM/C in Ethiopia, and the governmental measures for its eradication. The findings indicate that FGM/C constitutes all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genital or cause damage to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It was further noted that the practice causes severe consequences for health with physical complications and psychological problems. The study also found that health workers are involved in performing FGM/C, although the practice is mainly carried out by traditional practitioners. Motivations for the practice are complex and interrelated, perpetuated by gender inequality and used as a means to control women’s sexuality in patriarchal societies such as those found in Southern Ethiopia. Based on the findings, the study explores, the notion of flourishing as a theological lens and valuable theory in the struggle against FGM/C and argues for greater engagement with African Feminist theology as embodied theology at the intersection of gender, development and theology. The study concludes with recommendations that would help the church to effectively eradicate this HTP in concerned areas.