Production of illustration signage to sensitize the sabiny community on the dangers of female genital mutilation in kapchorwa district

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to produce illustration signage to sensitize the Sabiny community on the dangers of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Kapchorwa District. The objectives of the research study were to establish the existing gaps in illustration signage in sensitizing the dangers of FGM and to design and produce illustration signage to sensitize the Sabiny community on the dangers of FGM in Kaptanya sub-county, Kapchorwa District. The qualitative study used Peirce's Theory of Signs. A Case study design was employed. A purposive sampling technique was used, where 19 respondents were purposely selected. The researcher collected data from interviews, focus group discussions, observation, photography, and studio experimentation. The findings revealed that the existing signage mainly displayed in urban areas is presented in a language that cannot be easily understood in that the kind of health danger associated with the practice, for example, pain and excessive bleeding, are not explicitly mentioned. Some forms of communication used were mainly on t-shirts worn by those in the urban areas, yet the critical issue is in the rural areas. Several key parties in the community are involved in joint efforts to bring about positive change in eliminating the traditional practice. Recommendations are that Sabiny girls and women be equipped with knowledge and skills that will empower them to be mindful of the health risks of the practice of FGM and engage in advocacy work aimed at curtailing and eventually eliminating the practice. Policymakers, law enforcement bodies, religious and cultural leaders, and NGOs should work tirelessly to end the practice of FGM. There is a need for scholars and visual artists to continue engaging in research and related activities on FGM in all parts of Uganda, where the practice is prevalent to support efforts made by other stakeholders. In conclusion, the world today keeps on evolving. Certain cultural practices cherished by some communities, such as FGM, are now considered harmful. FGM continues to inflict adverse health dangers on the Sabiny girls and women. Therefore, there is a need for the government to link up with its counterpart in Kenya to address the problem of Ugandan citizens who cross into Kenya to be circumcised. Rural areas have the highest FGM cases; the signage that points out dangers such as excessive bleeding and pain is hardly seen. Targeting rural communities with illustration signage is necessary for sensitization purposes.