An Emic View of the Role of Circumcision Ceremony on Individuals Personality Development.

A Case of Kipsigis Community of Kericho District

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to uncover the emic understanding of the function of the circumcision ceremony among the Kipsigis of Kericho District, Kenya. The circumcision ceremony has defied the ravages of the modernization process due to the practical utility that society still places on the ceremony. Through elaborate rituals and the symbolic meanings that accompany the ceremony, initiates are expected to show some specific personality traits to occupy their position as full members of society. However, members of the Kipsigis community who opted for 'Christianity' are cynically viewed. Despite the functional 'utilities' of the ceremony, it has been found to pose several negative socio-economic consequences. I conclude that although the Kipsigis still cherish the circumcision ceremony, the same needs to be modified considering the educational, economic, and health risks that it engenders. It is recommended that there is a need for education of the community on the need to modify the conventional 'Christian ceremony' to produce the personality that the community expects of its members.