Title: PERCEPTIONS OF PREGNANCY AND CHILDBIRTH IN THE BAFUT FONDOM OF THE BAMENDA GRASSFIELDS OF CAMEROON
Authors: Mforsoh Julius Suh Junior and Exodus Tikere Moffor
Abstract:

Pregnancy and childbirth are universal phenomenon but different cultures perceive it different and such perceptions are handed down from one generation to the next. Bafut people like all Africans have perceptions about childlessness, pregnancy and childbirth. The questions this article raises is how do the people of Bafut perceive childlessness, pregnancy and childbirth? The objective therefore is to find out the perceptions of the Bafut people about childlessness, pregnancy and childbirth. Data of the article is purely qualitative, collected using in-depth interviews and life history. The data was analysed during data collection and soon after fieldwork using content analysis. It was interpreted using the theory of social representation of Moscovici (1961). Findings reveal that childlessness is considered a curse and a childless man or woman does not earn the respect of friends, family members and the society. Pregnancy and childbirth are blessings and gifts from the ancestors and gods, and reincarnation of deceased relatives. Pregnancy and childbirth are marital phenomenon, a sign of fertility, and a fulfilment and pride to the family and society.

Keywords: perceptions, pregnancy, childbirth, Bafut Fondom, Bamenda Grassfields, Cameroon
DOI: https://doi.org/10.61646/IJCRAS.vol.4.issue6.134
Date of Publication: 18-11-2025
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Published Volume and Issue: Volume 4, Issue 6 November-December 2025