By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
In a groundbreaking step towards eradicating harmful cultural practices in Sierra Leone, the Girl Child Network Sierra Leone (GCN-SL), in collaboration with REAS and KDLK, successfully concluded a comprehensive anti-FGM capacity-building training in Makeni, Bombali District.
This transformative program, held in the northern heartland of Sierra Leone, empowered representatives from diverse development sectors to combat Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) within Bondo societies—a traditional institution deeply rooted in the country’s cultural practices. The training addressed critical issues such as Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), menstrual hygiene management, and the devastating consequences of FGM.
Participants included journalists, church workers, women’s associations, healthcare providers, and FGM monitoring team members. The diversity of the attendees underscored the program’s goal of fostering a multi-stakeholder approach to ending FGM practices. These individuals were equipped with tools and strategies to educate their communities, amplify anti-FGM messaging, and advocate for alternative cultural rites of passage.
The training specifically focused on challenging the harmful practice of cutting associated with Bondo society rituals. Facilitators highlighted the health complications, psychological trauma, and human rights violations resulting from FGM. Participants were encouraged to explore culturally respectful yet safer alternatives to these rites, ensuring that traditional values are preserved without endangering girls’ health and dignity.
A key session led by Madam Anita Koroma, the Country Director of GCN-SL, delved into the critical topic of menstrual hygiene management. Using a detailed PowerPoint presentation, she unpacked the challenges faced by women and girls, including myths and stigmas that hinder their progress.
Madam Koroma revealed the harsh realities many girls endure, including using unhygienic materials like “pieces” to manage their menstruation, which often lead to wounds, rashes, and infections. She emphasized the importance of affordable access to reusable and disposable sanitary pads, stating that such access restores dignity and improves health outcomes for girls and women.
Madam Aminata Koroma, Secretary of the FAHP Coalition, explained the coalition’s mission to eradicate traditional harmful practices and gender-based violence in Sierra Leone. Comprising over 20 civil society organizations, FAHP is dedicated to achieving zero tolerance for FGM through education, policy advocacy, and grassroots engagement.
She stressed the traumatic nature of FGM, its violations of fundamental human rights, and FAHP’s role in supporting FGM survivors. Religious and traditional leaders are also trained under FAHP’s programs to foster community-driven solutions.
Ishmael Cole, FAHP’s Program Director, led a session on Gender and Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR), equipping participants with an in-depth understanding of women’s rights. Through his presentation, attendees gained a broader perspective on gender equity and the importance of informed advocacy to combat FGM and other harmful practices.
The training concluded with participants pledging to serve as community champions of change. Inspired by the knowledge gained, they committed to cascading the training’s lessons to their respective communities.
This initiative represents a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s national movement against FGM. GCN-SL, REAS, and KDLK aim to create a ripple effect of change by fostering collective advocacy and community education. The collaboration exemplifies the power of uniting civil society, healthcare professionals, and community influencers to promote alternative cultural practices that protect the health, dignity, and rights of girls and women.
As Sierra Leone continues its journey towards gender equity, programs like this in Makeni reinforce hope for a future where harmful practices like FGM are relegated to history, replaced by traditions that honor both cultural values and human rights.
