By: Audrey Raymonda John
The Forum Against Harmful Practices (FAHP) has expressed strong condemnation following a deeply disturbing incident in Kenema District, where approximately 50 young girl more than half of whom are under the age of 18, with the youngest reportedly just 3 years old were subjected to Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C).
The incident occurred in a Bondo bush located in the Gbo-Kakajama Section of Nongowa Chiefdom, Kenema District. FAHP described the mass initiation as a disappointing and alarming development, particularly at a time when the Government of Sierra Leone is considering the introduction of an official “Age of Consent” for such practices.
FAHP emphasized that this act constitutes a severe violation of human rights. It contravenes the Convention on the Rights of the Child and breaches Sierra Leone’s obligations under international frameworks such as the Maputo Protocol, which condemns harmful traditional practices like FGM/C. The practice is also classified as harmful by the World Health Organization (WHO).
An investigation by FAHP revealed that the mass initiation was sponsored by a woman and her family who are reportedly based in the United States. Shockingly, many of the girls who were subjected to the cutting are school-going children. As a result, they missed critical school activities, including end-of-term examinations—an essential component for promotion to the next academic level.
FAHP expressed grave concern over the violation of these children’s bodily autonomy, health, and dignity. The organization highlighted the lasting impact such harmful practices have on girls’ physical and mental well-being, as well as their educational and social development.
In response, FAHP has collaborated with partner organizations and community stakeholders to ensure the immediate safety and support of the affected children.
FAHP is now calling on the Government of Sierra Leone, specifically the Ministries of Gender and Children’s Affairs and Education, to take urgent and decisive action against the perpetrators. The organization also urges the government to ensure justice and the long-term welfare of the victims.
FAHP reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to ending FGM/C in Sierra Leone and stands in solidarity with the girls of Gbo-Kakajama Section, Nongowa Chiefdom, and all children at risk of harmful traditional practices. The organization envisions a future where every child in Sierra Leone can grow up free from violence, discrimination, and bodily harm.