By: Audrey Raymonda John
In a passionate plea to the people of Masimra Chiefdom and surrounding communities, the Executive Director of the Amazonian Initiative Movement (AIM-SL), Madam Rugiatu Neneh Turay, urged for greater investment in the education of girls and stronger partnerships to combat the harmful effects of female genital mutilation (FGM).
Speaking at the commemoration of International Zero Tolerance Day for FGM on February 10, 2025, in Masimra Chiefdom, Port Loko District, Madam Turay emphasised the need for collective action to dismantle the social and gender norms that limit the rights of women and girls.
“Our collective actions must create environments where girls and women can exercise their power and enjoy their full rights to health, education, and safety,” Madam Turay said.
The event, held at Konta Line in Masimra, brought together a diverse group of attendees, including teachers, soweis (traditional initiators), students (both cut and uncut girls), chiefs, MPs, councillors, and religious leaders. Under the theme “Stepping Up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM,” the gathering served as a powerful reminder of the urgency to eradicate FGM and its devastating consequences on education and health. The event was supported by Purposeful and PfefferminGreen.
Madam Turay highlighted the significant educational barriers posed by FGM, noting that the physical and psychological trauma resulting from the procedure often leads to long absences from school, especially in rural communities. The societal pressure to undergo FGM also frequently results in early marriages, further disrupting girls’ education as they are pushed into domestic roles.
“The stigma and exclusion faced by girls who undergo or refuse FGM severely impacts their concentration and academic success,” Turay explained. “The fight against FGM is intrinsically linked to the broader struggle for gender equality and access to education.”
She called for coordinated efforts from teachers, parents, and community leaders to engage in open dialogues on human rights, gender equality, and sexual education to ensure that the needs of girls affected by FGM are met.
While acknowledging the progress made in raising awareness, Madam Turay voiced concern over the lack of national policies and laws specifically addressing FGM. She urged policymakers to take decisive action, stressing that legislative support is critical to reinforce grassroots efforts aimed at ending the practice.
AIM-SL has been at the forefront of training teachers, students, and community members on the health, psychological, and human rights impacts of FGM. Madam Turay emphasised that the risks associated with FGM affect women of all ages and intensify as they grow older.
In a compelling keynote address, Edmond Abu Jr., Director of Native Consortium, praised AIM-SL and Madam Turay for their relentless commitment to ending FGM. Reflecting on his personal journey, Abu admitted, “When Madam Rugiatu Neneh started this campaign, I was one of her critics. But through her dedication and intelligent approach, she convinced me, and today, I stand tall in the fight to end FGM.”
Abu condemned FGM as a violation of human rights and a public health crisis, emphasising that the practice offers no health benefits and leads to severe physical, mental, and sexual health complications.
“FGM is not just a harmful tradition; it is unacceptable and must be eradicated,” Abu stated.
The Paramount Chief of Masimra, Chief Pa Alimamy, also expressed gratitude to AIM-SL for its tireless efforts against FGM and reaffirmed the community’s support for the movement.
Students from various schools pledged to advocate for the end of FGM, calling for increased support to sustain these efforts.
The event concluded with a powerful call for collective action, with all attendees agreeing that eradicating FGM requires a unified approach from activists, policymakers, educators, and international partners. As Madam Turay declared:
“We must continue to support young voices, amplify their messages, and work together to dismantle the barriers FGM imposes on women and girls. Together, we can create a world where every girl is free to learn, thrive, and realize her full potential.”