Moyamba, Sierra Leone – 3rd September 2024 – In a groundbreaking effort to combat Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Sierra Leone, the Forum Against Harmful Practices (FAHP), in partnership with Praise Foundation, has officially launched the Alternative Rite of Passage (ARP) in Kayama Chiefdom, Moyamba District. This initiative, also known as the Bloodless Bondo Rite, represents a significant advancement in the ongoing fight to eradicate FGM while preserving the cultural heritage of the Bondo society.
The Alternative Rite of Passage provides a culturally sensitive approach that maintains the essential aspects of the traditional Bondo practices but eliminates the harmful and traumatic practice of genital cutting. Funded by Irish Aid, the ceremony in Moyamba underscores the collective commitment of various stakeholders to protect the health, rights, and dignity of young girls across Sierra Leone.
For generations, the Bondo society has played a central role in the lives of women and girls, serving as a community where they gather to learn important life skills and prepare for adulthood. However, the inclusion of FGM in these rites has led to enduring physical and emotional trauma for many women. The ARP initiative aims to honour the cultural significance of Bondo while removing the practice of FGM.
The event in Moyamba marks the third successful implementation of the ARP in Sierra Leone, following earlier initiatives in Port Loko and Niawa Lega in Bo District. Speaking at the event, Councillor Elizabeth Dambo, an outreach officer for FAHP, highlighted the dual goals of preserving cultural identity and safeguarding the well-being of young girls. "The Alternative Rite of Passage allows us to retain our cultural heritage while ensuring the future health and safety of our daughters," she remarked.
Reverend Jane Lahai of the Council of Churches in Sierra Leone emphasized the historical importance of the event, recalling that FGM's roots in Moyamba trace back to the time of Madam Yoko. She expressed hope that the ARP would herald a new chapter in the community’s approach to traditional practices.
A significant moment during the ceremony was the symbolic transfer of the “disarm” attire from the Head Sowei of Niawa Lega Chiefdom to the Head Sowei of Moyamba, signifying the passing of the ARP tradition. The Head Sowei of Niawa Lega shared her positive experiences with the ARP, including improved school attendance and a reduction in teenage pregnancies in Bo District, encouraging Moyamba to embrace the change.
The launch event received strong support from influential figures, including representatives from Irish Aid, the Moyamba District Chief, religious leaders, and various local community groups. Members of the Teachers Union of Moyamba and other local organisations were present and collectively pledged their support for the ARP, highlighting a unified commitment to the health, empowerment, and future success of girls in the district.
This launch represents a significant step forward in the national campaign against FGM, with hopes that the Alternative Rite of Passage will become a widely accepted and celebrated practice throughout Sierra Leone.
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