AYV News, November 20, 2017
A family in the Western Area Rural District is speaking out about a terrifying experience that left their four-year-old daughter shaken.
According to the mother – Mary David, their child was nearly taken by a local “bondo” society leader, Ya Kaday, who allegedly attempted to subject her to female genital mutilation (FGM).
Elizabeth Kamara, an eye witness, disclosed to this medium that the incident occurred when the child was dropped off at the designated public play and waiting area after school.
She further explained that Ya Kaday, a respected community leader and head of “bondo secret society”, approached the child and began guiding her away from the area, stating that she was taking the child “to make her a complete woman.”
Fortunately, neighbours who knew the family intervened and alerted the mother – Mary and other family members about the situation. This prompt intervention enable them to recover the minor from what many decsribed as harmful traditional practice.
AYV contacted the father, Ifeolu David, who is currently studying in the United States on this situation.
“This experience has left a lasting emotional impact on our household, especially our four year child,” said Ifeolu David.
He went on to say that they are sharing this story as parents to raise awareness about the dangers of FGM and the importance of protecting girls against this harmful practice.
Mary David has confirmed that the child is still traumatised and she couldn’t go to school for the past week after that ugly experience.
She is therefore urging the community to be vigilant and protect their children from such practices.
The local police were involved. Detective Sgt. Samuel Kargbo of Central Police Division said they are currently investigating the matter, and they would inform the parents as well as members of the public on the outcome of their investigation
Community members acknowledged that this was not an isolated incident – as many girls have been affected by this forceful initiation over the years.
A community member who remains anonymous confirmed that a 12 year old girl nearly died in 2015 as a result of excessive bleeding after FGM.
This harmful practice remains a significant concern in Sierra Leone, with many young girls facing the risk of undergoing the procedure as part of traditional rites. This is according to Fatmata Koroma, a human rights activist.
The family hopes that their story will serve as a warning and encourage others to speak out against FGM.
By sharing their experience, they aim to protect other children from undergoing similar trauma.
The million dollar question is, can this call heeded to when there is very little or no political will to end FGM in Sierra Leone.
