When a survivor speaks to her own people, it touches a chord.
#endFGMC#EndViolenceAgainstGirls#16DaysOfActivismAgainstGenderBasedViolence#FAHP
When a survivor speaks to her own people, it touches a chord.
#endFGMC#EndViolenceAgainstGirls#16DaysOfActivismAgainstGenderBasedViolence#FAHP
Day 4!
Consistent sensitization represents a vital strategy in combating FGM by facilitating open dialogue within communities. Through active engagement with key stakeholders—particularly tribal leaders and fostering an environment conducive to sharing alternative perspectives on gender norms and health implications, communities may gradually move away from harmful practices like FGM.
#endFGMC#16DaysOfActivismAgainstGenderBasedViolence#EndViolenceAgainstGirls#fahp
Day 3!
The Bondo culture, a significant aspect of Sierra Leonean heritage, has historically been intertwined with the practice of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C). However, it is increasingly recognized that the cultural significance of Bondo can be preserved and enjoyed without resorting to FGM.
By emphasizing empowerment through alternative practices and recognizing women’s roles within their communities without resorting to harmful rituals, it is possible to enjoy rich cultural heritage devoid of violence against women and girls.
#endFGMC#EndViolenceAgainstGirls#16DaysOfActivismAgainstGenderBasedViolence#fahp
Day 2.
Cultural norms that violate the rights of women and girls have been normalize and thus create an environment conducive for abuse. On these 16 Days of activism, we will continue to amplify our voices against actions that violates our women and girls rights.
#endFGMC #EndViolenceAgainstGirls #16DaysOfActivismAgainstGenderBasedViolence #fahp
Day 1.
As we begin the 16 Days of Activism, it is critical to highlight that violence against women and girls remains a critical global issue and FGM is a severe form of gender-based violence.
#EndFGMC #16DaysofActivism #16DaysOfActivismAgainstGenderBasedViolence #FAHP
Madam Aminata Koroma, the current Executive Secretary for the Forum Against Harmful Practices (FAHP), has been a relentless advocate for women’s and girls’ rights for over 20 years.
Her notable contributions to the movement against harmful traditional practices in Sierra Leone especially against Bondo initiation of girls and women, have earned her a spot on the spotlight for the prestigious 7th Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards 2024.
With vast experience working alongside both national and international organizations, Madam Koroma has committed her career to eradicating practices like Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and advocating for the empowerment of women and girls.
Her dedication reflects a deep-rooted belief that every individual has the right to live free from harm and to thrive in an environment that promotes gender equity.
As the Executive Secretary of the FAHP, Madam Koroma leads a coalition of 26 national organizations working to combat harmful practices, particularly those that negatively impact women and girls. Her leadership plays a critical role in raising awareness about the consequences of these practices, particularly within the Bondo Society, where FGM has longstanding cultural ties. By mobilizing community leaders, engaging grassroots organizations, and initiating advocacy campaigns, Madam Koroma has positioned the FAHP as a key player in the fight against these harmful traditions.
Her efforts illustrate her commitment to transforming societal norms and practices that perpetuate gender inequality.
Madam Koroma’s extensive background in advocacy and activism has equipped her with the skills necessary to address the intricate challenges faced by women and girls in Sierra Leone. Her work has not only involved direct advocacy but also the development of educational programs aimed at empowering women and girls to assert their rights.
By providing resources and training, she ensures that young women and girls have the tools they require to challenge traditional norms and pursue opportunities in education and employment. This holistic approach fosters a generation of empowered individuals who are prepared to dismantle oppressive practices and advocate for equal treatment for all.
Through the FAHP, Madam Koroma has built collaborative partnerships with various stakeholders, including governmental entities, non-governmental organizations, and community leaders. These alliances have been instrumental in fortifying the movement against harmful practices.
By fostering dialogue among different sectors of society, she has facilitated a shared understanding of the adverse effects of FGM and other harmful practices, generating collective action toward the eradication of these traditions.
Her collaborative efforts are particularly significant as they highlight the importance of community engagement in creating sustainable change.
The recognition of Madam Koroma at the 7th Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards 2024 serves not only as an acknowledgment of her hard work but also as a rallying call to action within Sierra Leone as it also underscores the significance of addressing harmful traditional practices and the need for continuous dialogue on gender equity.
By highlighting the contributions of dedicated individuals like Madam Koroma, the awards aim to inspire others to engage in advocacy and activism, creating a wave of change that can ripple throughout communities.
Her recognition brings renewed focus on the FAHP’s mission and the collective fight for a society free from gender-based violence.
Madam Aminata Koroma’s enduring commitment and activism in the fight against harmful practices make her a deserving woman to be honoured at the upcoming Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards. Her leadership within the Forum Against Harmful Practices has solidified her position as a strong pillar of hope for many women and girls who are striving for a better future in Sierra Leone. By championing the cause of gender equity and providing essential support systems, Koroma is not only advocating for significant changes today but also working toward the realization of a society where women and girls can flourish, and be free from the shackles of harmful traditions. Through her continued efforts, she exemplifies the transformative power of dedicated activism in the pursuit of justice and equality.
The Forum Against Harmful Practices (FAHP) has recently submitted a position paper advocating for the review of the Child Rights Act in Sierra Leone Parliament. This initiative is crucial, given the persistent challenges facing children’s rights in the country. Various civil society organizations, including FAHP, play a significant role in promoting and protecting children’s rights amid ongoing issues such as violence against children and harmful traditional practices like female genital mutilation. The call for a review of the Child Rights Act reflects an urgent need to address these systemic issues more effectively.
In light of these challenges, it is essential to adopt a bottom-up approach to strengthen child protection. By advocating for community-driven initiatives, FAHP’s position paper aligns with international treaties signed by the Sierra Leonean Government (MAPUTO PROTOCOL and CEDAW etc.). Such strategies are vital not only for enhancing compliance with existing laws but also for ensuring that children’s voices are heard in policy formulation.
Moreover, addressing harmful practices through legislative reform is critical in combating prevalent issues such as FGM and Child Marriage. The proposed review of the Child Rights Act aims to create more robust frameworks that can adapt to the evolving challenges faced by children today. It underscores the necessity for comprehensive legislation that protects children from exploitation while promoting their well-being and development.