05/03/2026
WISE-SL Engages Community Stakeholders in Dialogue to End FGM in Makeni, Bombali District.
On Thursday, 5th March 2026, the Womenβs Initiative for Self-Empowerment Sierra Leone (WISE-SL) convened a community dialogue session with key stakeholders to discuss practical strategies for ending Female Ge***al Mutilation (FGM). The event was held at the SLTU Hall in Makeni, Bombali District.
The dialogue brought together community leaders, womenβs groups, Soweis, youth representatives, civil society actors, Religious leaders, Pupils, Focal teachers, and other influential stakeholders to openly discuss the harmful effects of FGM and explore collective solutions for protecting women and girls. Participants shared experiences, cultural perspectives, and community-based approaches aimed at accelerating efforts to eliminate the practice.
During the session, WISE-SL emphasized the importance of community ownership in the fight against FGM. Discussions focused on strengthening awareness, promoting girlsβ rights, engaging traditional leaders, and encouraging alternative livelihoods for practitioners of FGM.
The dialogue also highlighted the critical role of education, advocacy, and collaboration between communities and institutions in addressing harmful traditional practices. Stakeholders expressed commitment to working together to protect the health, dignity, and rights of women and girls.
The initiative was made possible through the generous support of Irish Aid, whose partnership continues to strengthen grassroots efforts aimed at promoting gender equality and safeguarding the wellbeing of women and girls in Sierra Leone.
Through engagements like this, WISE-SL continues to foster meaningful conversations and community-driven actions that contribute to the national and global movement to end FGM. πβπΎπ©πΎβπ€βπ©πΏ