First Lady’s Office Distances Itself from Forced FGM

The Office of the First Lady has clarified its position on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and Bondo initiation, stating that it is not an anti-FGM institution and does not support forceful or underage practices.

Speaking on Truth Media, the Spokesperson of the Office of the First Lady, Wusu Dadida Jalloh, said the First Lady’s position distinguishes between cultural practices and any form of coercion or harm involving minors.

He explained that the Office continues to engage with grassroots women and cultural groups across Sierra Leone, particularly within traditional spaces where the Bondo society remains active.

“The Office of the First Lady is not an anti-FGM institution… It also has nothing to do with forceful FGM,” he stated.

Jalloh clarified that the First Lady’s engagements are centered on cultural appreciation and social cohesion, while firmly rejecting any form of forced initiation or practices involving underage girls.

He stressed that the Office is not aligned with anti-FGM activism, noting that its role is focused on national unity and engagement with diverse cultural groups.

“The First Lady is not against the initiation in the society, but it is the forceful FGM taking underage girls that is the concern,” he explained.

He further addressed recent concerns regarding an event in Kenema, insisting that it should not be interpreted as endorsement of forced FGM and stating that no minors were involved.

“What happened in Kenema recently wasn’t the First Lady promoting the forceful aspect of FGM. There was no child below 18 in that gathering,” he said.

Jalloh emphasized that the First Lady has a responsibility to engage with different groups across the country as part of her broader mandate to promote social cohesion.

“The First Lady has a moral obligation to attend events organised by citizens to promote social cohesion,” he noted.

He concluded that the ongoing national conversation should focus on protecting girls from forced or underage initiation, while also acknowledging the cultural significance of Bondo within Sierra Leonean society.

The clarification comes amid continuing public debate around FGM, women’s rights, cultural practices, and advocacy positions in Sierra Leone.