Seventeen-year-old Mariatu Munu’s life has become a nightmare after escaping forced initiation into the Bondo Society, a powerful all-female secret society in Sierra Leone synonymous with Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
Mariatu was at home when a relative of her aunt arrived, asking her to accompany them to an unknown location. Suspecting foul play, Mariatu fled and reported the incident to the police. However, authorities claimed their hands were tied due to the organization’s entrenched influence in Sierra Leone.
To make matters worse, Mariatu has suffered physical abuse at the hands of her aunt. Her life remains precarious, marked by fear and uncertainty. Her parents and community members continue searching for her, intent on forcing her into the Bondo Society.
Mariatu’s story highlights the challenges anti-FGM campaigners face in Sierra Leone. The secret societies wielding significant cultural and political power perpetuate FGM as an initiation rite. Traditional practitioners of female genital mutilation continue to establish deep roots in Sierra Leonean culture and politics, creating a culture of fear among young women and posing a major obstacle to opponents of the custom.
As Mariatu’s whereabouts remain unknown, concerns for her safety grow. International attention and support are crucial to protect Mariatu and countless others from FGM’s harmful grip. The incident underscores the need for strengthened efforts to eradicate FGM and support victims like Mariatu, who dare to resist this harmful tradition.