In a controversial statement, Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, has sparked outrage by asserting that she will not publicly denounce female genital mutilation (FGM) until she has access to “reliable data” that demonstrates its harmful effects. This remark has led to significant criticism from health professionals, survivors, and human rights advocates, who argue that her comments undermine years of activism aimed at eradicating this deeply entrenched practice.
A Controversial Stance
Fatima Maada Bio, who is married to President Julius Maada Bio, has come under scrutiny for her ambiguous position regarding FGM, a practice that has been linked to severe health complications and is widely regarded as a violation of human rights. In an exclusive interview, she clarified that she does not support the practice but insists that concrete evidence of its harms is necessary before she can take a firmer public stance against it.
In a letter dated 10 June, a coalition of over 20 health experts, survivors, and political figures reached out to the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (Oaflad), where Maada Bio currently serves as president. They expressed concern that her statements could be misconstrued as tacit approval of FGM, potentially jeopardising progress made in the fight against this harmful tradition.
Voices of Concern
Among the signatories of the open letter are notable figures such as Amy Smythe, former Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs in Sierra Leone, and Isha Dyfan, a human rights lawyer and UN expert. They cautioned that any perceived endorsement of FGM could reverse hard-won gains in advocacy and conflict with both national and international commitments against the practice.
Ranya Kargbo, a senior UN professional and FGM survivor, articulated her dismay at Maada Bio’s recent public appearances, particularly one where she appeared to support practitioners of FGM. Kargbo stated, “When you are in a leadership position, your words matter. Those comments send a message of support to cutters, which can be detrimental to our fight against FGM.”
The Complex Landscape of FGM in Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone is notorious for having one of the highest prevalence rates of FGM in the world. A national survey revealed a decline in the proportions of women subjected to the procedure, dropping from 90% in 2013 to 83% in 2019. However, alarming statistics still indicate that 71% of those affected underwent the procedure before reaching the age of 15.
The legality of FGM remains a contentious issue; there are no laws in Sierra Leone that criminalise the practice. Traditionally performed as part of a cultural rite of passage, FGM is conducted by women known as sowei, who are members of influential societies. Each year, numerous women and children suffer severe health complications, and tragically, some lose their lives due to the rituals associated with FGM.
In defending her remarks, Maada Bio stated that they were misconstrued and aimed to foster dialogue and support for women who feel disenfranchised. She added, “I am not in favour of any form of circumcision that is forced upon an individual.” Nevertheless, she has not actively campaigned against the practice and has called for more comprehensive data on its consequences.
The Call for Change
The controversy intensified when Maada Bio shared an article on her social media account that critiqued global anti-FGM campaigns. The piece, published in the BMJ Journal of Medical Ethics, suggested that a singular narrative around FGM obscures the diverse experiences and meanings associated with the practice. Her comments extended to notable anti-FGM advocates, whom she labelled as “scammers,” further alienating those working towards the eradication of FGM.
Despite the backlash, Maada Bio maintains that her criticisms are directed not at the survivors of the practice but at those misrepresenting her views. She stated, “My position has been misrepresented, and I want to clarify that I am supportive of efforts to improve the lives of women and girls.”
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court of Justice has already ruled that FGM constitutes a severe form of violence against women, urging Sierra Leone to enact laws prohibiting the practice and protecting victims. However, President Bio has yet to acknowledge this ruling publicly and has enacted the Child Rights Act 2025, which failed to address FGM.
Why it Matters
The ongoing debate surrounding Fatima Maada Bio’s comments highlights the precarious balance between cultural practices and human rights in Sierra Leone. Amidst the outcry from activists and health experts, the First Lady’s reluctance to take a definitive stance against FGM raises critical questions about leadership responsibility and the influence of cultural norms on policy. As Sierra Leone continues to grapple with this issue, the need for clear, unequivocal condemnation of harmful practices is paramount to ensure the safety and well-being of its women and girls.