Patterns of Female Genital Cutting in Sierra Leone: A Preliminary Study (2008)
This study is a Descriptive research regarding All FGM/C with the following characteristics:
Author(s): Ellen Gruenbaum
FGM/C Type(s): All
Health area of focus: None.
Objective: The study intended to the assess FGC practices in Sierra Leone and the potential for change using qualitative data on the following,for the purpose of crafting recommendations for strategies for abandonment
Study Population: Not stated
Findings: the study found out that FGC is a long-term tradition of all of the ethnic groups of Sierra Leone except for those Krio who are Christians (there are both Muslims and Christians among the Krios). Initiation includes both secret rituals and public celebrations. It continues with great vitality,although some aspects are in the process of change. The movement against the practices is not well developed,but in 2008 it is beginning to achieve public attention. From our interviews the reluctance of government entities at all levels to take on this issue is due to the widespread societal opposition to change and the perceived political sensitivity of the issue of initiation.
Geographical coverage
Region(s):Western Africa
Country(ies):Sierra Leone