The grassroots NGO supporting women's rights organisation is also committed to empowering young girls in local communities. The six beneficiary communities include Madina Kanuma, Darsilameh, Bakalarr, Bakindik, Toro Alassan and Sika.
These machines, provided by the United Nations Population Fund Country Programme and Donor Direct Action (Frontline women), seeks to provide sustainable alternative employment opportunities for the practicing women within their region.
Dr. Isatou Touray, executive director of GAMCOTRAP, acknowledged that they recognised the critical role of the ex-circumcisers in the cultural and social fabric of their respective communities.
Thus, she said, empowering those women with alternative livelihoods not only secures their economic independence, but also ensures that they no longer feel the need to revert to practices that harm girls and women.
“We are launching hope, progress, empowerment, and the promise of a future where girls and women can live free from the harmful consequences of FGM.”
Dr. Touray revealed that these milling machines given to the ex-circumcisers was a pathway to their economic sustainability.
“We are reinforcing the abandonment of FGM, safeguarding the next generation, and nurturing a culture of respect and protection for all.”
Lamin Camara, assistant country representative of UNFPA, said the project not only represents an important victory for the rights of women and girls, but it also underscores the role of local communities in leading the change process.
He expressed UNFPA’s stance in contributing towards the development of GAMCOTRAP.
Camara pointed out that with collaboration, commitment, and community engagement, they could build a future where the voices of women would be heard, their rights respected and their opportunities will be limitless.
George Sonko, District Chief of Lower Nuimi, while highlighting the significance of the occasion, reminded that it marks another milestone in ending FGM and empowering ex-circumcisers with alternative livelihoods.
Chief Sonko emphasised the transformative role the milling machines would play by providing ex-circumcisers with sustainable employment opportunities, steering them away from harmful practices.
Alagie K. Saho, who represented the Governor of North Bank Region, also expressed similar sentiments.
He pointed out the importance of girls and women empowerment and extended appreciation to GAMCOTRAP and its partners for their unwavering support.
At the event, ex-circumcisers reaffirmed their commitment and stance to not ever use the knife again, saying they’ve dropped their knives and never would they go back to it.
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