In each of the regions, they gathered community leaders, National Assembly Members (NAMs), and Councillors. During the discussions, participants shared varied opinions on whether the practice should remain banned or not.
Mariama Marong, a resident of Kiang stated that “this is a culture we inherited. The problems we have now regarding FGM/C existed in the old days. We cannot stop the practice.”
"This discussion is important so that our NAMs will know what their people want regarding the FGM/C issue. My stand is that this is our culture, and we cannot stop it," Hon. Lamin Ceesay, National Assembly Member for Kiang West said.
Kassim Jatta, a member of the Children's National Assembly stated that “the idea behind FGM/C is rooted in parents’ fear that their children will become pregnant before marriage, but FGM/C is not preventing it. The only thing we can do is talk to our children about these issues. Subjecting them to FGM/C is not the solution. Our forefathers' generation is different from ours; we cannot inherit everything they did."
Kachan Ward Councilor, Assuman Chatty suggested that "FGM/C be left as a choice. Those who want to practice it, let them do it, and those who do not, let them be."
Yaffili Dibba, a circumciser also shared her ongoing involvement in the practice.
"Yes, there might be laws against it, but people are still practicing it. I cut over 20 young girls in my house each day and the police know about this. I still have the materials and will continue."
Another resident, Lamin Dampha, viewed FGM/C as a cultural and religious matter.
He said FGM/C is a Western ideology aimed at challenging their religion and culture. “If you want us to believe you, give us proof. Here in Illiasa, we will never stop the practice."
Bintou Fofana criticized the focus on FGM/C by NAMs. "What I think is that NAMs are not doing their job well. We have many pressing issues they should focus on rather than this. This is a practice we have seen our grandmothers doing, and we cannot stop it."
NYP started the community engagements on the 29th of April and it is still ongoing.
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