The dialogue was held at Laminkoto Sensending Lodge in Sami District, Central River Region.
The aim of the dialogue was to clear the misconception surrounding FGM/C and to gather information from the grassroots level regarding the issue of FGM/C.
Madam Sophie Manneh, a member of NYP led the discussion. She took the gathering through a presentation on the effects of FGM/C on women and girls.
Lamin Jawo, a Tostan project supervisor based in Sami District expressed delight in attending such a very important discussion.
He stated that health and human rights are some of their intervention areas. He said FGM/C should not be encouraged because it has a lot of both short and long term negative effects on women and girls.
He highlighted that some of the effects include bleeding, pains and complications among others.
Sorrie Darboe, ward councillor for Banni Ward urged participants to take the dialogue seriously. According to him, FGM/C should be optional.
Ebrima J.L. Ceesay, representative of Supreme Islamic Council in Sami District said FGM/C was not condemned by the holy prophet, Muhammad (S.A.W.).
He said women should be trained on how to carry out type one FGM/C and the ban on FMM/C lifted in the country.
