At the opening ceremony, Mr. Saikou J.K. Trawally, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Technical) at the Ministry, reminded that obstetric fistula remains both a medical and social challenge - reflecting broader issues of maternal health, poverty, and gender inequality.
DPS Trawally noted that every woman living with the condition is a reminder of the urgent need to strengthen healthcare systems, promote safe motherhood, and ensure no woman is left behind in accessing quality maternal care.
To this end, he highlighted the importance of creating awareness, saying many women continue to suffer in silence due to stigma and lack of information.
“By empowering survivors to share their experiences, we amplify their voices, challenge misconceptions, and encourage prevention through timely medical attention and community education.” he said.
Thus, Mr. Trawally encouraged participants to make best use of the opportunity and be ready to learn, share, and support one another.
Also speaking, Aminata Dibassy, Senior Economist at the Ministry of Trade, described the initiative as another testament to ECOWAS’s commitment to promoting social inclusion, health, and the economic empowerment of women and girls across the region.
She added that fistula is not only a medical condition, but also a human rights issue that affects the dignity, livelihood, and well-being of women.
Thus, she pointed out that addressing it means restoring health, hope, confidence, and opportunity.
The empowerment of women, she added, is central to ECOWAS’s regional integration agenda and sustainable development efforts.
In light of this, Mrs. Dibassy expressed gratitude to the Gender Ministry and partners for their collaboration and dedication in making the activity possible.
“Together, we can and will build a future where no woman suffers in silence and where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national and regional development,” she concluded.
Mrs. Fatou Sey, Principal Gender and Empowerment Officer at MoGCSW, reaffirmed her Ministry’s commitment to supporting women living with fistula.
She equally encouraged survivors - especially those who have undergone successful repairs - to serve as advocates for other women still affected by the condition.
Representatives from the ECOWAS National Office, Ministry of Trade, Ministry of Health, UNFPA, and other distinguished guests attended the opening ceremony alongside the courageous participants.
By: Sarjo M. Camara
Communications officer,
MoGCSW
