By Sallieu S. Kanu
Makeni, Bombali District – Relatives of Kadiatu Braima Janneh have raised an urgent alarm over threats from elders of the Sowei society, who insist on her forced initiation into the Bondo Secret Society to replace her late mother.
Family members, speaking on anonymity, told Premier News that Kadiatu has resisted initiation, citing her religious beliefs and personal values. They fear that her continued defiance could lead to her death or psychological breakdown. One relative recalled that another family member recently died after being coerced into Sowei rituals, underscoring the grave risks associated with resistance.
The Soweis are traditional women leaders within the Bondo Society, historically responsible for initiating girls through Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Though revered locally, their authority has increasingly come under scrutiny as global and regional movements push for the eradication of FGM.
Community elder Pa Alimamy Kamara confirmed that forceful initiations have led to multiple unreported deaths. He accused law enforcement of turning a blind eye, describing the practice as a “no-go area” due to its ritual and cultural significance. “Many women are in hiding for fear of being initiated,” he said, adding that some die while in hiding.
Police acknowledged receiving reports of threats but admitted that investigations are complex, taking into consideration the influence of Sowei elders. Some relatives of Kadiatu expressed disappointment at the police’s inability to protect women from such practices.
Broader Context
FGM remains highly prevalent in Sierra Leone, historically affecting nearly 90% of women. While rates among younger girls have declined, more than 60% of those aged 15–19 are still subjected to the practice. Health experts warn of severe consequences, including infertility, infections, and high maternal mortality.
Legally, Sierra Leone has yet to fully criminalize FGM. Although initiation-related FGM was outlawed in 2019, enforcement remains weak. In July 2025, the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice ruled that Sierra Leone’s failure to criminalize FGM violated international obligations, equating the practice to torture. The court ordered the government to legislate against FGM, prosecute perpetrators, and compensate survivors.
Human rights advocates argue that cases like Kadiatu’s highlight the urgent need for international protection mechanisms. The threat of forced initiation, coupled with the lack of effective state protection, places women at risk of persecution. Under international refugee law, survivors and those resisting FGM may qualify for asylum on grounds of gender-based violence and religious or cultural persecution.
For Kadiatu and many others, the choice is stark: submit to initiation against their will or flee their communities in search of safety.