Sierra Leone: The Time to End Female Genital Mutilation is Now!

August 26, 2025

In a landmark ruling, West Africa’s highest court has declared that female genital mutilation (FGM) is a form of torture—and ordered Sierra Leone to ban it. This decision is a victory for survivors and a powerful affirmation of the rights of women and girls.

Although Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has expressed support for the ban, Parliament has yet to act. Now is the moment for courageous leadership to turn this ruling into lasting protection. At AHA Foundation, we stand with the brave activists and survivors in Sierra Leone who are fighting to end this practice once and for all. 

Here in the U.S., we are still fighting for 9 remaining states to enact laws specifically banning FGM and to strengthen our protections. 

Together, we will not stop until every girl is safe from FGM. 

If you would like to support efforts to ban FGM in Sierra Leone, you can learn more and take action through Avaaz, a global nonprofit advocacy network, here.