Sierra Leone FGM Information
Prevalence of FGM: 89.6% (Women 15-49) 74.3% (Girls 15-18) (MICS, 2013)
Most common types: Type 1 & 2
Common ages practiced: 0-15 years + (Medium Age of FGM: 14 Years)
Regional information: FGM is prevalent throughout the country
Practicing ethnic groups: All
Terminology: ‘Sunna’ (Soussou, Religious tradition/obligation (for Muslims), ‘Bondo’ ‘Sonde’ (Temenee/Mandingo/Limba/Mendee, Integral part of an initiation rite into adulthood (for non-Muslims)), ‘Halalays’ (Mandinka, Sanctioned – implies purity)
FGM Law in Sierra Leone: No specific legislation
(All information has been sourced from UNICEF, 28 to Many and The Orchid Project)