Mama Sylla is a woman who, aged just 9 years old, became a victim of Female Genital Mutilation - FGM for short.
To her, this was normal. It was such an accepted rite of passage in her community, that she had no reason to question it. It was only years later, during a near death experience while pregnant with her unborn child, that she came face to face with the catastrophic health implications FGM can have on girls and women. Galvanised by her experience, she now campaigns to raise awareness of the issue. In conversation with Rohma Ullah, we hear Mama’s journey.
You can also listen on Apple Podcast, Spotify and Castbox.
Have you been affected by the issues discussed in these episodes?
If children and young people are worried about or have experienced FGM, Childline has advice on FGM, including how to get help and fears about speaking up. Calls to 0800 1111 are free and confidential. Children can also contact Childline online.
We also have a dedicated FGM resource page, and we set up the National FGM Centre to share resources for anyone concerned about the welfare of a child or young person in relation to FGM, kindoki or abuse linked to albinism, or any other child abuse linked to faith or belief.
If anyone is in immediate danger, please call 999.
