Fatmata Victoria Daboh, a mother of three from Mambolo Chiefdom in Kambia District, is currently on the run seeking refuge as she faces the threat of being initiated into the Sowei Society, a traditional group in Sierra Leone known for its practices involving female initiation ceremonies, including Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
Sowei serve as traditional female leaders and play a vital role in the Bondo Secret Society, which oversees the initiation of young girls. With a family history entrenched in these traditions, Fatmata’s mother, Adama Kamara, was an elder in the Sowei Council. Fatmata was identified as a potential successor to her mother’s position, as cultural practices dictate that a Sowei elder must have a female relative to carry on their role.
In early 2020, Fatmata received alarming news from other elderly women in the community who opposed and condemned the practices of the Sowei’s. They warned her that she was being targeted for initiation. Concerned for her safety, Fatmata limited her visits to Mambolo and eventually decided to leave Kambia District altogether.
Sowei elders have expressed their intention not only to initiate Fatmata but also to enroll her daughters in the Bondo Society. They made it clear that they would pursue her in the Kambia District to fulfill her mother’s pledge.
Tragically, Fatmata’s husband, Ibrahim Kuyateh, was killed by a native gun known as ‘Witchcraft’ by Fatmata’s mother because he opposed the initiation of their daughters into the Bondo society in 2019.
Fatmata Victoria Daboh was a strong Muslim and emphasized her commitment to her Muslim faith, which opposes such Sowei Society practices.
According to a close source, Fatmata Victoria Daboh has raised concerns about the powerful influence of the head of the Sowei Council, who is connected to the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), and the associated risks of harm that individuals may face when opposing societal norms.
In light of ongoing harassment and threats, Pa Amadu, Fatmata’s uncle, took proactive measures to ensure her safety by assisting her and Mabinty Kargbo to flee from Sierra Leone to another country.
However, as she contemplates seeking safety in another country, Fatmata has entrusted her three children to her close friend, Mabinty Kanu, in Rokupr, while she seeks refuge in another country.
