Anti-FGM Advocacy Gains Momentum as “Born Perfect” Campaign Reaches Totota

February 10, 2026

By Lazota Bility

Totota, Bong County: Anti-Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) advocacy has gained renewed momentum in Totota, Bong County, following the launch of a one-day Born Perfect, Stay Perfect bus tour aimed at raising awareness and mobilizing communities to end harmful traditional practices in Liberia.

The campaign attracted widespread public attention as women gathered to showcase their talents through traditional songs and dances, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere. As they performed, participants chanted, “Let’s fight to end FGM join the bus,” reinforcing the call for collective action and community involvement. The awareness tour commenced in Totota, Bong County, and proceeded through Palala in Gbarma District, Gbarpolu County, before concluding in the Lofa Bridge community in Cape Mount County.

Throughout the journey, women and girls were encouraged to “join the bus” and embrace the message of remaining perfect as they were born, free from harmful practices.

Providing an overview of the campaign, Campaign Head Aisha Kamara emphasized that the initiative is designed to affirm the worth and dignity of women and girls across Liberia. “Let us remain perfect just the way we were born. We do not need any harmful changes to our bodies,” Kamara stated.

She noted that the Born Perfect campaign seeks to transform the future of Liberian women and girls by delivering critical educational messages that empower them to make informed decisions about their health and rights.

Also speaking at the event, Madam Marian G. Deah highlighted that the awareness drive aligns with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s direct mandate to protect women and girls, particularly following the submission of a draft bill to the Legislature.

 “This campaign intends to put a stop to harmful practices. Recently, we were at the Capitol Building protesting against these acts, and we will not stop speaking out until our traditional leaders hear our cries,” she said.

The campaign also featured personal testimonies. Obey Konah, a high school dropout from Palala District, Bong County, shared how the awareness session changed her mind set and restored her confidence to return to school.

“This awareness is truly an eye-opener for me. I dropped out of school due to peer pressure, but from today, I am determined to return to school and become a better person in society,” she said with a smile. In a remark, European Union Ambassador Nona Depre emphasized that Female Genital Mutilation is a violation of human rights and continues to negatively impact the wellbeing of women and girls.

She noted that Liberia remains among countries where the practice is still prevalent. “FGM is a human rights violation, and Liberia is among the countries where the practice remains active,” she stated. Ambassador Depre also commended President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for declaring zero tolerance for violence against women and girls and for submitting a draft bill to the Legislature aimed at ending harmful practices.

 Meanwhile, UN Women Program Specialist Racheal Boma lauded the campaigners for their innovative approach to advocacy. “I bring greetings from our representatives and staff. Today, we join this tour to reaffirm zero tolerance for FGM.

“This is not just the launch of a bus it is a moment of hope and solidarity, and I am proud to be part of this initiative,” she said. Additionally, Assistant Minister of Internal Affairs William T. Jallah reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote the rights and wellbeing of women and girls.

 “I am happy to be here today and to be on this bus. The government remains committed to supporting every positive effort that uplifts women and girls in our country.

Let’s join the bus I am on board,” he added. The Born Perfect, Stay Perfect campaign brought together ordinary citizens, traditional leaders, government officials, and key stakeholders from diverse religious backgrounds.

The event provided a platform for dialogue on the harmful effects of FGM while promoting the protection of the rights, health, and dignity of women and girls. Organizers described the bus tour as part of broader national efforts to eliminate harmful traditional practices and strengthen community commitment toward ending FGM across Liberia.

The National Campaigners Against Harmful Traditional Practices is a coalition of local and international organizations, including Medical Liberia and Community Health Initiatives (CHI), with support from UN Women, the Irish Embassy, the Ministry of Gender, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and the Ministry of Justice.