Sierra Leone Banned One Harmful Practice—But Left Another Legal

Sierra Leone made child marriage illegal in July 2024. Yet a different harmful practice—female genital mutilation (FGM), affecting 83% of women and girls aged 15–49—remains legal. The two practices happen together in certain community ceremonies, so the marriage ban doesn't stop the damage. Activists want FGM banned too, but the First Lady says there isn't enough proof of harm.