By: Staff Writer
In the quiet village of Kpaytuo, Nimba County, an 18-year-old girl has narrowly escaped forced female genital mutilation (FGM) in a chilling case linked to her mother’s past as an anti-FGM activist.
Late-Night Flight: How One Girl Dodged a Secret Ritual
Anna S. Gibson says she fled her home on the night of October 12 after receiving a tip that members of the Sande society were planning to forcibly initiate her, a term often used to mask FGM in rural Liberia.
“I was nearly captured,” Anna said from an undisclosed location. “They wanted to punish my mother through me.”
Mother’s Advocacy Comes at a Price
Anna’s mother, Madam Lurriana T. Johnson, once worked tirelessly with a local organization to protect girls from FGM.
Her activism infuriated influential traditional leaders, known as Zoes, and eventually forced her into hiding outside the country.
Johnson’s efforts, though praised by human rights groups, made her and now her daughter, a target.
Sande Society: Tradition vs. Law
Despite a government ban, the Sande society continues its secretive operations in many rural areas of Liberia.
In these regions, traditional practices often supersede national laws, and those who resist face severe consequences.
FGM in Liberia: A Widespread and Silent Crisis
According to UNICEF, nearly 38% of Liberian women aged 15 to 49 have undergone FGM, with rural counties like Nimba reporting even higher rates.
Survivors often speak of terrifying nighttime abductions, forced cutting, and long-term physical and psychological trauma.
“Her silence is not by choice,” said one women’s rights advocate familiar with Madam Johnson’s story. “When you speak out against FGM here, you risk everthing your safety, your family, even your life.”
Call for Action: Who Will Protect Liberia’s Girls?
Now in hiding, Anna’s case has reignited concerns over the government’s ability and willingness to enforce its own laws and protect vulnerable girls.
Until those behind such practices are held accountable and communities feel safe to reject harmful traditions, activists warn, girls like Anna will remain in grave danger.
