SUDAN: How a Group of Women Prevented Child Marriages and Circumcisions

Through daily coffee gatherings, Amina inspired local women to challenge harmful customs, helping protect girls from child marriage and circumcision.

My happiness is indescribable knowing that these girls survived and women are capable of making change.

Before the war in Sudan, I worked with women and children, providing services to survivors of violence, leading advocacy campaigns, raising public awareness, and fostering an environment that protects human rights. 

The war in Sudan broke out suddenly on April 15, 2023, in the capital, Khartoum, between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces, followed by some states. Because of this war, millions of Sudanese have been displaced and sought refuge inside and outside the country, and the education and health systems have come to a halt. The death toll is countless, with many human rights violations and sexual violence against women. Sudan is currently going through the worst and ugliest stages of its history of chaos, violence, displacement, chaos, and the imminent threat of famine.

When the war reached Khartoum, my family and I were displaced to a city in the south, far from the armed conflict. Life was different from what I was used to. People were simple and kind, treating us with great hospitality and generosity. But, I was shocked by certain customs. The community frequently held weddings, and I was surprised to see child brides. Then, what I thought were typical celebrations in Sudanese homes often turned out to be girls’ circumcisions. My heart ached each time, especially since the practice is deeply rooted in tradition and religion, leaving no room for discussion — especially from an outsider like me. Meanwhile, because the war raged in Khartoum and other states, schools and universities remained closed, with girls on a perpetual break.

I noticed that the local women gathered daily at noon in one of their homes to drink coffee with incense, nuts, sweets, and other traditional rituals. It seemed like a good opportunity to reach out. I selected a few women who seemed open to listening and began discussing the issue. The path was thorny, full of excuses and complex arguments, but with time and perseverance, I convinced five influential women to join me. To ensure they had clear, complete, and scientific information, I held a training workshop for several days in one of the houses. They were captivated by the PowerPoint presentations and the stories of the girls we had helped.

Through these coffee sessions, the women became a center of consciousness for girls' rights. They also communicated with local initiatives and associations to celebrate the Day of the Girl Child last year. After I left the city, I stayed in touch with them. Thanks to their efforts, they stopped five child marriages and convinced the families to reconsider the arrangements. Additionally, the women prevented 11 circumcisions and continued to advocate for the girls. My joy is indescribable, knowing that these girls were saved and women are creating real change.

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