TEXT
To 00:21 No text
0:58 – 1:08
Title: The Right to be Feminine
1:22 – 1:29
Subtitle
Female Genital Mutilation in Africa
1:32
Nearly ten years ago, Koura Tenne’s grandmother woke her up early in the morning. She had a premonition what was about to happen. Several women held her down. Legs spread and pinned to the ground like a wounded animal. She knew she was changing from a girl to a woman and becoming a member of the community.
2.03
Like Koura in the West African country of Togo, over 130 million girls worldwide have undergone circumcision of their clitoris. In the West, it’s seen as a bloody and useless ritual. But in African tradition it’s seen as a pure and desirable.
2:50
Original sound
Koura Tenne
Circumcised
I screamed when the circumciser cut away the clitoris. But after that, I didn’t any more. It wasn’t so terrible. My son was also born here. I had to go into the hospital where I had an injection. The birth wasn’t difficult. And, if I have a girl, then I’ll let her be cut too.
3:27
Surprising words. According to estimates by the World Health Organisation, 6’000 girls a day are victims of female genital mutilation.
3:52
The parents of Koura slaughtered a hen as part of the clitoris circumcision ceremony. Today, a hen is sacrificed for them. It’s been almost 10 years since we first came to this small village in the north of Togo. Ten years on, we’ve come to see if there’s any resistance to this painful practice.
4:30
Her six-year old son Tao is proud of the cap his father gave him. He’s a truck driver and often away from home. Mother and son live with the grandmother. All the children and neighbours profit from the cooking.
5:00
Koura has difficulty understanding our questions. Describing what she feels when she has sex.
5:11
Original sound
Koura Tenne
Circumcised
We sleep together, but I don’t feel much
5:25
Question: What do you feel? Are you excited, does it hurt?
5:29
Original sound
Koura
No, it doesn’t hurt.
5:31
Question: What do you feel? Do you have an orgasm?
5:36
Original sound
Koura
No. I don’t know about that.
5:40
Like most of her fellow sufferers, Koura is a Muslim. Female genital circumcision is practiced in 28 African countries and also in some countries in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. For men in these countries an uncut woman is considered unclean and unmarriageable. They don’t want anyone ‘unclean’ – as women with intact clitorises are called. The men are convinced a circumcision gives them more control. What they mean is the circumcising ensures the morals and loyalty of their wives.
6:19
Abatani Assoumanou circumcised Koura ten years ago. People here believe she was chosen by the ancestors to cut away the clitorises of young girls – even though the practice is now illegal in Togo.
6:36
Original sound
Abatami Assoumanou
Circumciser
Now I have to work in the fields. The money is not enough.
At 6:43
When I cut, I do it in secret. It’s our tradition. If we don’t do it there are terrible consequences to reckon with.
7:00
Circumcision often leads to severe complications at birth. Frequently, the closed up tissue is torn. If there’s no help the perineum can tear or the child can be stillborn. Up to 50 per cent of childbirth deaths are directly related to circumcision.
7:27 in off
7:32 in On
Original sound
Akim Banabesse
Midwife and women’s rights activist
When I work as a midwife I often have to take the scissors and cut the vulva of the woman on both sides to make it bigger. Then I help with the birth of the child. But you have to know this: Once they are cut they can get an infection or suffer from a haemorrhage. The child suffers during the birth. Sometimes I have to resuscitate the baby. Fortunately, that happens in the hospital. But in the countryside the danger of infection is far greater.
8:07
Akim Banabesse should know. The retired midwife has run an awareness raising campaign against female circumcision for over a decade. She was president of the Inter-African Committee for Traditional Practices that have adverse effects on women and children. Through her work she’s visited many circumcisers and traditional healers in the villages. She works closely with women, sometimes against her own conscience, as she knows the cutting is going on behind her back.
8:49
Here she’s visiting a traditional midwife, which thanks to her help at least has rubber gloves and metal trays to help with the birth.
9:18
Original sound
Meminetou Tairou
Traditional midwife
With almost every birth of a circumcised woman I have problems – even serious ones that can lead to death. Apart from that, the circumcisers still use the same razor blade. They don’t change it. So the HIV virus can spread.
9:36
Original sound
Zenabou, 18 years
My grandmother wanted me to be circumcised. I’ve heard of possible problems you can have with birth. Now, I’m worried about it.
9:54
She’s right. In rural areas there’s often a huge distance to get to a hospital. Meminetou has her own medicines. In this pot she’s simmering a liquid that stops bleeding.
10:20
Typical long-term damages of clitoral circumcision are extreme pain during menstruation and sexual intercourse, chronic kidney problems and abdominal pains – all due to physical trauma. Infected fistulas can make the life of a woman hell – and they can only be treated by an operation.
11:16
Since 1984, with support of the Social Ministry, Togo has run an awareness raising and information campaign. Akim Banabesse has once again called together traditional midwives and healers and circumcisers to warn them of the dangers of female circumcision.
11:52
She’s shown the healing medicines of the circumcisers. Often they are herb pastes mixed with eggs, ashes and dung – used to speed up the healing process. According to country and tradition, the circumcision usually means removing the inner and outer labia lips with a rusty razorblade or knife.
12:27
Original sound
Akim Banabesse
Midwife and women’s rights activist
Anyone who circumcises despite the ban and is reported can be punished with up to 2 months to 5 years in prison or they can be fined up to a million African francs. Now the circumcisers are worried but all the villagers want to continue with female genital mutilation. That’s our problem. Nevertheless, I say that raising awareness of this subject is the best. We have to continue with the information campaign.
13:02
Women like Akim Banabesse however, fear African governments will push through laws banning female circumcision but may well put a halt to local initiatives and awareness campaigns which they think are crucial for success. Religion is often used to try to justify circumcision. Some say it’s anchored in the Koran. But the highest Muslim authorities in northern Togo argue about that.
13:56
Original sound
Ali Kamatou-Touré
Muslim religious authority
The Koran states that young boys must be cut because urine gathers under the foreskin. A man must be clean to pray. Mohammed was already circumcised when he arrived in the world. He was pure. But there’s no such thing about women in the Koran. And, I’m telling you the truth. I’m a man of God.
14:20
In the family of farmer Issaou Aboulay things are changing. Nearly ten years ago he wanted to take an uncircumcised woman as his fourth wife. His other wives were against it but he bent them to his will. Now, he sees a difference between his wives.
14:50
Original sound
Issaou Aboulay
Farmer
My uncircumcised wife is receptive to sex. Uncircumcised women can become aroused and can have an orgasm. My other wives aren’t very receptive – for me there’s a big difference.
15:11
Original sound
Bangna Badaria
Daughter
I wanted to be circumcised like the others but my father was against it. We’ve heard that it can bring about a lot of problems. If that weren’t the case, then I’d have nothing against the clitoris being cut away.
15:36
In Nigeria a play by Performance Studio Workshop has stirred up women. It’s telling them to refuse being circumcised.
15:57
For small children that’s impossible. In some tribes in Nigeria, cutting the skin marks a baby’s tribal affiliations. They’re circumcised at the same time.
At 16.20
Amateur video
16:24
Calabar – a provincial city in southern Nigeria - the most populace country in Africa with 110 million people. The tribes of the Efiks, Efut and Qua (kwa) live here – three of the 250 or so ethnic groups in the country. As this memorial shows, men here through the centuries have liked their women round and fat. The museum shows images of a tradition that is closely combined with cutting away the clitoris. Girls are circumcised when they’re children. And, when they’re of a marriageable age they spend a year getting properly fat – just like Bassey Effiom.
17:28
Original Sound
Bassey-Effiom
Fattened girl
I like our tradition even though the government banned it several years ago. I’ve been here for six months. Every girl should go through this procedure before they get married.
17:45
The Calabar women have a reputation to maintain. Making men particularly happy. With the help of massages and rubbing chalk into the skin, the rolls of fat are directed to the right position.
18:13
Bassey’s mother is permanently cooking. Her husband is a farmer. In the country, it’s easier to finance a fat cure than in the city. Bassey’s mother starts cooking at five o’clock in the morning – and continues through to nightfall.
18:34
Original sound
Agosta Effiom
Mother
The tradition must be maintained. If we feed Bassey well, she’ll get fat and the family of the man she’s going to marry will know that we’ve cared for her well. I will be very proud.
18:49
Her sister paints designs on her body several times a day. During the virgin fat cure she’s not allowed to leave the room. Two simple methods are used to make her fat. Bassey must eat as much as possible and must move as little as possible. Singing helps Bassey stave off the boredom.
19:19
Original sound
Agnes Etim
Fat expert
I’ve been fattening girls for decades so that they can lead a happy life with their husband. When I was young I had the same thing and I was also circumcised.
19:34
In this place it’s not a question of fat or thin but rather human rights. The Girl Power Initiative - a women’s rights group – is fighting against circumcision and the fat houses.
19:47
Original sound
Eka Bassey
Women’s rights activist
Force-feeding somebody means there’s going to be health implications later on in life like diabetes and all the kinds of complications that come with obesity. And then it’s also a violation of your rights because they live in isolation and you can’t move. You don’t have a choice.
20:10
Already by early morning 22 year-old Bassey is stuffed with carbohydrates. Only her family and the fat expert are allowed access to Bassey’s room. In Africa, the topic of sex is generally taboo. But, during her isolation Bassey is instructed by the fat expert about sex, unwanted pregnancies, Aids and rape.
20:45
Today is a day to celebrate. The men are brewing palm wine. For the first time in three months Bassey is going to show off to her neighbours her recently gained pounds. It’s halftime. The palm wine is enjoyed as much as the singing and dancing.
21:39
The fat expert has to defend her reputation. And, so she watches with anxious eyes over the fattening process. Now, Bassey has to spend another three months in her room.
22:10
In Calabar, because the fat houses are now illegal, most cures take place secretly in the villages.
22:20
Ruth Ebassy was initiated by her mother into the secrets of the fat cure and circumcision. She finds the ingredients in the market. The centuries long tradition is still being practiced despite tough punishments. The parents, the circumciser and the fat expert can be sentenced to 6 months in prison or a fine of 100 Euros. Uba Ekpeyong is dressed up. After months of isolation she’s been shown to her family.
23.06
Original sound
Uba Ekpeyong
Fattened woman
I’d do the same thing with my daughter.
23:10
Question: Why?
23:13
Original sound
It’s our tradition, our culture.
23:17
Original sound
Ruth Ebassy
Fat expert and circumciser
The students at the university think it’s a waste of time. But older people want their daughters to be respected women. You have to bring a girl for a fat cure before she marries a man.
23:36
After 90 days in her room, Uba steps out – fat, round and ready for marriage.
24:06
There are no fat cures in Sudan. But here, like in Somalia, female genital mutilation is practiced.
24:31
In the last 50 years there have been many efforts to abolish circumcision. Sudan was one of the first countries to legally ban female genital mutilation. In 1946, infibulation became punishable by law. The ‘Sunna’ – a lesser form of circumcision removing only the tip of the clitoris is still allowed.
25:03
Non-governmental organisations run awareness raising campaigns for men. They believe sexual lust for them is greater the smaller the vagina of the woman.
25:16
Here, like in Chad, Egypt, Eritrea, Guinea, Mali and Somalia the most extreme form of female genital mutilation is practiced. It’s called Pharaonic circumcision or infibulation where the clitoris, outer and inner lips of the labia are removed and the scraped sides of the vulva joined across the vagina and the wound closed with thorns. Only a narrow opening is left for the exit of urine and menstrual blood. The legs of the girls are tied so they can’t move for weeks.
At 26:00 amateur video
26:36
UNICEF and human rights organisations are fighting against the prejudice and superstitions of the population.
26:50
In rural areas, with the help of a model, female anatomy is explained to women – this is already a big step because in Africa such matters have been strictly taboo. In Sudan, there’s a law against circumcision. But the situation is unclear with not all parts of the country paying heed to the law. That doesn’t make the work or organisations trying to stamp out harmful traditional practices any easier.
27:27
Original sound
Ishraqa Mustafa
Circumcised woman
What you never forget is the sight of the needle and scissors that are used for the excision.
27:33
Original sound
Fatima Hassan Ahmed
Excised woman
I couldn’t urinate for three or four days. The older women threatened me with violence. I screamed loudly and finally I could urinate. It was terrible. The wound became infected.
28.00
The organisation tries to get the message through to children using theatre and dance. Meantime, more voices are being raised condemning the removal of the clitoris as an attack on the body, freedom and development prospects of women. But that view will take a long time to be accepted.
28:40
Original sound
Dr Samira Ahmed
UNICEF, Sudan
Circumcision is a violation of international human rights particularly against Article 19 of the Convention on the Rights of Children. UNICEF is of the opinion that children must be listened to and that they can refuse to be circumcised because it’s the cause of pain and damages them for their entire life.
29:19
In most countries where circumcision is practiced, the uncircumcised genitals of women are considered ugly. Mothers believe they are doing their daughters a favour by having them excised. But, the first sexual intercourse after an infibulation circumcision can only be achieved by slow, painful stretching of the vaginal opening. A study in Sudan showed that over 15% of women had to have their stitched up vaginas re-opened before they could have sex.
29:54
Original sound
Fatima Abdallah
Circumcised woman
The people are now better informed about the problem. They have, not only here but also in neighbouring villages suffered from circumcision. It’s caused a lot of damage. A woman died during childbirth because of her circumcision.
30:09
She and other women in the villages understand the severe consequences of a clitoral excision. Her five-year old daughter will be spared the torment of being cut.
30:21
Original sound
Fatima Hassan
Circumcised woman
I don’t want my daughter to be circumcised. I won’t let her be touched, even when she’s older.
30:25
That’s a courageous decision. Circumcisers are highly respected in the community. Thanks to an awareness raising campaign, female genital mutilation is no longer taboo in this region. It’s even become a topic of public discussion.
30:58
In Sudan, newly trained midwives now have to swear an oath.
31:08
It’s part of the state campaign against circumcision, because mainly it’s the midwives who do it.
31:19
Original sound
Nafisa Mustafa Suleiman
Director – School for Midwives
The only solution is an oath. If they swear not to practice circumcision, then they have to refrain. I believe it’s the only possibility to stop clitoral circumcision.
31:36
Islamic leaders are divided over clitoral circumcision. They refer to some remarks of the prophet Mohammed. The prophet supposedly said “ Reduce, but do not destroy.” It’s a commonly held view.
31:57
Original sound
Dr Sit el Banat
Gynaecologist
Concerning circumcision, we trust in God and keep to the laws and teaching of the prophet. The prophet has said there should be circumcision so it is impossible to enact a law to forbid circumcision. In the case of a woman who wants her child to be circumcised with the Sunna method, there should be this possibility to have it done. In the case they don’t want any circumcision, than that’s her decision.
32:24
Sunna is the mildest form of circumcision. Only the tip of the clitoris is removed. Even if resistance to female genital mutilation is slowly becoming more widespread the Sudanese government doesn’t want any open discussion in the press.
32:40
Mahjoub Mohammed Salih
Editor – Al Ayam newspaper
The government threw out an article from a doctor because in their opinion he had used an obscene expression concerning circumcision. But we believed it was medically correct and objective.
32:56
In all African countries where female circumcision is practiced the only hope of changing views is through ongoing awareness raising campaigns. The EZA, the Austrian Development Agency, made a film about two girls and their story. One was circumcised and died during childbirth, while the other girl had a problem-free birth. Produced in the local language, this film was shown widely in Ethiopia.
Leave free
34:24
The script was written by Doris Gebru-Zeilermayr. Villagers were the actors.
34:41
Original sound
Doris Gebru-Zeilermayr
EZA Ethiopia
Statistics at the end of the 90’s showed that 90 per cent of Ethiopian women are circumcised. This tradition is practiced amongst Orthodox Christians as much as by the Muslim population. Different non-governmental organisations in the country are trying to discuss this with the population.
35:38
Aynalem Regassa
Family Ministry, Ethiopia
We started an awareness campaign in the villages and schools on the negative effects of traditional practices such as marriage of children , cutting away the clitoris, and we’re now starting to see our first successes.
35:55
For Bedria Aman it’s not obvious she should go to school - if her husband is against it. But the 16 year-old is fighting for her rights.
36:21
Bedria was forced to marry by her parents at the age of thirteen. She’s the third wife of her husband. The first died, the second ran away. Now she has to look after the six-year-old son of her husband. Her parents got about 100 Euros for her – not much for a daughter – about a third of the going bride price.
37:00
Bedria’s husband is a cabinetmaker. In Ethiopia, many girls are circumcised shortly before marriage. Bedria should have been circumcised too, but she refused. First she ran to her parents, who sent her back. She filed for divorce with the Islamic court but was rejected. Women like Bedria have few rights in Ethiopia.
37:27
Original sound
Ganna Embelee
Cabinetmaker
I wanted a circumcision but she refused. But I noticed when we have sexual intercourse that it doesn’t hurt her like it did my other wives. So, I gave in.
37:41
O-sound
Bedria Aman
Wife
My neighbour nearly bled to death when she was giving birth because she was mutilated. Her child died. That’s why I didn’t want to be circumcised.
37:54
Where clitoral circumcision is common practice and the parents and the parents willing, the circumcision is usually done by a midwife or doctor – despite the ban. The injection takes away the pain – but there’s also a degree of security. Here, thread is used to sew tissue together, leaving a tiny opening. It is an intervention with serious physical and psychological consequences that can never be undone.
At 38:21
Amateur video
38:40
For over 25 years Berhane Ras-Work has been fighting against female genital mutilation. Her non-governmental organisation ‘Inter-African Committee’ organises women’s groups who are fighting against this practice with an awareness campaign. Here, she’s come to visit the first circumciser in Ethiopia she persuaded to lay down her knife and razor blades.
39:08
In off
39:20 in On
Berhane Ras-Work
Inter-African Committee
(English)
We’ve come a long way. You see these women sitting around me and discussing it openly. We’re condemning it and not only that they’ve converted themselves into something else. But now at this stage there is the political will. There are many organisations that are wanting to engage in this campaign. Also women like this, not only in Ethiopia but in other places. So, if we join hands and adopt a common front I’m sure than 2010 is not such a short time to declare a zero tolerance of FGM.
39:44
The circumciser is now getting help through a micro-credit scheme. Today, she’s selling spices and yarn. It’s clear to her now that her operations can have serious consequences. In 16 countries there are already protocols established to abolish female genital mutilation.
40:04
Asha Aman is also fighting against this practice. At the age of 14, a week before her wedding, she was circumcised. The wound didn’t heal, but even so, her first husband brutally had intercourse with her. She was in terrible pain for three days. The vaginal opening was too small. Even though the opening was enlarged her first child died shortly after birth.
40 :32
Today, she’s happy with her second husband. She has prevented the circumcision of her daughters.
4:30
Original sound
Asha Aman
Wife
I experienced myself what it means to be circumcised. I want to save others from that and that’s why I’ve got involved. I could have died.
40:59
Original sound
Aman Jiru
Husband
The village community didn’t accept my daughter because she wasn’t cut. But the imam in the mosque has also spoken out against this tradition. So, we didn’t have a circumcision.
41:15
It is not always easy for uncircumcised girls to find a husband. Men believe that such women are unbridled and become nymphomaniacs.
41:27
Original sound
Askech Merid
Uncircumcised girl
I was angry because my parents wouldn’t let me be cut. But now I’m happy because I had a simple birth.
41:40
Even in Europe, through immigration, tens of thousands of black African girls are in danger – victims of a tradition and religious beliefs grounded in violence.
41:59
Original sound
Berhane Ras-Work
Inter-African Committee
(In English)
It looks like women against women because it’s the grandmother, it’s the excisers and it’s the mothers who insist on this. Women. All women. But when you dig into the problem, when you go into the background, it’s for men. Why? Because excision is done for virginity. To maintain the virginity of the girl for her husband. It’s done to reduce the sexuality of women, again for the husband, to be manageable for the husband, less sexual.
42:30
In the Afar region of Ethiopia, home of the semi-nomadic people, 29 villages have put a halt to the tradition of clitoral excision. As a result the young women and their parents need information. The project is financed by Care Austria. It’s dedicated specifically to teaching against the traditional practices of female excision.
43:08
Original sound
Kamese Kedamo
Circumciser
I closed the girl up with a thorn. I was proud that I was the best exciser. The opening was very small. For 4 weeks a rope was tied around her legs so the wound could heal.
43:20
The circumciser was given a goat and a camel at the wedding to thank her for her work because the opening was particularly narrow. Since religious leaders are now getting behind the movement to outlaw the mutilation, some circumcisers are stopping their activities – at least officially.
43:40
Original sound
Assum Hassan Waly
Village elder
Since the practice was first spoken against in the mosque we stopped it. We elders got together and banned our girls from being circumcised.
43:55
The circumcision of female genitalia is a violation of human rights. But as long as this is not explained to parents and their children, around 6’000 women a day will continue to undergo this brutal procedure.
Text ends 44:10
Pictures end 45 :00
To 00:21 No text
0:58 – 1:08
Title: The Right to be Feminine
1:22 – 1:29
Subtitle
Female Genital Mutilation in Africa
1:32
Nearly ten years ago, Koura Tenne’s grandmother woke her up early in the morning. She had a premonition what was about to happen. Several women held her down. Legs spread and pinned to the ground like a wounded animal. She knew she was changing from a girl to a woman and becoming a member of the community.
2.03
Like Koura in the West African country of Togo, over 130 million girls worldwide have undergone circumcision of their clitoris. In the West, it’s seen as a bloody and useless ritual. But in African tradition it’s seen as a pure and desirable.
2:50
Original sound
Koura Tenne
Circumcised
I screamed when the circumciser cut away the clitoris. But after that, I didn’t any more. It wasn’t so terrible. My son was also born here. I had to go into the hospital where I had an injection. The birth wasn’t difficult. And, if I have a girl, then I’ll let her be cut too.
3:27
Surprising words. According to estimates by the World Health Organisation, 6’000 girls a day are victims of female genital mutilation.
3:52
The parents of Koura slaughtered a hen as part of the clitoris circumcision ceremony. Today, a hen is sacrificed for them. It’s been almost 10 years since we first came to this small village in the north of Togo. Ten years on, we’ve come to see if there’s any resistance to this painful practice.
4:30
Her six-year old son Tao is proud of the cap his father gave him. He’s a truck driver and often away from home. Mother and son live with the grandmother. All the children and neighbours profit from the cooking.
5:00
Koura has difficulty understanding our questions. Describing what she feels when she has sex.
5:11
Original sound
Koura Tenne
Circumcised
We sleep together, but I don’t feel much
5:25
Question: What do you feel? Are you excited, does it hurt?
5:29
Original sound
Koura
No, it doesn’t hurt.
5:31
Question: What do you feel? Do you have an orgasm?
5:36
Original sound
Koura
No. I don’t know about that.
5:40
Like most of her fellow sufferers, Koura is a Muslim. Female genital circumcision is practiced in 28 African countries and also in some countries in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. For men in these countries an uncut woman is considered unclean and unmarriageable. They don’t want anyone ‘unclean’ – as women with intact clitorises are called. The men are convinced a circumcision gives them more control. What they mean is the circumcising ensures the morals and loyalty of their wives.
6:19
Abatani Assoumanou circumcised Koura ten years ago. People here believe she was chosen by the ancestors to cut away the clitorises of young girls – even though the practice is now illegal in Togo.
6:36
Original sound
Abatami Assoumanou
Circumciser
Now I have to work in the fields. The money is not enough.
At 6:43
When I cut, I do it in secret. It’s our tradition. If we don’t do it there are terrible consequences to reckon with.
7:00
Circumcision often leads to severe complications at birth. Frequently, the closed up tissue is torn. If there’s no help the perineum can tear or the child can be stillborn. Up to 50 per cent of childbirth deaths are directly related to circumcision.
7:27 in off
7:32 in On
Original sound
Akim Banabesse
Midwife and women’s rights activist
When I work as a midwife I often have to take the scissors and cut the vulva of the woman on both sides to make it bigger. Then I help with the birth of the child. But you have to know this: Once they are cut they can get an infection or suffer from a haemorrhage. The child suffers during the birth. Sometimes I have to resuscitate the baby. Fortunately, that happens in the hospital. But in the countryside the danger of infection is far greater.
8:07
Akim Banabesse should know. The retired midwife has run an awareness raising campaign against female circumcision for over a decade. She was president of the Inter-African Committee for Traditional Practices that have adverse effects on women and children. Through her work she’s visited many circumcisers and traditional healers in the villages. She works closely with women, sometimes against her own conscience, as she knows the cutting is going on behind her back.
8:49
Here she’s visiting a traditional midwife, which thanks to her help at least has rubber gloves and metal trays to help with the birth.
9:18
Original sound
Meminetou Tairou
Traditional midwife
With almost every birth of a circumcised woman I have problems – even serious ones that can lead to death. Apart from that, the circumcisers still use the same razor blade. They don’t change it. So the HIV virus can spread.
9:36
Original sound
Zenabou, 18 years
My grandmother wanted me to be circumcised. I’ve heard of possible problems you can have with birth. Now, I’m worried about it.
9:54
She’s right. In rural areas there’s often a huge distance to get to a hospital. Meminetou has her own medicines. In this pot she’s simmering a liquid that stops bleeding.
10:20
Typical long-term damages of clitoral circumcision are extreme pain during menstruation and sexual intercourse, chronic kidney problems and abdominal pains – all due to physical trauma. Infected fistulas can make the life of a woman hell – and they can only be treated by an operation.
11:16
Since 1984, with support of the Social Ministry, Togo has run an awareness raising and information campaign. Akim Banabesse has once again called together traditional midwives and healers and circumcisers to warn them of the dangers of female circumcision.
11:52
She’s shown the healing medicines of the circumcisers. Often they are herb pastes mixed with eggs, ashes and dung – used to speed up the healing process. According to country and tradition, the circumcision usually means removing the inner and outer labia lips with a rusty razorblade or knife.
12:27
Original sound
Akim Banabesse
Midwife and women’s rights activist
Anyone who circumcises despite the ban and is reported can be punished with up to 2 months to 5 years in prison or they can be fined up to a million African francs. Now the circumcisers are worried but all the villagers want to continue with female genital mutilation. That’s our problem. Nevertheless, I say that raising awareness of this subject is the best. We have to continue with the information campaign.
13:02
Women like Akim Banabesse however, fear African governments will push through laws banning female circumcision but may well put a halt to local initiatives and awareness campaigns which they think are crucial for success. Religion is often used to try to justify circumcision. Some say it’s anchored in the Koran. But the highest Muslim authorities in northern Togo argue about that.
13:56
Original sound
Ali Kamatou-Touré
Muslim religious authority
The Koran states that young boys must be cut because urine gathers under the foreskin. A man must be clean to pray. Mohammed was already circumcised when he arrived in the world. He was pure. But there’s no such thing about women in the Koran. And, I’m telling you the truth. I’m a man of God.
14:20
In the family of farmer Issaou Aboulay things are changing. Nearly ten years ago he wanted to take an uncircumcised woman as his fourth wife. His other wives were against it but he bent them to his will. Now, he sees a difference between his wives.
14:50
Original sound
Issaou Aboulay
Farmer
My uncircumcised wife is receptive to sex. Uncircumcised women can become aroused and can have an orgasm. My other wives aren’t very receptive – for me there’s a big difference.
15:11
Original sound
Bangna Badaria
Daughter
I wanted to be circumcised like the others but my father was against it. We’ve heard that it can bring about a lot of problems. If that weren’t the case, then I’d have nothing against the clitoris being cut away.
15:36
In Nigeria a play by Performance Studio Workshop has stirred up women. It’s telling them to refuse being circumcised.
15:57
For small children that’s impossible. In some tribes in Nigeria, cutting the skin marks a baby’s tribal affiliations. They’re circumcised at the same time.
At 16.20
Amateur video
16:24
Calabar – a provincial city in southern Nigeria - the most populace country in Africa with 110 million people. The tribes of the Efiks, Efut and Qua (kwa) live here – three of the 250 or so ethnic groups in the country. As this memorial shows, men here through the centuries have liked their women round and fat. The museum shows images of a tradition that is closely combined with cutting away the clitoris. Girls are circumcised when they’re children. And, when they’re of a marriageable age they spend a year getting properly fat – just like Bassey Effiom.
17:28
Original Sound
Bassey-Effiom
Fattened girl
I like our tradition even though the government banned it several years ago. I’ve been here for six months. Every girl should go through this procedure before they get married.
17:45
The Calabar women have a reputation to maintain. Making men particularly happy. With the help of massages and rubbing chalk into the skin, the rolls of fat are directed to the right position.
18:13
Bassey’s mother is permanently cooking. Her husband is a farmer. In the country, it’s easier to finance a fat cure than in the city. Bassey’s mother starts cooking at five o’clock in the morning – and continues through to nightfall.
18:34
Original sound
Agosta Effiom
Mother
The tradition must be maintained. If we feed Bassey well, she’ll get fat and the family of the man she’s going to marry will know that we’ve cared for her well. I will be very proud.
18:49
Her sister paints designs on her body several times a day. During the virgin fat cure she’s not allowed to leave the room. Two simple methods are used to make her fat. Bassey must eat as much as possible and must move as little as possible. Singing helps Bassey stave off the boredom.
19:19
Original sound
Agnes Etim
Fat expert
I’ve been fattening girls for decades so that they can lead a happy life with their husband. When I was young I had the same thing and I was also circumcised.
19:34
In this place it’s not a question of fat or thin but rather human rights. The Girl Power Initiative - a women’s rights group – is fighting against circumcision and the fat houses.
19:47
Original sound
Eka Bassey
Women’s rights activist
Force-feeding somebody means there’s going to be health implications later on in life like diabetes and all the kinds of complications that come with obesity. And then it’s also a violation of your rights because they live in isolation and you can’t move. You don’t have a choice.
20:10
Already by early morning 22 year-old Bassey is stuffed with carbohydrates. Only her family and the fat expert are allowed access to Bassey’s room. In Africa, the topic of sex is generally taboo. But, during her isolation Bassey is instructed by the fat expert about sex, unwanted pregnancies, Aids and rape.
20:45
Today is a day to celebrate. The men are brewing palm wine. For the first time in three months Bassey is going to show off to her neighbours her recently gained pounds. It’s halftime. The palm wine is enjoyed as much as the singing and dancing.
21:39
The fat expert has to defend her reputation. And, so she watches with anxious eyes over the fattening process. Now, Bassey has to spend another three months in her room.
22:10
In Calabar, because the fat houses are now illegal, most cures take place secretly in the villages.
22:20
Ruth Ebassy was initiated by her mother into the secrets of the fat cure and circumcision. She finds the ingredients in the market. The centuries long tradition is still being practiced despite tough punishments. The parents, the circumciser and the fat expert can be sentenced to 6 months in prison or a fine of 100 Euros. Uba Ekpeyong is dressed up. After months of isolation she’s been shown to her family.
23.06
Original sound
Uba Ekpeyong
Fattened woman
I’d do the same thing with my daughter.
23:10
Question: Why?
23:13
Original sound
It’s our tradition, our culture.
23:17
Original sound
Ruth Ebassy
Fat expert and circumciser
The students at the university think it’s a waste of time. But older people want their daughters to be respected women. You have to bring a girl for a fat cure before she marries a man.
23:36
After 90 days in her room, Uba steps out – fat, round and ready for marriage.
24:06
There are no fat cures in Sudan. But here, like in Somalia, female genital mutilation is practiced.
24:31
In the last 50 years there have been many efforts to abolish circumcision. Sudan was one of the first countries to legally ban female genital mutilation. In 1946, infibulation became punishable by law. The ‘Sunna’ – a lesser form of circumcision removing only the tip of the clitoris is still allowed.
25:03
Non-governmental organisations run awareness raising campaigns for men. They believe sexual lust for them is greater the smaller the vagina of the woman.
25:16
Here, like in Chad, Egypt, Eritrea, Guinea, Mali and Somalia the most extreme form of female genital mutilation is practiced. It’s called Pharaonic circumcision or infibulation where the clitoris, outer and inner lips of the labia are removed and the scraped sides of the vulva joined across the vagina and the wound closed with thorns. Only a narrow opening is left for the exit of urine and menstrual blood. The legs of the girls are tied so they can’t move for weeks.
At 26:00 amateur video
26:36
UNICEF and human rights organisations are fighting against the prejudice and superstitions of the population.
26:50
In rural areas, with the help of a model, female anatomy is explained to women – this is already a big step because in Africa such matters have been strictly taboo. In Sudan, there’s a law against circumcision. But the situation is unclear with not all parts of the country paying heed to the law. That doesn’t make the work or organisations trying to stamp out harmful traditional practices any easier.
27:27
Original sound
Ishraqa Mustafa
Circumcised woman
What you never forget is the sight of the needle and scissors that are used for the excision.
27:33
Original sound
Fatima Hassan Ahmed
Excised woman
I couldn’t urinate for three or four days. The older women threatened me with violence. I screamed loudly and finally I could urinate. It was terrible. The wound became infected.
28.00
The organisation tries to get the message through to children using theatre and dance. Meantime, more voices are being raised condemning the removal of the clitoris as an attack on the body, freedom and development prospects of women. But that view will take a long time to be accepted.
28:40
Original sound
Dr Samira Ahmed
UNICEF, Sudan
Circumcision is a violation of international human rights particularly against Article 19 of the Convention on the Rights of Children. UNICEF is of the opinion that children must be listened to and that they can refuse to be circumcised because it’s the cause of pain and damages them for their entire life.
29:19
In most countries where circumcision is practiced, the uncircumcised genitals of women are considered ugly. Mothers believe they are doing their daughters a favour by having them excised. But, the first sexual intercourse after an infibulation circumcision can only be achieved by slow, painful stretching of the vaginal opening. A study in Sudan showed that over 15% of women had to have their stitched up vaginas re-opened before they could have sex.
29:54
Original sound
Fatima Abdallah
Circumcised woman
The people are now better informed about the problem. They have, not only here but also in neighbouring villages suffered from circumcision. It’s caused a lot of damage. A woman died during childbirth because of her circumcision.
30:09
She and other women in the villages understand the severe consequences of a clitoral excision. Her five-year old daughter will be spared the torment of being cut.
30:21
Original sound
Fatima Hassan
Circumcised woman
I don’t want my daughter to be circumcised. I won’t let her be touched, even when she’s older.
30:25
That’s a courageous decision. Circumcisers are highly respected in the community. Thanks to an awareness raising campaign, female genital mutilation is no longer taboo in this region. It’s even become a topic of public discussion.
30:58
In Sudan, newly trained midwives now have to swear an oath.
31:08
It’s part of the state campaign against circumcision, because mainly it’s the midwives who do it.
31:19
Original sound
Nafisa Mustafa Suleiman
Director – School for Midwives
The only solution is an oath. If they swear not to practice circumcision, then they have to refrain. I believe it’s the only possibility to stop clitoral circumcision.
31:36
Islamic leaders are divided over clitoral circumcision. They refer to some remarks of the prophet Mohammed. The prophet supposedly said “ Reduce, but do not destroy.” It’s a commonly held view.
31:57
Original sound
Dr Sit el Banat
Gynaecologist
Concerning circumcision, we trust in God and keep to the laws and teaching of the prophet. The prophet has said there should be circumcision so it is impossible to enact a law to forbid circumcision. In the case of a woman who wants her child to be circumcised with the Sunna method, there should be this possibility to have it done. In the case they don’t want any circumcision, than that’s her decision.
32:24
Sunna is the mildest form of circumcision. Only the tip of the clitoris is removed. Even if resistance to female genital mutilation is slowly becoming more widespread the Sudanese government doesn’t want any open discussion in the press.
32:40
Mahjoub Mohammed Salih
Editor – Al Ayam newspaper
The government threw out an article from a doctor because in their opinion he had used an obscene expression concerning circumcision. But we believed it was medically correct and objective.
32:56
In all African countries where female circumcision is practiced the only hope of changing views is through ongoing awareness raising campaigns. The EZA, the Austrian Development Agency, made a film about two girls and their story. One was circumcised and died during childbirth, while the other girl had a problem-free birth. Produced in the local language, this film was shown widely in Ethiopia.
Leave free
34:24
The script was written by Doris Gebru-Zeilermayr. Villagers were the actors.
34:41
Original sound
Doris Gebru-Zeilermayr
EZA Ethiopia
Statistics at the end of the 90’s showed that 90 per cent of Ethiopian women are circumcised. This tradition is practiced amongst Orthodox Christians as much as by the Muslim population. Different non-governmental organisations in the country are trying to discuss this with the population.
35:38
Aynalem Regassa
Family Ministry, Ethiopia
We started an awareness campaign in the villages and schools on the negative effects of traditional practices such as marriage of children , cutting away the clitoris, and we’re now starting to see our first successes.
35:55
For Bedria Aman it’s not obvious she should go to school - if her husband is against it. But the 16 year-old is fighting for her rights.
36:21
Bedria was forced to marry by her parents at the age of thirteen. She’s the third wife of her husband. The first died, the second ran away. Now she has to look after the six-year-old son of her husband. Her parents got about 100 Euros for her – not much for a daughter – about a third of the going bride price.
37:00
Bedria’s husband is a cabinetmaker. In Ethiopia, many girls are circumcised shortly before marriage. Bedria should have been circumcised too, but she refused. First she ran to her parents, who sent her back. She filed for divorce with the Islamic court but was rejected. Women like Bedria have few rights in Ethiopia.
37:27
Original sound
Ganna Embelee
Cabinetmaker
I wanted a circumcision but she refused. But I noticed when we have sexual intercourse that it doesn’t hurt her like it did my other wives. So, I gave in.
37:41
O-sound
Bedria Aman
Wife
My neighbour nearly bled to death when she was giving birth because she was mutilated. Her child died. That’s why I didn’t want to be circumcised.
37:54
Where clitoral circumcision is common practice and the parents and the parents willing, the circumcision is usually done by a midwife or doctor – despite the ban. The injection takes away the pain – but there’s also a degree of security. Here, thread is used to sew tissue together, leaving a tiny opening. It is an intervention with serious physical and psychological consequences that can never be undone.
At 38:21
Amateur video
38:40
For over 25 years Berhane Ras-Work has been fighting against female genital mutilation. Her non-governmental organisation ‘Inter-African Committee’ organises women’s groups who are fighting against this practice with an awareness campaign. Here, she’s come to visit the first circumciser in Ethiopia she persuaded to lay down her knife and razor blades.
39:08
In off
39:20 in On
Berhane Ras-Work
Inter-African Committee
(English)
We’ve come a long way. You see these women sitting around me and discussing it openly. We’re condemning it and not only that they’ve converted themselves into something else. But now at this stage there is the political will. There are many organisations that are wanting to engage in this campaign. Also women like this, not only in Ethiopia but in other places. So, if we join hands and adopt a common front I’m sure than 2010 is not such a short time to declare a zero tolerance of FGM.
39:44
The circumciser is now getting help through a micro-credit scheme. Today, she’s selling spices and yarn. It’s clear to her now that her operations can have serious consequences. In 16 countries there are already protocols established to abolish female genital mutilation.
40:04
Asha Aman is also fighting against this practice. At the age of 14, a week before her wedding, she was circumcised. The wound didn’t heal, but even so, her first husband brutally had intercourse with her. She was in terrible pain for three days. The vaginal opening was too small. Even though the opening was enlarged her first child died shortly after birth.
40 :32
Today, she’s happy with her second husband. She has prevented the circumcision of her daughters.
4:30
Original sound
Asha Aman
Wife
I experienced myself what it means to be circumcised. I want to save others from that and that’s why I’ve got involved. I could have died.
40:59
Original sound
Aman Jiru
Husband
The village community didn’t accept my daughter because she wasn’t cut. But the imam in the mosque has also spoken out against this tradition. So, we didn’t have a circumcision.
41:15
It is not always easy for uncircumcised girls to find a husband. Men believe that such women are unbridled and become nymphomaniacs.
41:27
Original sound
Askech Merid
Uncircumcised girl
I was angry because my parents wouldn’t let me be cut. But now I’m happy because I had a simple birth.
41:40
Even in Europe, through immigration, tens of thousands of black African girls are in danger – victims of a tradition and religious beliefs grounded in violence.
41:59
Original sound
Berhane Ras-Work
Inter-African Committee
(In English)
It looks like women against women because it’s the grandmother, it’s the excisers and it’s the mothers who insist on this. Women. All women. But when you dig into the problem, when you go into the background, it’s for men. Why? Because excision is done for virginity. To maintain the virginity of the girl for her husband. It’s done to reduce the sexuality of women, again for the husband, to be manageable for the husband, less sexual.
42:30
In the Afar region of Ethiopia, home of the semi-nomadic people, 29 villages have put a halt to the tradition of clitoral excision. As a result the young women and their parents need information. The project is financed by Care Austria. It’s dedicated specifically to teaching against the traditional practices of female excision.
43:08
Original sound
Kamese Kedamo
Circumciser
I closed the girl up with a thorn. I was proud that I was the best exciser. The opening was very small. For 4 weeks a rope was tied around her legs so the wound could heal.
43:20
The circumciser was given a goat and a camel at the wedding to thank her for her work because the opening was particularly narrow. Since religious leaders are now getting behind the movement to outlaw the mutilation, some circumcisers are stopping their activities – at least officially.
43:40
Original sound
Assum Hassan Waly
Village elder
Since the practice was first spoken against in the mosque we stopped it. We elders got together and banned our girls from being circumcised.
43:55
The circumcision of female genitalia is a violation of human rights. But as long as this is not explained to parents and their children, around 6’000 women a day will continue to undergo this brutal procedure.
Text ends 44:10
Pictures end 45 :00