Matida Daffeh: Fighting FGM and Championing Women’s Rights in Exile

Matida Daffeh

Country of Origin: Gambia

Main focus: sexual and reproductive health

Matida Daffeh, a feminist activist in exile from The Gambia, West Africa, has devoted her life to advancing women’s human rights. With a focus on sexual and reproductive health and the political representation of women, Matida’s activism is deeply rooted in her lived experience and unwavering commitment to social justice.

Her journey as an activist began with a personal trauma—surviving female genital mutilation (FGM) at a young age. That trauma became a mission when her young niece nearly lost her life to the same practice. According to a 2021 UNICEF report, 46% of girls under 14 in The Gambia have experienced FGM—a staggering reminder of the ongoing crisis.

Determined to create change, Matida co-founded The Girls’ Agenda, a grassroots organization that empowers young women and educates communities about the harms of FGM. Despite facing threats under a repressive regime, she remained undeterred, working alongside other activists to amplify the voices of girls and women.

After relocating to Canada for safety, Matida quickly realized that FGM is rarely acknowledged in mainstream discourse, even though more than 230 million women and girls globally are affected. She continues her advocacy by speaking at conferences and collaborating with Canadian organizations to raise awareness, while also calling attention to the lack of education and support services for FGM survivors in Canada.

Matida believes that meaningful change requires intersectionality, survivor-led narratives, and a decolonized approach to advocacy. She insists that the fight against FGM must be woven into broader struggles for gender justice and human rights.

Among her proudest achievements is contributing to the successful push for anti-FGM legislation in The Gambia—a victory she views as a result of collective, community-based activism. Today, Matida remains a fierce advocate, bridging local and global efforts to end FGM and promote justice for all women and girls.