The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SCEAM) organized a two-day workshop in Guinea-Bissau on October 28 and 29. The event trained church officials and civil society actors in preventing electoral violence, impartial election observation, and combating disinformation. Held in collaboration with the dioceses of Bissau and Bafatá, the training aimed to strengthen the Church's role in national dialogue and democratic transition. The SCEAM stated that the Church must support peaceful participation without endorsing political parties. A solidarity message from the West African Episcopal Conference was also delivered, emphasizing the need for peace and reconciliation in the country.
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In Guinea-Bissau, high maternal mortality rates are linked to female genital mutilation and early marriages, according to reports from Onda Cero. UNICEF data indicates that nearly 30% of minors have children before adulthood, with 10% doing so before age 15. Sister Florinda E Sa, who manages a Caritas project in Gabú, notes that forced marriages normalize childbirth at ages 12 or 13. Additionally, 45% of women aged 15 to 50 have undergone FGM, a practice banned since 2011 but still prevalent. Midwife Inês Gomes warns that FGM causes severe hemorrhaging during labor, leading to deaths among young mothers despite legal prohibitions.
Bishop Vítor Quematcha of Bafatá and Mansoa Imam Cheikh Mamadu Djau Djaló have called for political reconciliation in Guinea-Bissau. Bishop Quematcha spoke on Rádio Sol Mansi, urging leaders to view authority as service to the people and emphasizing respect for diversity and rejection of violence. Meanwhile, Imam Djau Djaló made his appeal during the launch of the book 'Voz de Paz' in Mansoa. He challenged political and military authorities to engage in sincere dialogue to overcome national divisions. Both religious figures agree that responsible leadership and genuine reconciliation are essential for stability and social justice in the country.
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