Sibrat – Listener Letters
A female listener named Hirut from the town of Nazareth wrote:
The situations mentioned [in Sibrat] are true to life and realistic in character. The drama provides counseling and gives hints to solve problems. It has a bearing on family life, is multipurpose, and reflects life clearly. It has enabled me to know myself. Every day it has been a source of strength for me, and made me consider it as a school in which I have learned much about life.
A male FGD participant from Yirgalem, in response to the program:
Before listening to the drama we had only superficial knowledge about FGM. Compared to the knowledge we have now, what we knew is almost nothing. The drama enabled us to see and feel the sufferings of those who have undergone the cruel operation. As a result we are determined to fight against the practice.
A female listener from Bahir Dar emphasized the importance of changing societal attitudes towards FGM/C:
Harmful traditional practices, particularly FGM, subject women to suffering and to social, economic, and moral downfall. Above and beyond this, FGM may cause loss of life. It is from the central theme of the drama that I was able to realize all these things. It has helped me to understand the cultural, traditional, and religious ceremonies of my country whether they are good or bad.
Equally significant is the effect that Sibrat has had on the male population. As a result of listening to the series, Solomon S. from Addis Ababa wrote:
I will make every effort possible on my part, by holding discussion with others and educating them, in support of attempts to tackle the problem [of FGM/C].
Another male listener from Addis Ababa named Solomon B. wrote:
The drama has enabled me to understand sufficiently the problem of FGM. As a result, I have been motivated to contribute my share to the solution of the problem. I cannot afford to sit idle when I see such a situation that is having such an adverse effect on the well-being of humanity. I have drawn lessons from the drama and learned how I can help to address this important issue and make changes in my own life.
