In 2025, an evaluation conducted by ESSEC Impact Unlimited confirmed the remarkable scope of its work, highlighting a unique support model with tangible, measurable results.

A space for speaking, understanding, and rebuilding

For many women, entering GAMS Belgium means opening the door to recovery. They find a compassionate ear, clear information about the consequences of excision, and—above all—the opportunity to reclaim ownership of their own stories.

Twice a month, support groups bring together women who have undergone FGM. They talk, cry, laugh, and together begin to tear down the wall of silence.

For Aïssata, these moments have become essential:

“Before, I never talked about it. I thought I was alone, that what had happened to me was normal. At GAMS, I met other women and realised I had the right to speak. Today I even talk about it with my daughters.”

“GAMS isn’t just an association—it’s a light.”

“Before meeting GAMS, I lived with silent pain. I didn’t dare talk about it, not even with my family. I felt ashamed. I thought it was my burden to carry alone. Then one day, I pushed open GAMS’s door… and my life changed.I was welcomed without judgement, with respect and warmth. I learned to put words to my wounds, to understand that I was neither guilty nor alone. I found a space where I could speak, receive care, and, above all, feel heard. Thanks to GAMS, I regained my self-confidence and my dignity.”

Today, Awa says she feels free:

“GAMS isn’t just an association. It’s a light—a helping hand when you think no one can help you anymore. It’s a family. My family.”

91 % of the women supported by GAMS say they now understand they have the right to speak about their excision. 84 % feel happier since their involvement with the organisation. 33 % have actively prevented an excision, convincing more than 4,000 people to abandon the practice.

Men, too, have a role to play

Too often sidelined in these discussions, men nevertheless play a decisive role. GAMS Belgium recognises this and offers them tailored support.

The results speak for themselves: 97 % of the men surveyed say they now want to engage actively in the fight against FGM.

One of them is “Uncle Moussa,” as the women he supports affectionately call him. A community liaison since 2015 and one of the first men trained by GAMS Belgium, he has been active in the field for nearly a decade. Each year, he takes part in events marking 6 February – the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM in Liège, Brussels, Namur, Verviers, and Antwerp.

“As men, as fathers, we can’t turn a blind eye.”

“When I attended my first GAMS training in 2015, I realised that silence hurts as much as excision itself. That day I decided to speak out, raise awareness, and act as a bridge for my community.”

Uncle Moussa has supported many women affected by FGM and forced marriage, offering them listening, advice, and encouragement.

“Excision isn’t just a women’s issue. As men, as fathers, we can’t turn a blind eye. I’m proud to help other men understand that.”

Like him, 35 % of participating men have taken concrete action, preventing excisions within their own circles—a crucial mobilisation that helps shift attitudes and break taboos.

Training to protect better

GAMS Belgium also works with front-line professionals—in health care, law, social work, and education—providing them with tools, knowledge, and a framework within which to intervene appropriately.

As a result of these trainings:

90 % of professionals feel able to identify at-risk situations;

81 % feel they can legitimately raise the issue with those concerned;

74 % have integrated FGM awareness into their daily practice.

Beyond their official duties, nearly one in two professionals continues their commitment in their personal lives—through advocacy, volunteering, or research.

A leading force

GAMS Belgium’s impact extends far beyond individual support. Through a coherent approach rooted in community realities, the organisation influences social norms, builds bridges between field actors, and reshapes perceptions.

Its partners praise its expertise, humility, and capability to mobilise an entire ecosystem.

GAMS Belgium is more than an NGO: it is a driving force for societal transformation, in Belgium and beyond.

Post-edited translation by Diogo Duarte Veloso (M1 student in translation at ULB) under the supervision of Matthew Langsley