A Gambian woman who was tricked into being trafficked to Kuwait in 2015 has shared her story of abuse and subsequent activism, in the hope others will be spared the “hell” she went through.  

Fatou Jagne studied pharmacy at university and was working at the biggest hospital in The Gambia. However, the salary was low, so a friend’s cousin offered to help her find a job in Kuwait. 

When Fatou arrived at the airport, her documents were seized and she was immediately sold into domestic slavery. 

She ended up working for more than 15 different families, toiling for long hours with little rest. She said life was “hell” because she was beaten, mistreated, and never paid. 

Bessie Du spoke to the young activist ahead of Saturday’s World Day Against Trafficking in Persons to learn more about her traumatic experience, and how it spurred her advocacy.