Gambia stands at a crucial crossroads of tradition, human rights and progress, navigating the delicate path of decriminalizing FGM. Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM), also referred to as female circumcision, is a harmful and invasive but very traditional practice of the partial or complete removal of a woman’s external genitalia for non-medical reasons. FGM is performed as a tradition and social norm as a symbol that a girl is ready for marriage. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), at least 200 million women and girls today have undergone the process of FGM. FGM is harmful due to immediate risks such as pain, trauma and infection, as well as long-term consequences including childbirth complications, chronic pain and psychological trauma. This practice violates human rights, infringing on autonomy and contributing to stigmatization and gender inequalities. 

Movement to Decriminalize FGM 

In August 2023, the conviction of three women in Gambia for FGM reignited a contentious debate surrounding the existing ban on FGM. The women had to pay either 15,000 dalasis (around $1,000 USD) or serve up to a year in jail. The three women received charges under the reasons of the country’s Women’s Amendment Act of 2015.

In a National Assembly session in September 2023, support arose for Sulayman Saho, a National Assembly Member advocating for the repeal of the 2015 law banning FGM. This support was backed by many political and religious leaders actively working for the decriminalization of FGM, with Parliament and the Supreme Islamic Council in Gambia openly supporting the practice. Saho’s remarks coincided with tensions between Islamic leaders, led by Imam Abdoulie Fatty. Saho emphasized the need to examine both the legal and cultural aspects surrounding FGM. Political figures such as Saho and many others believe FGM decriminalization in Gambia preserves cultural and traditional practices that infringe on their rights of personal choice.

Impact of Decriminalization of FGM in Gambia 

Those who oppose the decriminalization of FGM in Gambia, such as the Civil Society and NGO Coalition, emphasized the Gambian government’s legal obligation to protect the rights and health of women and girls. In a statement, they strongly condemned those exploiting social and religious beliefs for personal agendas, highlighting the lasting impact on the lives of affected women. Despite some pushback, women in Gambia are at risk of becoming victims of FGM.

Resistance to the Decriminalization of FGM 

Despite efforts toward the decriminalization of FGM in Gambia, significant opposition has emerged. Established in 1984 as a nonprofit organization, the Gambia Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children (GAMCOTRAP), operating in Bakau, Gambia, is at the forefront of this initiative. 

GAMCOTRAP formed in 1984 as a nonprofit at the International Seminar on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children in Senegal with help from the World Health Organization (WHO). The seminar brought together 28 African countries discuss issues impacting the health of girls and women, including traditional practices such as FGM.

GAMCOTRAP focuses on addressing the adverse effects of traditional practices on women and girls, with a particular emphasis on combating FGM and considering the gender dimensions of HIV/AIDS. Employing a strategic approach, GAMCOTRAP has engaged in a critical campaign against harmful traditional practices. This comprehensive effort includes community-based programs, collaboration with other nonprofit organizations, educational initiatives, and advocacy campaigns. 

GAMCOTRAP partners with prominent entities such as UNICEF, U.N. Women and the Global Fund for Women. Together, these groups work to eradicate FGM, employing a multifaceted strategy encompassing awareness-raising, community engagement, and collaboration with internal and international organizations.

The UNFPA provided support to GAMCOTRAP to start the ‘“dropping of the knife” initiative, “an effort that engages circumcisers and custodians of FGM in their families and communities to enhance their understanding of the negative implications of the practice, thus influencing voluntary abandonment.”

Since the beginning of the program, more than 1,000 circumcisers in Gambia have stopped the practice of FGM and are igniting community action to end FGM in Gambia entirely. On October 2, 2021, GAMCOTRAP hosted its sixth “dropping of the knife” ceremony for 27 circumcisers from 25 communities across Gambia.

The Power of Education 

Banning FGM has shown positive outcomes — as evidenced by the 2019-20 Gambia demographic and health survey. The survey revealed a decline in the belief that FGM should continue, dropping from 65% in 2013 to 46% in 2019-20. Notably, this decrease was most significant among women who had undergone FGM. This data underscores the significance of national bans and educational initiatives in preventing FGM. 

In navigating this complex landscape, Gambia faces profound decisions at the intersection of tradition, human rights and progress, with the influence of education emerging as a strong force in reshaping perceptions and fostering societal change. 

– Bella Oliver-Steinberg
Photo: Flickr