By Omar Bah
Gambian lawmakers have recommended maintaining the country’s ban on female genital mutilation (FGM) ahead of an upcoming vote on whether to decriminalize the practice. Despite FGM being outlawed in Gambia since 2015, the cultural practice remains widespread, and the first convictions last year led to a backlash against the law.
The Joint Committee reviewed the Women’s Amendment Bill 2024, which sought to repeal the 2015 anti-FGM law. After extensive consultations with experts, the committee presented its findings and recommendations to the Assembly. It argued that the Women (Amendment) Act 2015 should be upheld to prohibit female genital mutilation in all its forms in The Gambia. The committee emphasized the health risks and violation of rights associated with FGM/C and highlighted the practice’s link to various health complications and harmful gender inequalities. It stressed the importance of maintaining the ban to safeguard the health and dignity of women and girls.
Additionally, the committee emphasized the need for legal support, protection, shelters, counseling, and research to address FGM/C. It urged the government to enforce the law banning FGM, issue clear policy directives, and implement public awareness campaigns, educational programs, and healthcare provider training while also prohibiting any attempt to medicalize the practice of FGM/C.
The controversial bill is set to undergo its third reading on 16 July.
