By Adama Maksuba
Jaha Dukureh, a prominent advocate against female genital mutilation, has urged the Gambian government to enforce the law criminalizing FGM fully.
In response to parliament’s decision to uphold the ban on female circumcision in the country, the founder of Save Hands expressed her support. FGM is punishable by up to 3 years in prison and a hefty fine of 50,000 dalasis under Gambian law. The practice was outlawed in 2015 under former President Yahya Jammeh. However, earlier this year, Almamy Gibba, a national assembly member from Jammeh’s home district of Foni Kansala, proposed legalizing female circumcision.
In a statement to the press, Jaha Dukureh praised Gambian lawmakers for upholding the ban on female genital mutilation and urged the government to take legal action against those involved in the practice. She expressed her deep satisfaction, emphasizing that this is a pivotal moment she has long awaited in her country. Dukureh thanked Gambia, the national assembly members, and Seedy Njie for their dedication.
However, she stressed that there is still much work to be done. Dukureh emphasized that her goal is not to harm or provoke resentment but rather to protect women and girls from FGM by implementing and enforcing laws. She urged The Gambia to prioritize the enforcement of these laws, stating that well-crafted legislation is only effective when properly enforced. Dukureh underscored that it is the moral obligation of the government to ensure the enforcement and public awareness of the upheld ban.
