Tragic Death of Infant Sparks FGM Outrage in The Gambia

The tragic death of an infant in The Gambia has drawn national outrage, highlighting ongoing issues surrounding female genital mutilation (FGM), a practice that remains prevalent despite its legal prohibition since 2015. Police have arrested two women connected to the case as calls for action intensify.

The tragic death of a one-month-old baby girl in The Gambia, associated with female genital mutilation (FGM), has provoked significant public outcry and concern. The infant was admitted to a hospital in Banjul after experiencing severe bleeding and was pronounced dead upon arrival, with many in the community attributing her death to the outlawed practice of FGM.

The organization Women In Leadership and Liberation (WILL) condemned the incident, stating, "Culture is no excuse, tradition is no shield, this is violence, pure and simple." The authorities have arrested two women in connection with the case as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the baby's death. Abdoulie Ceesay, the Member of Parliament for the Kombo North District, emphasized the importance of safeguarding children against harmful traditions that compromise their health and dignity.

"This loss must be remembered and should drive our nation to fortify our commitment to every child's right to life, safety, and dignity," he asserted. FGM, which involves the cutting or removal of a girl's external genitalia, is often justified by cultural beliefs and misconceptions regarding hygiene and marriageability.

The Gambia has one of the highest rates of FGM, with approximately 73% of women and girls aged 15 to 49 having undergone the procedure, often performed on infants as young as six years old. WILL founder Fatou Baldeh shared insights on the alarming trend of increased FGM among infants, where parents believe early procedures yield quicker healing and are less likely to attract attention due to legal restrictions.

Despite the 2015 ban on FGM in The Gambia, which includes severe penalties for perpetrators, prosecutions remain exceedingly rare, with only one conviction occurring in 2023. Furthermore, attempts to dilute the ban have been made by advocacy groups proposing decriminalization, but a recent attempt to repeal the ban was rejected by parliament.

While FGM is outlawed in over 70 countries, it continues to be practiced predominantly in areas with significant populations of Muslims in Africa, including The Gambia.