Gambian lawmakers ignited a firestorm on Monday by voting to advance a bill that could overturn the country’s 2015 ban on female genital mutilation (FGM). The move deeply divides the nation, with supporters citing cultural and religious traditions, while activists warn of a regression in women’s rights.
The debate exposed a stark divide. Pro-FGM campaigners reportedly outnumbered those advocating for the ban’s continuation. Lawmaker Almameh Gibba, who introduced the bill, argued it upholds religious loyalty and cultural norms. Rights groups, however, fear a domino effect, potentially jeopardizing advancements like the child marriage ban. Divya Srinivasan of Equality Now expressed concern that this could not only harm Gambian women but set a dangerous precedent for the region.
The vote saw 42 lawmakers favoring further scrutiny of the bill, with only four opposing. This sends it to a parliamentary committee for review before a potential final vote. Anti-FGM activist Jaha Dukureh, a survivor who lost her sister to the procedure, condemned the decision. She emphasized the violation of women’s autonomy and the devastating health consequences associated with FGM.
Despite the ban, the practice remains prevalent. UNICEF reports that 76% of Gambian women aged 15-49 have undergone FGM. The UN defines it as the removal or injury of female genitalia for non-medical reasons, causing infections, bleeding, infertility, and hindering sexual pleasure. The UN and human rights organizations urged Gambia to maintain the ban.
Former dictator Yahya Jammeh outlawed FGM in 2015, but enforcement has been weak. Only two cases have been prosecuted since the ban, with the first conviction happening just last year. The Islamic Council, however, views the practice as an ingrained virtue and pressured the government to reconsider the ban.
The future of FGM in Gambia hangs in the balance. The upcoming committee review will be crucial in determining whether the country protects women’s rights or reverts to a harmful tradition.
