Gambia’s Historic Decision on Female Genital Cutting

Lawmakers in Gambia recently made a significant decision regarding the country’s ban on female genital cutting. Initially moving towards repealing the ban, they ultimately chose to uphold it after a powerful three-month campaign led by women.

Gambia, a small country on the west coast of Africa, had attracted global attention due to the possibility of becoming the first nation to reverse legislation protecting against female genital cutting.

According to Satang Nabaneh, a Gambian legal expert specializing in sexual and reproductive rights, and women’s rights, such a move would have isolated Gambia on the international stage.

During the crucial vote, out of the 53 members of the National Assembly present, 34 voted in favor of retaining the ban, while 19 voted against it. This outcome marked a significant shift from a previous vote in March, where 42 out of 47 members had supported repealing the ban.

Women’s rights activists, who were present at the National Assembly in Banjul, the capital of Gambia, expressed joy and relief at the decision. Their tireless advocacy efforts, including lobbying politicians and raising awareness about the harmful effects of female genital cutting, proved to be successful.

Jaha Dukureh, a prominent campaigner against female genital cutting, emphasized the collective efforts made to ensure the preservation of the law.