In The Gambia, a group of courageous mothers are standing up against the push to lift the ban on female genital mutilation (FGM). Their unwavering commitment to protecting their daughters from this harmful practice is evident in their resolute declaration, “Over my needless body.” This article explores the intricate dynamics at play as these mothers challenge tradition and resist efforts to undermine the progress made in the fight against FGM.
Fatou*, a resident of Bundung, vividly recalls her own experience of undergoing FGM at a young age. Determined to spare her daughter from the same fate, she shares the physical and emotional trauma she endured. Her marriage suffered as a result of FGM, making it difficult to consummate and leading to complications during childbirth. Supported by her husband, Fatou is resolute in breaking the cycle of suffering.
Sarata*, another mother from Brufut, experienced similar hardships due to FGM. The practice not only made childbirth challenging but also resulted in the tragic loss of her husband. Left to raise her daughters alone, Sarata is determined to protect them from the repercussions of FGM. Despite facing adversity, she remains steadfast in her resolve to safeguard her children’s well-being.
The Gambian parliament passed the Women’s (Amendment) Act of 2015, criminalizing FGM and imposing penalties for offenders. However, a recent vote to repeal this landmark ban has sparked controversy. Advocates of the repeal argue that it upholds cultural and religious practices, while rights organizations warn of the detrimental impact on human rights.
Organizations like Think Young Women (TYW) have been at the forefront of the fight against FGM, advocating for the preservation of the ban. TYW’s efforts to raise awareness and empower youth advocates have been instrumental in combating FGM. The proposed repeal of the ban is viewed as a betrayal of women and girls, exposing them to grave risks and endangering their physical and mental well-being.
Tabou Njie Sarr, the Women’s Rights Manager at Action Back, is a staunch advocate for maintaining the ban on FGM. She emphasizes the critical role of the ban in protecting girls and women from harmful practices and human rights violations. Sarr underscores the importance of education in eradicating FGM, highlighting the dangers posed by untrained circumcisers and the lasting impact on sexual and reproductive health.
the fight against FGM in The Gambia is far from over. The determination of mothers like Fatou and Sarata, as well as the advocacy efforts of organizations like TYW and Action Back, are crucial in safeguarding the rights and well-being of women and girls. Upholding the ban on FGM is essential to protect future generations from the harms of this outdated practice.Campaigning for FGM Awareness in The Gambia
Men’s Role in Combatting FGM
Advocates for total consciousness campaigns stress the importance of educating men, who often play a significant role in decision-making within households, about the severe consequences of FGM. Sarr expressed concern about the lack of awareness among some men, including National Assembly members who support repealing the FGM laws due to their ignorance of the harmful effects.
Lamin Ceesay, a National Assembly member representing a constituency where FGM is prevalent, is among those pushing for the repeal of the ban on religious and constitutional grounds. When questioned about prioritizing religion over the lived experiences of countless girls affected by FGM, Ceesay demanded evidence to support claims of harm from the practice, emphasizing the need for statistics to assess its impact.
The Secret Practice of FGM
The Gambia’s Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare issued a press release highlighting the country’s progress in combating FGM since the 1980s. Despite government support for the ban, private individuals are allowed to introduce a bill through the parliamentary process, emphasizing the country’s commitment to democratic values and the rule of law.
However, despite efforts to eradicate the practice, FGM still affects 73 percent of girls aged 15-49 in the country, indicating ongoing challenges. Even after the implementation of the 2015 law, FGM continues clandestinely, causing ongoing suffering for victims like Sarjo and her daughter.
Sarjo’s Heartbreaking Story
Sarjo, a single mother from Brikama, vowed to protect her daughter from FGM, only to discover that her daughter had been circumcised without her consent by her paternal grandmother. Sarjo’s daughter suffered in silence until an infection revealed the truth, leaving Sarjo feeling betrayed by the justice system when her case was not taken seriously. Despite the pain and betrayal, Sarjo continues to advocate against FGM, urging other mothers to refrain from subjecting their daughters to this harmful practice.
Support for FGM Despite the Ban
In a significant development, three women were fined for performing FGM on eight young girls, marking the first convictions under the anti-FGM laws. Imam Abdoulie Fatty, a prominent Islamic leader in The Gambia, sparked controversy by paying the fines for the convicted women, including the circumciser, in a village where FGM is prevalent, despite the ban.
Imam Fatty’s public support for FGM has outraged women’s rights advocates and anti-FGM campaigners, reigniting debates about the practice’s place in Islamic tradition. His actions have underscored the ongoing struggle to eliminate FGM, despite legislative efforts to criminalize it.
The Future for Gambian Women
Following a recent vote to reconsider the FGM ban, the bill has been sent to a parliamentary committee for further review. Stakeholders will be consulted, public input gathered, and expert opinions sought from relevant ministries before the law undergoes amendments and faces another vote, a process that may take weeks or months.
While the Gambia Bar Association strongly opposes the proposed repeal of the 2015 law, rights activists and survivors of FGM remain apprehensive about the future. Concerns about safeguarding the rights of women and girls persist, with the potential repeal of the law casting a shadow over the future of Gambian women and girls.
In the midst of uncertainty, individuals like Fatou and Sarata dream of an environment where their daughters can thrive without fear. The fight to preserve the ban on FGM continues, driven by the hope for a brighter and safer future for Gambian girls.The bond between a mother and her children is unbreakable, as one mother expressed, “They are my heart, my soul.” This sentiment captures the deep connection and love that exists within a family unit.
Family dynamics are complex and unique to each individual unit. The relationships between parents and children, siblings, and extended family members all play a role in shaping a person’s identity and sense of belonging.
Parenting is a challenging yet rewarding journey that requires patience, understanding, and unconditional love. It involves guiding and nurturing children as they navigate through life’s ups and downs, helping them develop into independent and responsible individuals.
Siblings share a special bond that is characterized by love, rivalry, and companionship. Growing up together, siblings learn valuable lessons in communication, conflict resolution, and cooperation, which prepare them for future relationships.
Extended family members, such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, also play a significant role in a person’s life. They provide additional support, wisdom, and love, enriching the family experience and creating lasting memories.
In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining strong family connections is more important than ever. Research shows that strong family bonds can have a positive impact on mental health, emotional well-being, and overall life satisfaction.
Despite the challenges and obstacles that families may face, the love and support of family members can help individuals overcome adversity and build resilience. By prioritizing family relationships and communication, families can create a strong foundation for personal growth and happiness.
family is the heart and soul of a person’s life. The love, support, and connections shared among family members are invaluable and contribute to a sense of belonging and fulfillment. By nurturing and cherishing these relationships, individuals can navigate life’s challenges with strength and resilience.