Banjul, Gambia – A legal challenge is underway in The Gambia that could potentially reverse a ban on female genital mutilation (FGM), a practice that continues to inflict lasting physical and psychological trauma on women and girls despite being outlawed since 2015. The case, brought before the Supreme Court, has ignited a fierce debate within the West African nation, pitting advocates for women’s rights against those who argue for the preservation of cultural tradition.
The legal battle centers around a complaint filed by individuals and religious associations seeking to overturn the FGM ban. This follows a previous attempt in 2024, when Parliament rejected a proposal by lawmaker Almameh Gibba to decriminalize the practice, citing the importance of respecting tradition. The current challenge represents a renewed effort to legalize a practice that remains deeply entrenched in Gambian society, despite its devastating consequences for women’s health and well-being. According to UNICEF data from 2020, 73% of Gambian women aged 15 to 49 have undergone FGM, placing the country among the ten nations globally with the highest prevalence rates. Courrier International reports that the case began examination in December and was temporarily paused, but is expected to resume soon.
The Lasting Scars of FGM
The physical and emotional toll of FGM is immense and often lifelong. Fatou Sanyang, a Gambian woman who underwent FGM as a child, describes experiencing chronic pain and discomfort, likening the sensation during intimacy to “pouring boiling water” over herself. Bluewin details her ongoing suffering, highlighting the enduring impact of this harmful practice. Mariama Fatajo, 28, is another survivor who continues to grapple with the physical and psychological consequences of FGM.
FGM encompasses a range of procedures involving the partial or total removal of the clitoris and/or other external genital organs. The practice is often carried out by traditional practitioners, frequently under unsanitary conditions, leading to severe complications such as infections, hemorrhage, chronic pain, difficulties with urination and menstruation, and psychological trauma. Beyond the immediate physical harm, FGM can also have long-term consequences for sexual health, reproductive health, and overall well-being.
A Recent Surge in Concern
The debate surrounding FGM in The Gambia was recently intensified by the deaths of two infants who had undergone the practice in 2025. These tragic incidents sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for stricter enforcement of the existing ban. The fact that these deaths occurred despite the legal prohibition underscores the challenges in eradicating FGM, which remains deeply embedded in cultural norms and traditions in many communities.
The Legal Landscape and Cultural Context
The Gambia’s 2015 ban on FGM was a significant step towards protecting the rights and health of women, and girls. Still, the current legal challenge demonstrates the fragility of this progress and the powerful forces resisting change. The arguments in favor of legalizing FGM often center on the belief that it is an essential part of cultural identity and a prerequisite for social acceptance and marriage. These arguments are increasingly challenged by human rights advocates who emphasize the fundamental right of women and girls to bodily autonomy and freedom from violence.
The Gambia is a predominantly Muslim country, and proponents of FGM often claim that it is sanctioned by Islamic tradition. However, this interpretation is contested by many Islamic scholars who argue that FGM is not a religious requirement and is, in fact, harmful and contrary to Islamic principles. The debate over the religious justification for FGM adds another layer of complexity to the issue.
International Condemnation and Human Rights Concerns
FGM is widely condemned by international human rights organizations and governments as a violation of women’s and girls’ fundamental rights. The practice is recognized as a form of gender-based violence and a form of discrimination against women. International treaties and conventions, such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), call for the elimination of FGM. MSN reports that survivors like Fatou Sanyang continue to live with the trauma of this violence.
The potential reversal of the FGM ban in The Gambia would be a significant setback for efforts to protect the rights of women and girls globally. It would also send a dangerous signal to other countries where FGM is practiced, potentially emboldening those who seek to maintain this harmful tradition. The outcome of the Supreme Court case will have far-reaching implications for the future of FGM in The Gambia and beyond.
What is FGM and Why is it Harmful?
Female genital mutilation (FGM) refers to all procedures involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The practice is rooted in cultural and social norms and is often performed on young girls before they reach puberty. As previously stated, the consequences of FGM are severe and can include immediate health risks such as severe bleeding, infection, and shock, as well as long-term complications such as chronic pain, difficulties with urination and menstruation, sexual dysfunction, and psychological trauma.
The Role of Tradition and Religion
Although proponents of FGM often cite tradition and religion as justification for the practice, these arguments are increasingly challenged. Many cultures and religions do not endorse FGM, and the practice is often associated with social control and the suppression of women’s sexuality. Efforts to eliminate FGM require addressing the underlying social and cultural norms that perpetuate it, as well as challenging harmful interpretations of religious texts.
What Happens Next?
The Supreme Court of The Gambia is expected to resume its examination of the case challenging the FGM ban in the coming weeks. The court’s decision will be pivotal in determining the future of FGM in the country. Regardless of the outcome, the fight to protect the rights and health of women and girls in The Gambia will continue. Advocates are calling for increased awareness-raising, education, and enforcement of laws to prevent FGM and support survivors.
This is a developing story, and World Today Journal will continue to provide updates as they turn into available. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and perspectives on this important issue in the comments below.