No Excuse, No Exception: Ending Female Genital Mutilation in The Gambia

As we observe the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to protect the life, health, dignity, and rights of every girl and woman in The Gambia.

Female genital mutilation (FGM) remains a serious concern. Despite the important progress made through the Women’s Amendment Act of 2015, this harmful practice continues to affect too many families and communities. For the girls who experience it, and for the women who live with its consequences, FGM brings lasting physical and psychological harm. This reality calls for renewed and sustained collective action.

According to 2019-2020 DHS more than three quarters of Gambian women aged 15 to 49 have undergone FGM. Behind these figures are individuals whose lives have been shaped by pain, health complications, distress and trauma which unfortunately, is still present in our communities today.  In 2026 alone, 21,198 girls are at risk of FGM, with the number accumulating to 150,415 by 2030.  Not long ago, in 2025, two babies have tragically died as a consequence of FGM. 

These are our daughters, sisters, neighbors, and friends. This is not just numbers nor does it show an abstract issue. It actually represents the lives of women and girls we have made promises to protect, empower and to live fulfilled lives.               

Research has confirmed there is absolutely no medical or any other kind of benefit,       associated with FGM. Instead, it carries significant risks, including severe bleeding, infection, complications during childbirth, long-term emotional distress and even death. Women and girls in The Gambia and beyond have guaranteed  rights from global, regional and national laws to bodily autonomy, safety, and the opportunity to reach her full potential.

As we battle with significant threats and challenges to registered gains in protecting women and girls, it is of paramount importance to recognize the highly important roles played by key stakeholders including traditional leaders, civil society organizations, religious authorities, health workers, parents and young people who have put in concerted efforts working toward abandonment of FGM in The Gambia. Their courage and commitment commend strong recognition and require our continued support.

Culture is dynamic. Across human history, societies have evolved by letting go or banning nefarious practices that do not serve the wellbeing of their people. Protecting girls from harm is fully compatible with Gambian values of care, dignity, and community solidarity.

The Government of The Gambia demonstrated its leadership in 2015 by enacting legislation to prohibit and penalize FGM. Moving forward, continued and concerted efforts are needed to strengthen implementation, expand awareness, support survivors, and ensure that communities are fully engaged in prevention and shifting social norms on harmful practices. Laws are the foundation but are most effective when they are accompanied by education, dialogue, and locally driven solutions. In addition, the effectiveness of the law is mostly felt, when it is fully applied and FGM perpetrators       brought to justice      . 

Equally, men are our important allies and have an important role to play. Fathers, brothers, husbands, uncles and community leaders can help create environments where girls are protected, respected, and where families feel supported and empowered to say ‘no’ to FGM. 

Communities also play a central role. Mothers who decide not to subject their daughters to FGM should be empowered, encouraged and respected. Particularly grandmothers have a role to play in the fight against FGM as they are an important pillar of the circle of trust. Survivors who share their experiences should be met with compassion and care. Young girls who are at risk should be supported to build their agencies and bodily autonomy, comprehensive health services, psychosocial support, and safe spaces are essential components of healing and ending FGM.

Furthermore, education remains one of our strongest tools. Girls who stay in school, understand their rights, and have access to economic opportunities are better equipped to make informed choices for themselves and for future generations. Investing in girls is investing in the nation’s sustainable development. They, and only then, have the rights to their own body. Their bodies, theirs rights!

The United Nations (UN) in The Gambia stands ready to continue supporting the ongoing national efforts. Together with the Government, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and communities. The UN works to strengthen prevention, strengthen health systems, consolidate access to quality and inclusive education, improve survivor services, and amplify positive voices advocating for change.

Ultimately, sustainable progress must be driven from within. Ending FGM requires collective ownership and shared commitment. It requires open dialogue, mutual respect, rule of law, access to justice, democracy and a focus on the wellbeing of women and  girls

I strongly believe in a Gambia where every girl grows up healthy and empowered, where her body is respected, and where her future is shaped by opportunity rather than harm. This vision is achievable. The girls of the Gambia must be able to learn, lead, decide and thrive.

On this International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, I invite everyone to continue this important journey together. Let us talk openly, support one another, uphold the law, and protect the most vulnerable among us.

Female genital mutilation is a violence against women and girls. It is a crime and a grave violation of human rights that has scarred generations of Gambian girls and women, and it must end. Gambian faith and values do not promote harm, and we need to uphold that.

Zero tolerance is not about blame. It is about care. It is about responsibility. It is about ensuring that every girl can grow up safe, confident, empowered, and free.

The choices we make today will define the future of Gambian girls. Let us choose protection, dignity, and hope.