Network against Gender Based Violence NGBV in collaboration with Action Aid- the Gambia and Child Fund has commenced observing ‘16 day activism’ aim at harmonizing efforts towards ending violence and discrimination against women and girls in The Gambia.
It is to reflect on the core principles of the transformation of 2030 agenda for sustainable development and reinforces the commitment of United Nations women campaign to free world violence for women and girls.
In her remarks the national coordinator for NGBV, Haddy Mboge Barrow described violence against women and girls as ‘grave human rights violation’, saying physical, sexual, psychological and emotional violence are the worst forms of violence.
According to her, the most common form of gender based violence in the country is the practice of Female Genital Mutilation.
The Gambia criminalizes Female Genital Mutilation in 2015 by the ex-president Jammeh but still stand at 75% according to Gambia Demography Health Survey of 2013.
She said her network has registered a staggering case of one thousand five hundreds and seventy six reported cases, adding 41% are sexual violence, but assured her network commitment to the crusade in ending violence against women and girls.
“We will advocate for changes in the policies and enforcement of laws to promote gender equality, equity and address sexual violence across the country,” she said.
Both Fallu Sowe and Nfamara Fofana, officials at NGBV echoed similar remarks.
Author: Sulayman Waan & Fatoumatta Gassama
