By: Sering Mass Jallow
The Network Against Gender-Based Violence (NGBV) has called on the Gambian government to fully enforce the law that outlaws Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
In a statement issued out on Monday 11th August, 2025, the network emphasized that government needed to enforce the Women’s (Amendment) Act 2015. This is the act that bans FGM and the network describes the practice as a deadly threat to girls’ health and dignity.
According to NGBV, the continued occurrence of FGM in the country is a “stark reminder of the deadly consequence of this harmful traditional practice” and urged authorities to adopt a zero-tolerance approach.
The statement says preliminary police investigations in a recent case indicate an infant was allegedly subjected to female circumcision, resulting in severe bleeding and death.
NGBV urged communities to remain vigilant and report suspected cases. It also encouraged religious leaders to speak out against FGM, and while calling on the police to ensure a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation in all such cases to hold perpetrators accountable.