Government Pledges Stronger Action to Protect Children Following Death of Infant Allegedly Linked to FGM

By Makutu Manneh

The Government of The Gambia has expressed its condolences to the family of a one-month-old baby who allegedly died as a result of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and has vowed to intensify efforts to prevent similar tragedies.

In a statement issued through the Ministry of Information, Media, and Broadcasting Services, the government described the incident as a wake-up call, stressing that safeguarding children is a shared national responsibility.

Reaffirming its commitment to creating a safe and nurturing environment for all children, the government pledged to use all legal mechanisms to combat harmful traditional practices and protect minors from abuse and exploitation.

“The Government of The Gambia categorically condemns this tragic and entirely preventable death. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of Female Genital Mutilation, which has been illegal in The Gambia since the enactment of the Women (Amendment) Act 2015,” the release stated.

“The Government hereby issues this strong warning to all citizens: Female Genital Mutilation remains a serious criminal offense under Gambian law, punishable by imprisonment,” the statement read.

The government further warned that FGM remains a serious criminal offense under Gambian law, punishable by imprisonment, and promised to enforce the law without exception. It vowed to prosecute anyone involved in performing, facilitating, or allowing FGM and to continue working with communities to end the practice through education and awareness campaigns.

Authorities also called on citizens, community leaders, religious figures, and traditional authorities to respect and uphold the national ban on FGM in order to protect the rights and safety of Gambian women and girls.