Three Women Charged in Connection with Infant’s Death Allegedly Linked to FGM

By Makutu Manneh

The Gambia Police Force (GPF) has formally charged three women in connection with the death of a one-month-old baby girl in Willingara, an incident allegedly linked to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

The tragic event, which occurred on August 10, 2025, has sparked public outrage and prompted swift action by Gambian authorities.

Fatou Camara, the primary accused, faces charges under Section 32A of the Women’s (Amendment) Act, 2015, which prohibits female circumcision and carries a penalty of life imprisonment. She has been remanded in custody by Magistrate Sambou at Brikama Magistrates’ Court.

The second and third accused, Oumie Sawaneh and Hawa Conteh, have been charged under Section 32B of the Act, which addresses individuals who aid or abet female circumcision. Both were granted bail, as the offence under this provision is bailable.

In a statement, the GPF emphasized its commitment to protecting vulnerable members of society and urged the public to report any harmful traditional practices to the nearest police station.

Despite being outlawed, FGM continues to pose a significant challenge in The Gambia, with some communities persisting in the practice.