Tragic Death of Infant Sparks Urgent Call to End FGM in The Gambia

The Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) has issued a powerful call for justice following the heartbreaking death of a one-month-old baby girl in Wellingara, caused by Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The organization expressed profound sorrow and outrage, condemning the practice as a grave violation of human rights and urging authorities to prosecute those responsible with utmost diligence.

The infant’s death has reignited national outrage over FGM, a practice banned in The Gambia since 2015 under the Women’s (Amendment) Act. Despite the prohibition, FGM persists, causing irreversible physical and psychological harm, and, in this case, a devastating loss of life. The EFSCRJ emphasized that no cultural, religious, or social justification can excuse FGM, describing it as violence and a crime, not a tradition or cultural practice.

The Gambia Police Force has arrested suspects linked to the incident, earning commendation from the EFSCRJ. The organization called for a thorough, impartial, and timely investigation to ensure justice is served and to send a clear message that the lives and rights of girls are non-negotiable. “The death of this baby girl is a national shame,” the EFSCRJ stated, demanding it be the last such tragedy.

In response to the incident, the EFSCRJ issued a multi-pronged call to action. It urged the government to enforce the FGM ban rigorously, allocate resources for investigations and prosecutions, and enhance community education on the practice’s dangers. Religious and traditional leaders were called upon to denounce FGM and protect children, while communities and families were encouraged to reject harmful practices. The EFSCRJ also appealed to civil society and media to amplify awareness and support survivors.

The statement comes amid concerning calls from some quarters to repeal the FGM ban, which the EFSCRJ condemned as a dangerous step backward. “No religion demands FGM, no tradition is worth a child’s life,” the organization declared, emphasizing that the infant’s death should silence advocates of repeal.

The EFSCRJ vowed to stand with survivors and advocates to eradicate FGM, framing 2025 as a year of transparency and accountability. The organization hopes this tragedy will mark a turning point, galvanizing The Gambia to end FGM once and for all.