Female genital mutilation in the Gambia

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in The Gambia refers to the ritual cutting or removal of some or all of the external female genitalia practiced in The Gambia. This cultural practice, deeply rooted in tradition, has significant social, health, and psychological implications for women and girls. Despite efforts to eradicate FGM, it remains prevalent in various communities within the country.

Overview

FGM involves the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The practice is often carried out by traditional circumcisers, who play other central roles in communities, such as attending childbirths. In The Gambia, FGM is seen by some as a rite of passage into womanhood and is closely associated with cultural, religious, and social factors.

Types of FGM

The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies FGM into four major types:

• Type I – Also known as clitoridectomy, this involves the partial or total removal of the clitoris and, in very rare cases, only the prepuce (the fold of skin surrounding the clitoris).
• Type II – Known as excision, this is the partial or total removal of the clitoris and the labia minora, with or without excision of the labia majora.
• Type III – Referred to as infibulation, this involves the narrowing of the vaginal opening through the creation of a covering seal. The seal is formed by cutting and repositioning the labia minora or labia majora, sometimes through stitching, with or without removal of the clitoris.
• Type IV – This includes all other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes, e.g., pricking, piercing, incising, scraping, and cauterization.

Prevalence and Legal Status

The prevalence of FGM in The Gambia has been a subject of concern. Various reports and studies indicate that a significant proportion of women and girls have undergone the procedure, with variations in prevalence according to ethnicity, region, and education levels. Efforts to combat FGM in The Gambia have led to legal and policy changes. The Gambian government has enacted laws to prohibit FGM, recognizing it as a violation of the rights of women and girls and a serious health risk.

Health Implications

FGM has no health benefits and can cause a range of immediate and long-term health complications. These include severe pain, excessive bleeding, genital tissue swelling, fever, infections, and increased risk of newborn deaths. Long-term consequences can include urinary problems, vaginal problems (such as discharge, itching, bacterial vaginosis, and other infections), menstrual problems, scar tissue and keloid, sexual problems, increased risk of childbirth complications, and psychological impact including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Cultural and Social Aspects

The practice of FGM in The Gambia is deeply entrenched in the social fabric and cultural identity of various communities. It is often considered a prerequisite for marriage, a way to ensure premarital virginity and marital fidelity, and a rite of passage that marks the transition from girlhood to womanhood. Efforts to eradicate FGM have faced challenges due to its cultural significance and the belief in its religious endorsement.

Efforts to Combat FGM

International and local organizations, along with the Gambian government, have been working to eradicate FGM through education, advocacy, and legislation. These efforts include raising awareness about the health risks associated with FGM, promoting alternative rites of passage, and empowering communities to abandon the practice. The enactment of laws banning FGM marks a significant step forward, but enforcement and changing societal attitudes remain challenging.

Conclusion

FGM in The Gambia is a complex issue intertwined with cultural, social, and health dimensions. While significant strides have been made towards its eradication, the practice still persists, necessitating continued efforts to protect the rights and well-being of women and girls.