In 2025, FGM remains a persistent practice in The Gambia, despite being banned since 2015. The parliamentary debate over the anti-FGM law in 2024 highlighted the ongoing challenges. When a private member’s bill sought to repeal the existing law, 30 out of 65 members of parliament voted to maintain the anti-FGM law in the country.  

The Gambia Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children has been at the forefront of combating FGM through a multifaceted approach. Their three-decade-long efforts focus on culturally sensitive strategies that challenge harmful practices while respecting community dynamics. Key initiatives include community-based surveillance, where regional coordinators monitor and prevent FGM cases. In a recent success, five out of eight girls were saved from undergoing FGM in the Central River Region.

Dr. Isatou Touray, Executive Director of GAMCOTRAP powerfully states, “The fight against FGM is not just the responsibility of women, it requires the collective effort of all stakeholders, including men, policymakers, traditional leaders, and the global community.” The organisation employs comprehensive strategies such as engaging traditional and religious leaders, empowering youth and men as allies, and providing alternative employment for ex-circumcisers. Their work extends beyond immediate intervention to systemic change through policy advocacy and rights education

Key Learnings and Insights

A key lesson for GAMCOTRAP in their efforts to end the persistence of FGM in Gambia is that sustainable change requires holistic community involvement. When women and girls understand their rights and the risks associated with FGM, they become powerful agents of change. The approach combines legal frameworks, social mobilization, and economic empowerment to create lasting impact.

Notably, the fight against FGM is no longer seen as solely a women’s issue. Men, youth, and community leaders are increasingly recognised as crucial allies in challenging harmful traditions while respecting cultural values.

Support Needed to Accelerate Change

To accelerate FGM elimination, a coordinated approach is essential. This includes:

• Systematic engagement of community structures
• Survivor-led programs challenging gender norms
• Increased funding for grassroots organizations
• Sustainable financial support for prevention programs

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The contents of this article are from GAMCOTRAP, an AWDF grantee partner in The Gambia, supported  under the Komboa Initiative