By Fatoumatta j Camara
The Gambia Committee on Traditional Practices affecting the health of women and children (GAMCOTRAP) Tuesday 9th November organized a ‘’policy dialogue on upholding the FGM law’’ to protect the girl child at the Bakadaji Hotel in Senegambia.
The dialogue brought together former female circumcisers from across the regions, Chiefs, National Assembly Members among other stakeholders.
Dr. Isatou Touray, the Director of GAMCOTRAP addressing the gathering said the purpose was to continue working closely with key partners in safeguarding the rights of children, particularly the girl child through the effective implementation of the FGM law. According to her, the anti FGM law is facing the threat of being repealed by some religious leaders and national assembly members. Therefore, to respond to this situation GAMCOTRAP and partners are working to build on the momentum to serve as an immediate strategic response to the current situation so that the law will be uphold.
However, she added that the law banning FGM stands as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a future where every girl child can grow up free from the shadows of fear and pain. ‘’It represents not just legislation but a pledge to safeguard the innocence and dreams of our daughters. Upholding this is our collective promise to the girl child an affirmation that her rights are non-negotiable, her dignity inviolable, and her future limitless.’’ This, Dr. Touraystresses, is the Gambia she envisions.
However, she called for multi-faceted approach through education, both formal and informal. ‘’This is our most important vehicle for behavioral change and development. We must educate parents, community leaders, and young people about the physical and psychological ramifications of FGM,’’ she added.
This has happened over the years resulting in a call to enact a law by the population. Additionally, equally essential is the engagement of those endowed with knowledge to engage and create awareness and using their influence to catalyze positive and progressive change. ‘’We must encourage using their platforms to challenge harmful practices and advocate for wellbeing of our girls.’’
The regional director of health services, Musa Camara, speaking on behalf of the Health Ministry, pointed out that sexual and reproductive health rights of women and girls needed to be protected and for improved health and wellbeing. Quoting the Greek proverb; of ‘’mens sana in corpore sano’’ meaning a healthy mind in a healthy body can be successfully attained if human body is free from injuries and disease organisms. This will have direct impacts on productivity, per capita income and socioeconomic development of any nation.
Health effects of FGM included but not limited to: it has no health benefits for women and girls, loss of blood due to severe bleeding and complications during child birth with increased tendencies of new born deaths.
Other speakers include: Ousman Touray a board member of GAMCOTRAP and Yadicon NjieEribo the Chairperson of TANGO.
