Dr. Isatou Touray was speaking recently during a mass sensitising forum organised by GAMCOTRAP on the health implications of FGM on the wellbeing of women and girls.
She observed that FGM is associated with a lot of negative health implications on the wellbeing of women and girls, saying it also violates the rights of the children and women.
Madam Touray noted that the practice has resulted in many failed marriages, while it continues to harm women's reproductive health.
She therefore urged CRR communities to drop the knives for the development of their communities.
Sainey Mbye, deputy Governor of Central River Region, reminded that the deep-rooted cultural practice was outlawed in The Gambia, saying anyone found wanting may be sent to jail for 3 years or fined fifty thousand dalasis or face both punishments.
Sarjo Barry, a representative from Kuntaur Police Station Child Protection and Welfare Unit, expressed his unit's resolve to protect and safeguard the rights of women and children.
Barry thus called on people especially those local initiators (circumcisers) to desist from it and abide by the laws of the country.
Ebrima Barry, a representative of Janjangbureh Chief advised participants not to circumcise the girl child.
Women and circumcisers, who spoke to our reporter after the training, promised to drop the knife as well as spread the message.
Established in 1984, GAMCOTRAP is committed to campaigning against female genital mutilation, while promoting the health and empowerment for women through community education.
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