In a statement released recently, the youth organization expressed delight in joining the rest of the country in commendation of the recent conviction of three women for practicing Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in a rural district of the country.
The move, the release added, is a significant milestone in the fight against FGM in The Gambia, as the first conviction since the enactment of the law.”
“As an organization that advocates for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, we recognize the harmful effects of FGM on the physical and mental health of women and girls.”
The statement further added: “We believe that this conviction will serve as a strong deterrent to those who still practice FGM despite the strong efforts led by government, civil society organizations and development partners against it.”
Nonetheless, the youth parliament expressed concern with religious leaders supporting the practice in the country, to the extent of paying the fine of convicts and having audio messages in circulation against the laws of The Gambia.”
They thus called on all stakeholders, including religious and traditional leaders, to support the ban on FGM and work towards eliminating this harmful practice.
They equally urge the government to continue its efforts to ensure the effective enforcement of the ban on FGM.
“The National Youth Parliament of The Gambia remains committed to advocating for the rights of women and girls and promoting their health and well-being. We will continue to work with our partners to create awareness and promote behavior change towards ending FM in The Gambia.”
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