Breaking the Cycle: The Complex Story of Female Genital Mutilation in The Gambia
In a quiet village in The Gambia, where the golden hues of the sunset illuminate the mud brick houses, a centuries-old practice continues to weave itself into the fabric of community life—a reality that challenges the very definition of progress and tradition. Despite a national ban on female genital mutilation (FGM) instituted back in 2015, this practice endures. It’s driven by mothers and older women, the very custodians of cultural heritage, who uphold a tradition that many consider essential for a girl’s coming-of-age.
The Paradox of Tradition and Modernity
Imagine a mother, standing in her humble kitchen, deeply torn between two worlds: the one that fosters an ever-evolving view on women’s rights and empowerment, and the one that venerates the traditions that have underpinned generations of Gambian families. According to recent surveys, more than half of mothers with young daughters declare that they have not subjected their children to FGM, an encouraging statistic that seems to point towards change. Yet, the reality remains stark, as numerous girls still experience this painful transition into womanhood before they even celebrate their first birthday.
Among those who still practice FGM is Hulay Damba, a former practitioner who learned her craft from her grandmother. “It is a duty passed down to us,” Hulay explains, her voice thick with emotion. “We believe it is what our daughters need to be accepted in society.” This deeply ingrained sense of duty creates a cycle of enforcement that echoes across generations, fueling the myth that to be a ‘proper’ woman, a girl must undergo this painful procedure.
The Voices of Change
Amidst this daunting reality, voices advocating for change are beginning to emerge, albeit timidly. Fatou Baldeh, from Women in Liberation and Leadership, encapsulates the struggle many women face. “Women are both victims and enforcers of this violence rooted in gender inequality,” she states emphatically. The reality that women play both roles complicates the narrative—a reflection of the insidious nature of patriarchy that binds them to these traditions.
But change is possible, Fatou insists, if the very structures that perpetuate these traditions can be dismantled. “We need education, dialogue, and support for women,” she urges, emphasizing that this isn’t just a women’s issue; it’s a community challenge that requires a collective response.
A New Generation’s Perspective
The individual stories behind the statistics tell a richer tale. Take Aissatou, a bright-eyed teenager whose laughter fills the air as she plays with her younger sister. “I do not want to go through what my mother did,” she confides, her brow furrowed with concern. “I believe there is another way to become a woman.” Aissatou’s perspective represents a burgeoning sense of autonomy among the youth, coupled with an understanding of the cultural implications of female genital mutilation. As new narratives take shape, the question arises: how can communities transition from fear of ostracization to embracing alternatives?
Local and Global Perspectives
The conversation around FGM in The Gambia finds resonance far beyond its borders. In 2019, the United Nations emphasized the importance of eradicating FGM globally, citing alarming statistics that show an estimated 200 million women and girls worldwide have undergone the procedure. The call for action is not only a plea for women’s rights but also a challenge to break down the cultural barriers that allow such practices to persist.
This global perspective contrasts sharply with the local realities in The Gambia, revealing a complex interplay of tradition, belief, and modernity. While international campaigns have had an impact, embracing local voices and leaders in the fight against FGM may be the key to genuine and lasting change.
Steps Forward: Fostering Dialogue and Community Engagement
Efforts to combat FGM necessitate sensitive community engagement. Organizations are increasingly turning to local champions, such as Aissatou, to lead initiatives aimed at educating families about the detrimental effects of FGM. Workshops and forums serve as platforms for dialogue, allowing community members to share their concerns, fears, and aspirations.
This engagement is crucial, as it creates a safe space for women to voice their opinions freely, often revealing a desire to break away from harmful practices. But how do you change the mindsets that have been shaped over centuries? It begins with storytelling—narratives that honor tradition while advocating for the health and well-being of girls.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
In a world that often prioritizes progress at the expense of cultural identity, The Gambia stands at a crossroads. Will it uphold traditions that inflict pain or embrace a new narrative that champions the rights, health, and happiness of its daughters? The women of The Gambia—the mothers, the daughters, the advocates—are all part of this evolving story. And as they navigate this complex terrain, the world watches with anticipation, hoping for a transformation that honors both culture and humanity.
What role do you think local and global communities should play in eradicating practices like FGM? How can we approach these conversations with both empathy and urgency? The answers may hold the key to a brighter future for generations of Gambian women.
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
