Outrage as baby dies after genital mutilation in The Gambia
Summary
A one-month-old baby girl in The Gambia died after reportedly undergoing female genital mutilation (FGM), sparking public anger. Although FGM is illegal in the country, it is still practiced, and the death has led to the arrest of two women. Many people are calling for strengthened efforts to protect children from harmful cultural practices.Key Facts
- A baby girl died in The Gambia, and the cause of her death is suspected to be related to FGM.
- FGM is a practice where a female's external genitalia is deliberately altered or removed, and it is illegal in The Gambia.
- The Gambia ranks among the highest in FGM rates, with 73% of women and girls aged 15 to 49 having undergone the procedure.
- Two women were arrested in connection with the baby girl's death.
- Laws in The Gambia impose fines and jail terms for FGM, with life sentences if the procedure results in death.
- Efforts to re-legalize FGM in The Gambia failed last year as the parliament rejected a proposal.
- The procedure is often performed on young girls, sometimes secretly, to avoid legal consequences.
- Public figures and organizations are calling for stronger measures to protect children from FGM.
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