Infant dies after suspected female genital mutilation in Gambia

Police in Gambia are investigating the death of a one-month-old girl, suspected to have died as a result of female genital mutilation (FGM).

According to a police statement, preliminary findings indicate the infant was allegedly circumcised and later suffered severe bleeding.

She was taken to a hospital in Wellingara on Sunday, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.

Two women have been arrested in connection with the case, while a detailed investigation into the cause of death is ongoing.

FGM has been outlawed in The Gambia since 2015.

The practice, which involves the partial or total removal of the labia and clitoris for non-medical reasons, is often performed without anaesthetic using razor blades or knives.

It is deeply rooted in cultural beliefs around sexual purity and patriarchal control.

Globally, FGM is recognised as a human rights violation.

Despite being banned in about 60% of the 94 countries where it is practised, it persists in many communities, often carried out by traditional healers outside medical facilities.

The incident has sparked public outrage in The Gambia, with human rights advocates urging the government to strengthen enforcement of the anti-FGM law.