The Gambia government has vowed to punish anyone practising female genital mutilation (FGM) with “the full force of the law,” following the tragic death of a one-month-old baby girl.

The infant was rushed to Bundung Maternal and Child Health Hospital after suffering severe bleeding and was pronounced dead on arrival. 

Preliminary investigations indicate she had undergone FGM, sparking immediate outrage across the country .

Three women have been charged in the case, one faces life imprisonment as the alleged cutter, while two others, including the child’s mother and aunt, are charged as accomplices.

“FGM remains banned in this country, and anyone found practising the act will face the full force of the law,” Dr Ismaila Ceesay, information minister, warned.

The death marks the first legal action under the 2015 ban to result in serious charges and comes amid renewed attempts by some voices to overturn the ban .

According to UNICEF, between 73% and 75% of Gambian women aged 15–49 have undergone FGM, often in childhood.

By Adama Makasuba