Youth Leader Condemns ‘Sealing’ but Supports Circumcision in FGM Debate

In a deeply polarising intervention in The Gambia’s ongoing debate on female genital mutilation (FGM), Kiang East District Youth Chairperson Kutubo Kassama has condemned the most severe form of the practice—commonly known as “sealing”—while expressing support for what he describes as “circumcision.”

His remarks reflect a growing but controversial narrative among some community voices seeking a middle ground between cultural traditions and human rights concerns in a country where FGM remains highly prevalent.

More than 73 per cent of girls and women aged 15 to 49 in The Gambia have already undergone the practice, many before the age of five.

Speaking during an interview in March 2026, Kassama was unequivocal in his rejection of “sealing,” also known as infibulation, describing it as harmful and unacceptable.

“Sealing is completely bad and should not be encouraged in any way. Women who go through it face a lot of challenges, especially in the early days of marriage,” he said.

However, despite acknowledging the harmful effects of FGM, Kassama maintained that a less severe form—what he referred to as circumcision—should still be allowed, citing religious beliefs.

“According to my understanding, FGM has some religious obligation. Despite research showing it is harmful, I still advocate that it should be practised without sealing,” he stated.

A Controversial Middle Ground

Kassama’s position comes at a time when The Gambia remains sharply divided over the 2015 ban on FGM under the Women’s (Amendment) Act.

While awareness of the law is high, the practice continues, often in secrecy.

Data also shows that 44% of women still believe the practice should continue, highlighting the deep-rooted cultural and social norms sustaining it.

Critics argue that distinguishing between “sealing” and other forms of cutting risks legitimising a practice widely condemned as a violation of human rights.

Law versus Belief

Despite his personal stance, Kassama acknowledged the authority of the law and urged compliance within his community.

“I am aware that the law bans FGM, and people should respect it. Those who still practice it secretly should stop,” he said.

His comments reflect a broader contradiction seen in national data: although support for FGM has declined over time—from about 65% in 2013 to around 45% in recent years—the practice itself remains widespread.

He also revealed that his own daughter has not undergone FGM, noting that the only known circumciser in his community has abandoned the practice.

“There is no one currently carrying it out,” he added.

Understanding ‘Sealing’ and the Scale of the Practice

“Sealing,” medically referred to as Type III FGM (infibulation), is the most severe form of the practice.

The procedure is mainly performed by traditional practitioners—over 95% of cases—rather than medical professionals.

Health experts warn that all forms of FGM, including so-called “milder” cutting, can lead to lifelong complications such as infections, childbirth difficulties, and psychological trauma.

Ongoing Debate

Kassama’s remarks highlight the complexity of the FGM debate in The Gambia, where legal frameworks, cultural beliefs, and religious interpretations continue to collide.

While some see compromise as a way forward, many activists insist that any form of FGM—regardless of severity—remains harmful and unacceptable.

As the country continues to grapple with the issue, statistics suggest that progress is slow and uneven, underscoring the urgent need for sustained community engagement, education, and stronger enforcement of the law.

This story is part of the “Breaking the Silence: Voices of FGM Survivors" podcast funded by the Foundation for Women's Health, Research and Development (FORWARD UK).

Author: Nelson Manneh

PC: AI-Generated