SERREKUNDA, GAMBIA — Recent discussions about overturning the ban on female genital cutting in Gambia have taken an unexpected turn, sparking a broader conversation about women’s sexual pleasure in the conservative West African nation.
While efforts to repeal the ban were unsuccessful, the debate opened up space for a dialogue that had long been silenced. Women are now openly discussing topics like sexual autonomy and pleasure, with some embracing tools like sex toys, while men are becoming more aware of the importance of foreplay in relationships.
Fatoumata Sanneh, a 28-year-old activist with Women in Liberation and Leadership, has been at the forefront of these discussions. Leading workshops in rural areas such as Bwiam, she works to dispel myths surrounding female genital cutting and its impact on women. Sanneh emphasizes that every woman’s experience is unique, advocating for respect and acknowledgment of individual truths.
The ongoing conversation marks a cultural shift in a society where discussions about sexuality are often considered taboo. This change highlights the resilience of women advocating for their rights and redefining their narratives in a challenging social landscape.
