News
Gambia Upholds Ban On Female Genital Cutting, But Activists Say Fight Far From Over
Gambia’s lawmakers have rejected a proposal to reverse the country’s ban on female genital cutting (FGC), a centuries-old practice also known as female circumcision. However, activists say the real battle is still ongoing, particularly in rural areas where FGC remains prevalent.
“When I was standing there with a banner, once we got the news that the ban was kept in place, we danced and cried,” said Metta, a mother of six who underwent FGC as a child and now fiercely opposes it.
Despite the ban, an estimated 75% of women in Gambia have undergone FGC, which can cause serious health complications, according to the United Nations. “It’s our culture and it’s also a part of the teaching of the prophet,” said one woman who attended an awareness meeting, defending the practice.
But activists like Habibou Tamba, who attended the rally outside the parliament, disagree. “We will never be subjected to the Western ideology,” said a message he received from a prominent community member. “This is the beginning of the war.”
Tamba says the fight is about women’s rights, not Western values. “I came here because of her,” said Rabietou, a 42-year-old mother of six, cradling her 7-month-old daughter Fatima. “I will not let my daughters go through the same pain as I did.”
The World Health Organization describes FGC as a form of torture, and local activists are determined to break the cycle. “Before, people used to say: If you don’t cut your daughter, she will not listen. She will not have discipline,” said Metta. “But going to the bush and teaching your children discipline are two very different things.”
In a move to strengthen regional stability and provide humanitarian support, Guyana’s National Assembly has approved $123 million (approximately $587,940 USD) for CARICOM nations, Diaspora Watch can report. This decision was made during the 89th Sitting of the National Assembly, where Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting its neighbors in need.
Diaspora Watch was told the funds will primarily support Haiti, which has been plagued by severe gang violence, resulting in over 2,500 people killed or wounded between January and March this year. Recall that the violence has led to a shortage of food, water, and other essential items, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Minister Todd highlighted Guyana’s history of providing support to its Caribbean neighbors, citing the recent example of Hurricane Beryl, which devastated several Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) in the region.
Guyana provided contributions in kind to affected OECS countries, demonstrating its commitment to regional solidarity. The approval of these funds comes on the heels of a recent meeting between Heads of Government of Caribbean nations in Guyana, where they discussed the pressing issues of crime and gang violence in the region. The meeting highlighted the need for collective action to address these challenges, which have resulted in a 154% increase in regional security budgets between 2019 and 2024. In July, Guyana provided its first shipment of relief aid to Grenada, comprising vital items such as generators, water purification tablets, and hygiene products. This donation demonstrates Guyana’s commitment to providing tangible support to its neighbors in need.
Kimma Wreh (CIO, Excel Global Media Group Inc) provided keynote address on Cybersecurity and Data Protection in Africa at the Innovate Africa Conference 2024. The conference was held at George Washington University in Washington DC in September 2024.
To book Kimma, send email to exceltekay@gmail.com or call 832-483-4864.
The Olojo Festival, an ancient and vibrant Yoruba festival, is a grand celebration held annually in Ile-Ife, Nigeria, to honor Ogun, the god of iron and war, and the rich heritage of the Yoruba people. This deeply spiritual festival brings thousands of people together, showcasing traditional customs, colorful attire, music, and rituals that highlight Yoruba history and mythology.
The highlight of the event is the appearance of the Ooni of Ife, who dons the sacred Are Crown, believed to hold immense spiritual power. Through processions, sacrifices, and community gatherings, the Olojo Festival strengthens cultural identity, unites people, and pays homage to the gods. As an enduring celebration of Yoruba pride, it captivates locals and visitors alike, reminding all of the deep cultural legacy of Ile-Ife.
Welcome to the highly anticipated 23rd volume of Diaspora Watch, your indispensable source connecting the vibrant African diaspora around the world! This edition is packed with captivating stories and in-depth analysis.
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