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She made the statement at a one-day consultation for Gambian creative artists at the GAMCOTRAP Kanifing office on Thursday, aimed at engaging them in the democratic process to bring about appropriate changes to the harmful effects of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
The consultation at the forum, organized by GAMCOTRAP and supported by the Wallace Global Foundation, aims to help artistes further spread the message through songs to discourage FGM. It is believed that the artistes’ songs will also help raise awareness about FGM in the country.
The theme of the training was: “Discuss with local artists the current laws and the impact of FGM on the sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) of women and girls.”
More than 35 female and male artists participated in the presentations, which covered topics such as the impact of FGM on sexual and reproductive health, the impact of FGM and religious misconceptions on the SRHR of women and girls, and the importance and role of artists in promoting human rights.
Dr. Touré, speaking at the opening ceremony, said that artists play a vital role in society and have a huge influence. She added that GAMCOTRAP has been operating for many years and this time they decided to include artists in the democratic process regarding the laws and impacts of FGM.
She stressed that women had undergone FGM and they were aware or aware of the negative impacts it had on women’s health.
She also said that many women accept the practice of FGM because they think it is part of religion or related to religion, “but in fact, it is just a traditional custom.”
“We call on all artists in the industry to join the fight against FGM,” she urged.
“We can only be free through education, respect, dignity, peace and tolerance. You artists have the power to shape the hearts and minds of the people.”
Imam Baba Li also commented on the matter and said that the practice of female genital mutilation has nothing to do with religion.
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