A simple WhatsApp message is becoming a powerful tool in the fight against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in The Gambia's North Bank Region.

Community members, youth leaders, activists, health workers, and law enforcement officers are increasingly using WhatsApp groups to share information, raise awareness, and report suspected cases of girls at risk. In many rural communities, where access to police stations and social welfare offices can be limited, these digital platforms provide a quicker way to seek help.

Community members and activists have also expressed concerns that some families take girls across the border to Senegal to undergo FGM despite the practice being criminalized in The Gambia. WhatsApp groups are helping communities report such concerns and alert relevant authorities.

The use of regional youth group WhatsApp platforms has played an important role in raising awareness about Female Genital Mutilation 

said Pa Moudou Gaye, Chairperson of the North Bank Regional Youth Committee.

 "Through regular sharing of information and discussions, more young people and community members have come to understand the serious health risks and human rights concerns associated with the practice."

According to Gaye, increased awareness is encouraging many families to abandon the practice.

As awareness has increased and FGM has been criminalized, many individuals have openly acknowledged that although the practice existed within their families in the past, they are now committed to ensuring that their daughters and relatives are not subjected to it. 

WhatsApp groups have also become important reporting tools. Community members can quickly alert trusted contacts when they fear a girl may be at risk, allowing activists, child protection officers, and authorities to respond more rapidly.

Youth networks have been particularly effective in spreading information. With more than 100 youth groups across the region, messages from training and awareness programmes can reach communities within minutes.

Beyond youth-led efforts, initiatives such as engagement of men and boys through  Men for Equality (CSO) organization, are helping in challenging harmful gender norms and supporting the rights of women and girls. 

While concerns about privacy, misinformation, and fear of retaliation remain, many advocates believe digital communication platforms are strengthening community efforts to prevent FGM.

For Gaye and other youth leaders, every message shared and every report made represents another step toward a future where girls can grow up free from the threat of FGM.

Media Contact: Malick Saine-Communications Associate (saine@unfpa.org)