In a significant victory for women's rights, The Gambia has turned down an attempt to reverse the ban on female genital mutilation (FGM). The practice, considered a violation of human rights by the World Health Organization (WHO), involves the damaging or removal of parts of the female genitalia and has caused physical harm and psychological trauma to millions worldwide.

The Gambia initially banned FGM in 2015, joining dozens of other nations in putting an end to the harmful practice. However, conservative clerics in the West African nation spearheaded an endeavor last summer to overturn the ban, sparking a heated debate on the issue.

On Monday, a crowd gathered outside the National Assembly, anxiously awaiting the outcome of the vote. The atmosphere grew tense until the moment of truth arrived. To the relief of activists like Absa Samba, who herself experienced FGM at a young age, lawmakers voted 34 to 19 against reversing the ban, making female genital mutilation illegal in The Gambia.

Samba expressed immense relief, underscoring her belief that FGM undermines the dignity and well-being of women, emphasizing that it is a tool used to control the bodies of women. The rejection of the repeal bill represents a significant milestone for Gambia's efforts to eradicate the pervasive practice.

However, the fight is far from over. According to the United Nations Children's Fund, more than 230 million women and girls globally have undergone FGM, with Gambia facing one of the highest rates. The government's Demographic and Health Survey indicates that a staggering 73% of women aged 19 to 49 in the country have experienced the procedure, with cases of the vaginal opening being sewn almost entirely shut. Disturbingly, the majority of these procedures occur before a girl's fifth birthday.

The contentious nature of FGM is further exacerbated by religious leaders who argue that the practice is intrinsic to being a Muslim. This assertion is challenged by many scholars of Islam who oppose FGM. Imam Abdoulie Fatty, a vocal advocate for FGM, led a group of men who defiantly marched down the street after the vote, vowing that genital cutting would continue despite its illegality.

Judy Gitau, from the nonprofit organization Equity Now, recognizes the international significance of The Gambia's decision. Nearby countries such as Sierra Leone and Liberia are in ongoing discussions regarding the potential implementation of a ban on FGM. Gitau believes this week's vote sends a strong message, but emphasizes the need for increased enforcement of the law in a country where the practice remains deeply entrenched.

Rose Sarr, the country representative for the United Nations Population Fund, acknowledges the long journey ahead in changing cultural norms and behaviors associated with FGM. However, she finds hope in the fact that 47% of Gambian women now believe the practice should end, as revealed in the latest government survey.

The silver lining of the past year's divisive debate is that it has brought the issue of FGM into the open. Previously, suffering in silence was the norm for Gambian women. Now, with increased awareness and growing opposition to FGM, there is optimism that progress will be made in the fight against this harmful practice.

The rejection of the bid to legalize female genital mutilation in The Gambia stands as a testament to the resilience of women's rights advocates and the power of public discourse in bringing about change.