25/01/2025
CONTINUEOUS DISCRIMINATION OF NIQABIY WOMEN IN THE GAMBIA.
A country of 95% Muslim, yet their women struggle to enjoy the most basic rights.
Niqabi Students Traumatized as Face Masks Are Seized at Gambia College
Female Niqabi students at the Gambia College School of Nursing and Midwifery have reported being humiliated and traumatized by a face mask ban imposed by administrators. The masks, worn as an alternative to the niqab, were initially allowed but are now prohibited, forcing students to uncover their faces in public.
The controversy dates back to April 2023, when Head of School Mrs. Fatoumatta Bah informed students during orientation that niqabs were not permitted under the dress code but face masks were acceptable. However, by February 2024, Matron Fatou Sonko confronted Jainaba Jagne, demanding she remove her mask in a crowded ward at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH).
“I begged her to let me uncover my face in private because there were men present, but she refused. She humiliated me in public and reported me to the administration,” Jagne said.
Other students have shared similar experiences. Adama Barry recounted an incident in August 2024 when Mrs. Kumba Khan, Head of the Midwifery Department, reprimanded her for wearing a mask and confiscated it. “I felt violated. I couldn’t even step outside without feeling ashamed,” Barry said.
Khadijatou Ceesay and Ya Adam also described being forced to remove their masks and threatened with disciplinary action. “We run away from administrators like we’ve seen Malakul Mawt (Angel of Death),” said Adam.
Despite repeated attempts to reach Mrs. Bah, and Principal of The Gambia College, Mr Abdoulie Jallow, Mrs. for comments, the administration has not responded to emails. The students argue the policy violates Section 25(1)(c) and Section 33(1) of The Gambian Constitution, which guarantee freedom of religion and prohibit discrimination.
~Hamsa reew and Gambian Talents
