Lack of DNA Testing Lab for Sexual Offences Hampers FLAG’s Efforts Against SGBV

By Modou L. Badjie

The Female Lawyers Association of The Gambia (FLAG), a key player in addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), faces an enormous challenge in its mission due to the absence of a DNA testing laboratory in the country.

In an interview with Star TV, FLAG’s president, Anna Njie, revealed that the organisation’s efforts to combat SGBV and sexual offenses are hindered by the unavailability of essential forensic resources.

Established in 2006, FLAG has been actively involved in supporting victims of sexual and gender-based violence. Despite receiving support from the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) for capacity-building programs, the association grapples with a crucial issue – the lack of a DNA testing facility.

President Njie emphasised the difficulties faced by victims who report incidents to the police, as they often encounter societal stigma. “The challenges do start with the Victims because if they report it to the police, sometimes they face societal stigma, and we as legal representatives have to push to ensure that matters are properly investigated and prosecuted”.

Legal representatives like FLAG play a crucial role in pushing for thorough investigations and fair prosecutions to ensure justice for survivors.

The absence of DNA testing facilities poses a significant hurdle for FLAG’s longstanding goal of holding perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence accountable for their actions. In addition to impacting victims, the lack of forensic resources also hampers the Gambia Police Force in conducting thorough investigations.

As FLAG strives to address the challenges posed by the absence of a DNA testing laboratory, the need for comprehensive forensic capabilities remains a critical aspect in the fight against sexual offenses and gender-based violence in The Gambia.