Fatou Tamba, a 36-year-old Gambian woman, has lived in the UK for 18 years, including eight years in Liverpool. She is scheduled for deportation to The Gambia on April 21, 2025. Her supporters, including family, healthcare professionals, and community members, have launched an urgent petition to halt the deportation, citing serious risks to her safety and well-being.
Background and Risk Factors
Fatou arrived in the UK as an international student and later sought asylum after her father arranged her marriage to an older man in The Gambia. This man insisted on subjecting her to female genital mutilation (FGM), a practice still prevalent despite being illegal in The Gambia. Fatou’s asylum claim was rejected twice, and she is now applying for a judicial review.
In detention, Fatou has experienced deteriorating mental health, inadequate medical care, and harsh conditions. Her supporters fear that deportation would expose her to further harm, including potential forced marriage and FGM.
Community Support and Legal Action
A group of UK women, including CEO Sarah Levitt and human rights barrister Dr. Charlotte Proudman, are backing Fatou’s case. They argue that the Home Office’s handling of FGM asylum claims lacks gender sensitivity, leading to unjust rejections.
Call to Action
The petition to stop Fatou’s deportation is gaining traction. Supporters are encouraged to sign and share the petition to prevent a potential tragedy.
Conclusion
Fatou Tamba’s case highlights the vulnerabilities faced by women seeking asylum from gender-based violence. The outcome of her legal battle could set a precedent for future asylum claims involving FGM and forced marriage.
For more information or to support Fatou’s case, visit the petition at https://supportfatou.org.
To support her Judicial review, Support Fatou’s Judicial Review Crowdfunder.
