Gambian lawmakers voted to uphold a ban on skin-lightening products after a debate in parliament. Skin-lightening or bleaching agents, especially unauthorised ones, may cause multiple health risks such as scarring, blistering, nerve and bone damage. It is also controversial as many argue phenomenon is a toxic legacy of colonialism. Adama Barrow’s government sought to lift the skin-bleaching ban last year, arguing that it discriminated against women. Justice Minister Dawda Jallow also argued that criminalising people for using cosmetic products was an unfair punishment. But on Monday, several lawmakers argued in favour of maintaining the ban, citing health or religious reasons. The practice is widely used across Africa as well as South Asia and the Middle East.
SOURCE: AFRICA NEWS
More Stories
Tunisian City Attracts a New Type of Tourist
DYK that the Green Point Lighthouse is the Oldest Operational Lighthouse in South Africa?
This Mauritian Resort is the Definition of Relaxation
Who Wouldn’t Happily Take a trip to Seychelles at Any Given Point in the Year?
Your July Destination is Sorted
A Gourmet Revival of Sierra Leone’s Bold Flavours
A Continental Visionary Design Indaba Emerging
How David Ochieng Uses Fashion to Positively Impact Kenyan Communities
Mbongeni Buthelezi: The South African Artist Turning Plastic into Portraits
What Tems’ Global Success Means for Women in African Music
Radisson Blu Hotel Is Officially Open In Durban
Hilton Closes Shop in Nairobi