By: Haruna Kuyateh
ActionAid International The Gambia in partnership with the United Purpose, Catholic Relief Services are currently implementing a 36 months program called Empowering Civil Society to mobilize citizens action towards green economy and environmental sustainability in Central River Region and North Bank Region.
The meeting funded by the European Union was meant to enhance women capacity to develop their confidence.
The Project engages women as part of the preparatory stage to provide interface between women and National Assembly Members to discuss key demands which includes impact of climate change, women land rights and decision making to align with National Development Plan 2018 to 2021.
Sarjo Camara Project Manager at ActionAid International The Gambia said the forum formed part of the preparatory stage to better organised women to present their demands to National Assembly on impact of climate change, women land rights, land ownership and women participation in decision making.
She noted that there’s need for strong civil society with adequate capacity on Agro ecology climate adaptation and sustainable environmental policies.
Madam Camara noted that the project organised series of engagement and consultation with stakeholders, example using caravan, generate information on women demand note.
Bintou Gasama Deputy Permanent Secretary at Ministry of Agriculture lauded ActionAid efforts as regarding complementing government efforts in strengthening women capacity on climate change, health, education and decision-making process.
She said advocacy on land rights through dialogue would contribute to confidence building and enhance women participation in key decision making.
Kumba Sanyang of Aljamdu a member of Rural Women Farmer Assembly praised ActionAid for their tireless efforts in strengthening women capacity and lobbying on land rights campaign.