By: Nyima Sillah
The Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) yesterday donated six sewing machines worth D91,500 to the Organization for Social Development and Inclusion for Person with Disability (OSDIVI), the donation was held at the OSDIVI Center, Kanifing.
Commenting on the gesture, Yankuba Manneh Communication Officer GPA said: “The Gambia Ports Authority is very much active in supporting the disability community in this country. Is one of the many supports that we have been rolling out to ensure that persons with disabilities are also not left behind but they are included in the socio-economic development of this country,” he added.
Also, he said persons with disability are physically challenged but that does not mean that they are unable. Adding that this is why anytime they call on them they always respond to them positively with affirmation that they are an important section of the community.
“We do hope that these machines will go a long way towards empowering, equipping this particular member of the community with life skills because we know sewing machines are important, they can be used and utilized judiciously,” he added.
Manneh, therefore, gave assurance that for any other body that is under the federation of disability in this country, the GPA is more than willing to support them in any endeavors that are geared towards changing and transforming their lives.
Meanwhile, the Director of OSDIVI, Yankuba Amadou Faal Sonko said the materials will assist them to facilitate their work, likewise improve the vulnerable people.
“GPA has been supporting this organization since its inception in 2011. We are calling for other companies to emulate the footsteps of GPA,” he added.
He said: Disable people have nowhere to settle or to claim for their own but if they can support them they will see themselves included in the society. He, therefore, on behalf of the organization expressed gratitude to GPA for the generous donation and assured them putting them into good use as espected.