By: Haruna Kuyateh
The Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPWM) and its development partners recently commemorated International Women’s Day at Mbankam under the theme: Investing in women for gender equity and equality of Lower Nuimi in the North Bank Region.
The celebration was funded by the Canadian government project dubbed APOCEB a French acronym for Coastal Population Adaptation and Blue Economy.
The event aimed at recognizing women’s contribution to the management of natural resources, it brought together 12 beneficiary communities of Niumi and Jokadou National Parks and a cross-section of society.
Mrs. Honourine Jatta Gender and Community Development Expert of APOCEB Project in Dakar thanked the community of Mbankam for their invaluable contribution to the restoration and protection of natural resources.
She gave a brief history of International Women’s Day as set aside by the UN on 8th March in 1962 and the need to accord both genders equal opportunities in all forms of economic, knowledge, resources, and responsibilities for a better world.
Dembo Samateh Deputy Governor of NBR hailed the Department of Parks and Wildlife Management (DPWM) and project officials from Senegal for their foresight in complementing government efforts in the recognition of women’s participation in national development.
He noted that the theme for 2024 International Women’s Day called for more investment and equity in the management and allocation of resources.
Alasan Minteh, SEDAD Field Coordinator at DPWM reiterated the need for development partners and organizations to greatly invest in women empowerment to enhance effective participation in the management of natural resources.
The Field Coordinator reiterated that the International Women’s Day celebration is fundamental in providing stock taking on the achievement registered and identifying gaps.
Sarjo N.N Manneh, Park Manager of Niumi National Park said the celebration was meant to raise awareness among civil society and state actors of the importance of investing in women for gender equity and equality.
He explained that the APOCEB project provides the communities of Jinack, Mbankam, and Bakindick Koto with processing units, sheds vegetable gardens, tricycles, beekeeping tools, gears, and honey processing units.
