By: Haruna Kuyateh
National Council on Civic Education (NCCE) with support from the the United Nations Partnership on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Project through UNICEF and the Gambia Federation of Disability (GFD) on Saturday, 27th April organized a Regional Learning Forum with stakeholders on disability rights in the Gambia.
The theme of the dialogue was Empowering Diversity a Collective Journey to Creating Inclusive Spaces for Disability and was held at the Governor’s Office in Kerewan North Bank Region.
Ansumana Ceesay, Senior Program Officer said the outreach aimed at promoting the full realization of rights and inclusivity for persons with disabilities. This is by actively engaging relevant stakeholders to raise awareness and responsibility in mainstreaming disabilities across all sectors and services.
He noted that the objectives of the activity were to establish platforms for key stakeholders in disability rights, particularly organizations of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) and decision-makers, to convene and address issues affecting Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).
However, he said it is important to discuss issues affecting them to identify problems and find timely solutions to them, adding that “as evidenced by the recent national conference on disability rights, providing forums for PWDs ACT to engage with decision-makers is useful as it can include them in national development initiatives.”
He added further that the forum discussed barriers preventing them from enjoying their rights.
Mr. Ansumana urged and said in togetherness they should ignite the flame of change and ensure that the voices and aspirations of Persons with Disabilities are not only heard but valued and embraced.
“Through dialogue, collaboration, and tireless advocacy, we have the power to transform perceptions, dismantle barriers, and pave the way for a more equitable and accessible future for all,” he added.
Peter John Mendy National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Regional Administrator underscored the significance of the gathering, noting it would contribute to protecting the fundamental human rights of PWD to effectively participate in socio-economic development.
He noted that the NHRC is fully ready to protect the fundamental human rights of all to enhance national development.
The representative of Alkalo of Kerewan, Bakary Fatty thanked NCCE for the periodic awareness on the citizenry and assured local authority of their fullest support to all-inclusive participation to advance the welfare of disability.
Salifu Bagayogo, the President of the Disabled Association thanked NCCE for its foresight in creating public awareness of the importance of building an understanding of inclusive participation while encouraging PWD to acquire skills.
Councilor Alagie Joof of Kerewan Ward underscored the importance of empowering PWD in society saying it is important to always cater for them in development.
Notwithstanding, the activity brought together all the regions and councils across the country as one session was held in each of the selected Regions and councils, targeting about 300 participants which were PWDs, Security personnel, Members of The Gambia Transport Union, youth, health workers, teachers, women, CSO, Local authorities and other relevant regional stakeholders