By: Haruna Kuyateh
Action Aid International the Gambia with support from the United Nations Fund on Population Activities (UNFPA) on Monday, under a theme, Regional Religious Conference, engaged communities in a daylong dialogue discussing cultural norms and promoting of women’s leadership.
This important forum was held in Farafenni, Upper Badibou in the North Bank Region (NBR) and brought together various stakeholders including religious leaders, alkalolu, youths, and opinion leaders.
Addressing the gathering, Binta ML Ceesay, Women Rights Manager at Action Aid International The Gambia underscored the strong partnership with UNFPA in advocating for women’s inclusion at the district tribunal, which she said is purposely to ensure fair dispensation of justice.
She added that the forum was meant to increase the knowledge of understanding of women’s participation in leadership positions, especially in political and key decision-making processes.
She said the 1997 constitution clearly stated that there should be no discrimination in empowering in the decision-making process. Madam Ceesay said the dialogue would help to point out gaps and chart the ways for collective actions in the women empowerment drive.
Effective women’s participation would enhance development and strengthen their potential for sustainable development, she added.
Papa Tunkara, Chairman of Kerewan Area Council thanked Action Aid for their invaluable contribution in promoting women’s empowerment drive.
He disclosed that the advocacy on women’s inclusion at the district tribunal enabled the council to appoint 7 women in all districts as members of the district tribunal to ensure fair justice and provide a safe space where they will adequately express themselves.
Ebrima Jammeh, Senior Administrative Officer Office of the Governor NBR, recognized the efforts of ActionAid The Gambia and their partners for creating this forum to champion women’s rights and empowerment deserve utmost appreciation.
Meanwhile, Mr. Jammeh an Admin Secretary dilated on different issues including gender equality, and another step to take which included education and awareness, economic empowerment, political representation, and challenging norms.
He, therefore, used the moment to call for unity saying they recognize that gender equality benefits everyone—men, women, and the entire society.
Fafa O Cham, Head of Programme and Policy, Kitim Dibba, Alkalo of Farafenni hailed Action Aid International for their support in complementing government efforts in poverty reduction through advocacy and poverty reduction.
Saikou Darboe, Programme Manager, Local Right Programme 9 reiterated the closer collaboration and participation in advancing women in leadership positions. He noted that his office is working on building capacity among school-going age on how to make reusable sanitary pads to ensure safety and punctuality.
