By: Haruna Kuyateh
The National Council for Civic Education (NCCE), in collaboration with the National Human Rights Commission and with support from UNICEF under the UNPRPD project, organized a one-day Regional Learning Forum in Kerewan, North Bank Region.
The event aimed to enhance disability rights under the theme: Collaborative Approach to Creating an Inclusive Environment for Disability Rights.
The forum provided a platform for stakeholders to foster dialogue, collaboration, and learning to advance the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs). Ansumana Ceesay, NCCE Program Manager, emphasized the importance of collective efforts in strengthening disability rights and opportunities.
Discussions focused on inclusive practices, accessibility, protection, and legal frameworks for PWDs. Participants explored challenges and potential solutions to inspire action. Ceesay stressed that education, dialogue, and collaboration are vital in breaking barriers that marginalize individuals with disabilities.
The regional engagement targets 500 participants, including government representatives, civil society organizations, organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), community leaders, service providers, and other relevant stakeholders. The ten-day forum will take place across the country.
Despite progress, challenges remain in implementing the Persons with Disabilities Act 2021, following The Gambia’s ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) in 2015. A multi-sectoral approach is necessary to ensure full implementation, requiring increased collaboration, knowledge sharing, and capacity building.
The forum aims to drive tangible actions, strengthening advocacy, empowerment, and legal reforms. Ceesay emphasized that inclusion is a fundamental human right requiring dedication and collective action to dismantle barriers and create a more equitable future.
Rubie Sowe, President of the North Bank Disabled Association, thanked NCCE and UNICEF while calling for the full implementation of the Disability Act 2021. She highlighted the forum’s role in raising public awareness, ensuring protection, and amplifying PWD voices in decision-making.
Chief Fabala Fadia Kinteh of Lower Badibou assured district authorities’ full support and urged participants to act as goodwill ambassadors for persons with disabilities.
