By: Binta Jaiteh
The Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Welfare, Honourable Fatou Kinteh, appeared before the National Assembly yesterday to provide an update on the implementation of the Disability Act, which was enacted in 2021.
During the session, Hon. Modou Lamin Bah of Banjul Central opened the discussion with a direct question asking “Could the Minister clarify the reasons behind the delays in implementing the Disability Act?”
In response, Minister Kinteh reassured lawmakers that progress had been made, highlighting the allocation of four million dalasi annually to establish a disability fund.
“My ministry has made meaningful advancements, including financial support and rehabilitation initiatives,” she stated.
Minister Kinteh outlined several achievements under the Act, including rehabilitation services. the National Rehabilitation Center in Banjul has been equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, serving 3,500 individuals with wheelchair support and repairs for assistive devices.
On collaboration with stakeholders: The ministry is working closely with the Gambia Federation of the Disabled and the Disability Advisory Council to enhance program implementation.
For technological support she said the plans are underway to provide laptops with specialized software to visually impaired students at the University of The Gambia library, ensuring sustainable and cost-effective support.
Awareness campaigns. She said the ministry has conducted sensitization programs on international disability rights conventions (CEDAW, CRPD), reaching 60 individuals.
She continued that on financial assistance, over 5,500 persons with disabilities receive monthly cash transfers to enhance financial stability. While an upcoming disability center – a new rehabilitation facility in Bansang, Central River Region, is set to open before the end of the year, with equipment already procured and a designated space at Bansang Hospital secured.
While acknowledging these efforts, Hon. Bah pressed further, raising concerns about gaps in implementation. However, Deputy Speaker Seedy Njie reminded him to focus on constructive inquiries rather than making statements.
However, Hon Bah stood his ground, saying “It is my responsibility to seek clarification on the implementation delays. I believe there are crucial gaps that need to be addressed.”
Deputy Speaker Njie emphasized procedural guidelines noting that “Supplementary questions are allowed, but we must avoid making statements.”
When asked about the impact of the disability fund, Minister Kinteh explained that while many organizations have programs in place, additional funding would enhance their effectiveness.
“The current allocation of four million dalasi is insufficient to meet the needs of persons with disabilities. We are appealing to the Assembly to increase this funding,” she appealed.
Hon. Omar Jammeh, Janjanbureh NAM also sought further clarification on the delays, while Minister Kinteh emphasized the progress made so far.
The Deputy Speaker acknowledged the Minister’s response but noted that concerns over implementation remain, with lawmakers pushing for greater urgency and accountability in fulfilling the provisions of the Disability Act.
