Child Protection

Despite the existence of progressive laws and international commitments, persons with disabilities in The Gambia continue to face gaps in policy implementation, access to services, and meaningful inclusion in public life. These challenges are often compounded by limited coordination across government sectors, social stigma, and inadequate institutional capacity to translate disability rights frameworks into practice.

Against this backdrop, the Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD), in partnership with ChildFund, concluded a two‑day forum (20–21 August) aimed at strengthening disability‑inclusive policies and advancing legislative reforms. The forum brought together government officials, local leaders, disability advocates, and policy experts.

Moderated by GFD Executive Director Sainey Camara, with technical support from ChildFund’s Sunkung Danso, discussions focused on closing gaps in disability rights implementation and aligning policy commitments with practical action.

Delivering the keynote address, GFD Chairperson and Principal Magistrate Muhammed Krubally highlighted the need to align The Gambia’s Persons with Disabilities Act (2021) with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). “Our principles must be explained, respected, promoted, and protected. They cannot be compromised,” he said.

Policy consultant Lamin Fatajo emphasised that disability inclusion requires addressing social and structural barriers, not only impairments. Drawing on the UN CRPD, UNICEF’s Disability Inclusion Policy, and the World Bank model, he underscored the need for reforms across sectors including health, agriculture, and education, with particular attention to access to healthcare, assistive devices, and mental health services.

Participants put forward key recommendations, including:

• Aligning national laws with UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities standards;
• Training professionals in inclusive service delivery;
• Expanding disability‑friendly communication methods such as Braille, sign language, and audio formats;
• Establishing an inter‑ministerial task force on disability inclusion;
• Strengthening public awareness to address stigma and discrimination.

The forum concluded with a commitment from stakeholders to deepen collaboration in advancing disability rights and ensuring the full and equal participation of persons with disabilities in education, healthcare, employment, and public life.