The Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD) is currently embarking on projects making Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) to become self-reliant, self-employed and economically independent through enterpreneurial training skills.
On Saturday, 24 February 2024, 25 women with disabilities graduated from 9 months Tailoring Training, awarded certificates, and offered each Tailoring Machine by GFD on loan basis, to serve as revolving funds, to enable other members benefit.
Muhammed Krubally- GFD Chairmanin in his remarks explained that the federation is the "umbrella body of PWDs in The Gambia; advocating for respect, promotion, protection and fulfilment of fundamental rights of PWDs.
"GFD partners with Government, NGOs, civil society organisations, Parastatals, individuals and other authorities to fulfilling the inherent dignity and the rights of PWDs," he said.
He noted that "since employment is the rallying cry for PWDs in The Gambia, which the Government cannot do alone, GFD together with Heeno International Foundation- foundeed Dr Karamo Sonko- formed a strong collaboration to introduce a project call the Gambia Special Needs Enterpreneurial Funds; which is being supported by Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa - Badea, to support this enterpreneurial funds and skills.
"To make PWDs independent and self-employed the two institutions in the project struck a deal with SND Designs in order for the PWDs to be trained with Tailoring skills," said GFD Chairman Krubally, who is also Principal Magistrate in Banjul.
The first and only visually impaired Magistrate in The Gambia also added that 25 women with disabilities went through 9 months tailoring training skills, and become qualified tailors, certificated and given each brand new tailoring machines, on loan basis; which will serve as revolving funds, so that others who haven't benefited will also benefit. He believes that will create a wider impact, to fulfilling employment needs of PWDs. He also unveiled that subsequent disbursement will be done for others who went through other entrepreneurial training.
Baboucarr Joof, Minister of Trade, Regional Integration and Employment reiterated that training is meant to ensure PWDs live a dignified life and self-reliant, prevent them from begging and enable them to become self-employed, and take care of their families.
He commended all stakeholders who made the event a success. Addressing participants he said: "As you stand on the threshold of your future, embrace the infinite possibilities that lie ahead- Don't be desperate. Let us all agree that life begins today, because you are taking charge of your own future and destiny with effect from today. Pursue your passion, norture your dreams and your future, and strive to make a positive change on the world around you. Approach the future with courage and optimism. Be ready to make your mark and to be a change agent," said Mr Joof.
He said graduates are expected to embark on income generating activities that enable them to live a dignified life, and to cater for their families. Adding: "With those skills you can demonstrate your creative capabilities and contribute to national development.
"My Ministry is promoting make in The Gambia products to sell even beyong The Gambia. And I have the feeling some great ideas in fabrics and garmen designs will come from the 25 participants. You might have challenges with your legs, your limbs; but your brain is in tack. Use your brain to create designs that Gambians have never seen. This make in The Gambia products strategy will help to sell your products using schemes and institutions that The Gambia is part of. We know there is this African Continental Free Trade Area which allows us to sell to people beyond The Gambia, as if we are citizens of those countries. For many years Gambians have gone outside the country to look for skilled tailors,.. I want the 25 graduants change that. I want people from other countries to come here for designs. I know you can do it. Think out of the box, have the confidence that you can do, and do it.
"My Ministry is tasked with the responsibility of creating the enabling environment and facilitating job creation to employ our increasingly youthful population, including PWDs. In this regard we invested in policies and programs that facilitate creation of more jobs to promote skillful employment, skills development based on market needs. One of those policies is the National Employment Policy and Action Plan 2022 - 2026," he said.
He also highlighted that this policy recognises employment needs and challenges faced by PWDs; recommends implementation of special actions, including adoption of the Disability Bill, assistance programs to PWDs, including Microfinance, etc.
Said he is informed that 400 PWDs were trained on enterpreneurship, and Heeno Foundation facilitated micro-credit from Badea to secure machines to start workshops, which is in line with the policies being implemented by his ministry.
He assured his ministry's continued support to improve and expand the work of participants if they are serious with their work.
He among others said the new Labour Act 2023 has been enacted to replace the old labour act 2007, with special emphasis on addressing plights of PWDs; creating employment opportunities, and ensuring public offices are user friendly for PWDs.
Jankoba Jabbi - Social Welfare Director on behalf of the Minister of Children and Social Welfare spoke of numerous Government programs, including the enactment of the disability bill to guarantee rights of persons with disabilities.
Mr Haddy Cham on behalf of the GCCI CEO encouraged PWDs to formalise their businesses, and while promising GCCIs resolve to provide business training skills for PWDs.
Other speakers include SND Designs Manager and Representative of Deeno International Foundation
The day is not only a celebration but also embracing your future. Let's agree that Life begins today.
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