GFD to present position paper on the land development process

As part of engagement of persons with disabilities in the ongoing Land Policy Development process, The Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD) has unveiled plans to come up with a position paper for inclusion of the welfare of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in the Land Policy under development by the Ministry of Lands This intention was unveiled as part of recommendations solicited during sensetisation of 50 Participants drawn from various disabled people’s organisations affiliated to GFD held at the Hotel School in Kanifing recently. The event is part of community sensetisation to solicit views of various sectors so as to reflect their opinions in the land policy being developed for the first time in the history of The Gambia. The event was meant to sensetise persons with disabilities on the development process and solicit their views as part of process to mainstream disabilities in The Gambian development process. The event is done through collaboration between GFD and the Ministry of Lands who are coordinating the land policy development process through Mr Abdou Touray – the Consultant. Various participants during the recommendations called on the need to allocate PWDs with huge land areas to enable them embark on major agricultural and other enterprising projects that will help in creating employment opportunities and economic growth for PWDs. They also spoke of the need for consideration of housing projects for persons with disabilities, especially in the urban settlements, because PWDs like the blind who come from the provinces usually find it difficult to get housing from their relatives in the urban settlements due to discrimination, among others. His Worship Muhammed Krubally, GFD President, who double as Principal Magistrate at the Banjul Magistrates Court stated that persons with disabilities also need to be allocated land. He also advised those who acquire land to do the necessary registrations, not only by acquiring Alkalo’s certificate, but also get the approval of the district chief, the area council, physical planning and the minister of Justice certificate. He said those with Alkalo’s certificate only have customary land certificate, and if someone goes the other way and get the necessary documents from the relevant authorities the one with customary ownership will lose such land. Mr Abdou Touray – The Consultant for his part among others said the event is to sensetise communities, including PWDs on the ongoing development of the land policy. He said civil society organisations, as well the media will also be sensetised on the policy to solicit their views. Other speakers included Mr Sainey Camara, Acting Executive Director of GFD and Dr. Sowe from Lands Ministry.