FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: GFD and ChildFund The Gambia with funding from UNFPA, Hosted a Regional Forum to Strengthen Advocacy for inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in Policies and access to Services.

Farafenni, North Bank Region – The Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD), in partnership with ChildFund The Gambia, convened a two-day forum on August 21-22, 2025 at Wallymann Hotel to review and advance disability rights, focusing on policy gaps and legislative reforms. The forum brought together government officials, community leaders, disability advocates, and policy experts, including the Alkalo and District Chief of Farafenni. It was moderated by Mr. Sainey Camara, Executive Director of GFD, with participation from Mr. Sunkung Danso of ChildFund The Gambia. In his keynote address, His Worship Muhammed Krubally, Chairperson of GFD and Principal Magistrate of Banjul Magistrate’s Court, stated: "Our principles must be explained, respected, promoted, and protected. They cannot be compromised." He emphasized the need to align the Persons with Disabilities Act 2021 with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) to ensure comprehensive inclusion and protection.
Policy expert Mr. Lamin Fatajo, retired Education Director and consultant, highlighted the urgency of mainstreaming disability inclusion in all national policies. He noted: "Effective disability inclusion requires removing societal barriers—not just addressing impairments—to guarantee equal access to education, healthcare, employment, and civic engagement." Mr. Fatajo referenced key international frameworks, including the UN CRPD, UNICEF’s Disability Inclusion Strategy (DIPAS 2022–2030), and the World Bank’s Disability-Inclusive Development model, advocating for policies grounded in respectful language and inclusive consultations. He underscored the guiding principle: "Nothing About Us Without Us."
On the second day, Mr. Fatajo presented a thorough analysis of disability inclusion in the health and agricultural sectors, identifying critical gaps such as limited healthcare access, insufficient mental health services, lack of assistive devices, and cultural stigma. He called for urgent reforms, professional training, and expanded rehabilitation services. Participants developed key recommendations to: • Align national laws with CRPD obligations; • Train healthcare professionals on disability rights and inclusive service delivery; • Provide accessible information via Braille and audio formats; • Establish an inter-ministerial task force with disability organizations; • Enhance national awareness campaigns addressing stigma and promoting inclusion. This landmark forum marks a decisive step toward fulfilling The Gambia’s commitment to building an inclusive society where persons with disabilities can fully realize their rights and potential. For further information, please contact: 7739329 / 3923377

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