AHEAD OF 2026–27 VOTE: NATIONWIDE TRAINING TARGETS FAIRER ELECTIONS AS UNDP INTENSIFIES SUPPORT FOR WOMEN, PWDs

The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) has concluded a 10 days the Capacity Building training for Women and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the Electoral Processes under the theme: Strengthening Inclusive Participatory Elections in The Gambia. The training workshop funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), was implemented through supports by the Gambia's Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), from 10 to 20 November 2025. The IEC Vice Chairman made the opening remakrs followed by Goodwill Message by UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in The Gambia, followed by Introduction & Training Objective by IEC Operations Officer; and Group Photo Presentations followed on the topics: Why Gender in Elections in form of Presentation & Discussion; The Electoral Processes; Inclusivity of Women & PWDs in Elections; and presentation on leadership & Communication Skills The UNDP nationwide Second Training on Gender & Disability Inclusion in Elections meant to boost the participation of women and persons with disabilities in The Gambia’s electoral process was concluded on Thursday 20 November in Gambian Capital, Banjul. The KMC workshop held 19 November 2025 at Dawda Kairaba Conference Centre brought together representatives from IEC, National Council for Civic Education (NCCE), Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD), National Youth Council (NYC) and civil society partners ahead of the 2026 elections. Similar training were conducted in other regions of The Gambia, namely North Bank, Central, Lower, and Upper River Regions. UNDP says inclusive elections are key to transparency, accountability and leaving no one behind. Delivering remarks on behalf of UNDP Resident Representative Ms. Mandisa Mashologu, Deputy Resident Representative Mrs. Evelyn Edroma reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to supporting inclusive, transparent and accountable elections. She said the initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 16 on peace, justice and strong institutions. Mrs. Edroma highlighted UNDP’s long-standing partnership with The Gambia in strengthening democratic institutions, promoting gender equality, and ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind in political processes. She noted that the first round of training held in August reached 289 participants, including 162 women and 53 persons with disabilities. She further commended the IEC for its leadership and ongoing collaboration with UNDP, including support to regional office rehabilitation, capacity development of the legal and gender/disability units, and provision of equipment. “As we prepare for the 2026 elections, our shared goal is to ensure that the process is free, fair, inclusive and transparent,” she said, urging participants to engage actively and embrace inclusivity as a national responsibility. Mr Cherno Jallow- Deputy Chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission for his praised political parties, civil society organisations and development partners for their commitment to strengthening inclusive electoral processes in The Gambia. Mr Jallow thanked distinguished guests, including UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Madam Evelyn , IEC Director of Operations Abdullah Jeng, and representatives of political parties and civic groups for their participation. He described it as “an honour and a privilege” to address the gathering, noting that the wide participation reflects a shared commitment to democratic consolidation. On behalf of the Chairman and members of the Commission, he commended attendees for making time out of their busy schedules to join the workshop. He stressed that inclusion and participation are “key ingredients that underpin any credible electoral process,” adding that this is why the Commission places strong emphasis on such training programs aimed at promoting a more inclusive democratic environment.

IEC Director Calls for Stronger Stakeholder Engagement Ahead of 2026–27 Elections: Mr. Abdullah K. Jeng Director of Operations at the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in his welcoming remarks welcome representatives from the NCCE, Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD), Inter-Party Committee (IPC), civil society organisations, youth groups and IEC staff and underscored the importance of inclusive participation as The Gambia prepares for the 2026–2027 electoral cycle. He expressed appreciation to UNDP and all stakeholders for their continued collaboration, noting that the second round of the training is “timely” as the country moves closer to a busy electoral period. “Election is the business of all and all voices matter,” Jeng stated, emphasising that strengthening stakeholder capacity is essential for promoting inclusive participation in the electoral process. He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to continuous engagement with partners and wished participants a productive and successful deliberation.

Gender Officer Highlights Need for Stronger Gender Inclusion in Gambian Elections: Mariama Jammeh, Gender and Persons with Disabilities Officer at the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) who chaired the opening ceremony in her presentation underscored the urgent need to strengthen gender equity in The Gambia’s electoral processes. In her presentation titled “Why Gender in Elections?”, she outlined key gaps and the importance of inclusive participation. Mrs Jammeh explained that gender is a social construct that shapes the roles, behaviours and expectations of men, women, boys and girls. Understanding these dynamics, she said, is essential in elections—formal decision-making processes through which citizens choose leaders. She noted that marginalised groups, including women, persons with disabilities, youth and those excluded due to socioeconomic or cultural barriers, often face limited access to political participation. This exclusion, she added, affects representation and the quality of governance. According to Jammeh, gender in elections matters because political bodies should reflect the population they serve. Inclusive representation strengthens policymaking and ensures diverse life experiences—particularly those of women and minority groups—inform national decisions. She highlighted international commitments, such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals and The Gambia’s National Development Plan, which call for equal political participation and leaving no one behind. Jammeh also stressed that gender-inclusive elections increase voter turnout, challenge stereotypes and inspire leadership among underrepresented groups. Presenting statistics, she revealed persistent gender gaps in Gambian elections. While women make up the majority of registered voters—53.5% in 2016 and 57% in 2021—their representation in elective and appointive positions remains low. The country recorded no female presidential candidates in both the 2016 and 2021 elections. The number of female National Assembly Members remained at three in both 2017 and 2022 elections, with only a small number nominated. Female leadership at local government level has also seen minimal growth, with one female mayor/chairperson recorded in both 2018 and 2023. To bridge the gender gap, Jammeh recommended legal or voluntary quotas, stronger political party reforms, mentorship programs for women, and robust civic and voter education. She concluded that addressing cultural and societal barriers is key to achieving equitable political participation for all Gambians.

IEC Official Breaks Down The Gambia’s Electoral Process Demba Jallow, Voter Education and Training Officer at the IEC, for his part delivered a detailed presentation on how elections are conducted in The Gambia, from registration to the final declaration of results. Jallow traced the country’s electoral history from the 1950s, noting the shift from restricted colonial-era voting to the establishment of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) under the 1997 Constitution. He highlighted key legal instruments such as the Constitution, Elections Act, Local Government Act, and IEC regulations. He explained voter registration requirements—citizenship, age 18+, and valid ID including birth certificate, passport, national ID or attestation. He also outlined qualifications for candidates and the nomination thresholds: 5,000 signatures for presidential aspirants, 300 for National Assembly, 150 for Mayor/Chairperson, and 75 for councillors, along with mandatory deposits and documents. Jallow detailed campaign rules and the full voting-day procedure, including oath-taking by officials, preparation and sealing of ballot drums, and maintaining order at polling stations. He emphasized that polls open at 8am and close at 5pm, with all voters in queue allowed to cast their vote. Counting takes place on the spot in the presence of agents, observers, media, and security. Results are recorded, shared with agents, posted at the polling station, and transported to collation centres before being transmitted to IEC Headquarters for official declaration. He underscored transparency, adherence to law, and respect for procedures as essential to safeguarding credible elections in The Gambia.

Philip A. Gomez National Civic Education Officer for Central and Upper River Regions in his presentation said Sections 26, 28, 31, 33 and 39 of the 1997 Constitution guarantee equal political rights for women and PWDs, yet they still face discrimination and are often left behind in elections and leadership roles. He challenged communities to empower, train and mentor qualified women and PWDs to take leadership positions, stressing that competence—not favoritism, relationships or tribal sentiments—should guide voting decisions. Mr Gomez also reminded participants that leadership is about influence, responsibility and vision, not titles or status. He warned against electing leaders based on personal ties, sentiment or gifts, especially with the upcoming elections.

“Your vote is your voice and your power,” he said, urging citizens to choose leaders with integrity, wisdom and long-term vision, and to reject practices that marginalize capable women and PWDs. He encouraged participants to spread awareness and help shift mindsets: “Anyone with the knowledge, capability and wisdom to lead should be given a chance—without hindrance.”

The workshop aims to deepen understanding, share experiences and strengthen electoral institutions to promote meaningful participation of all citizens. Mrs. Etroma officially declared the training open. Participants observed that women are sometimes discouraged by their own fellow women who criticise them, however other participants advised that women should not allow critics to obstruct their participations into politics.

Participants also recommended the need for laws to be in place to compel political parties nominate women and persons with disabilities into positions. Participants also recommend the need to educate school children about politics, although the resource persons unveiled that Civic Education is being introduced into the school curriculum The training also recommends grassroots engagements to enhance effective participation towards achieving positive developments. A Participant also recommended that IEC laws include continuous voter registrations Calls for Empowerment and Active Participation of Women and Persons with Disabilities

Mr. Abdoulai Jeng, Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) Director of Operations in his presentation urged stakeholders to intensify efforts to empower women and persons with disabilities (PWDs) to take up leadership and decision-making roles at all levels of governance. Mr Jeng said the programme aims to strengthen the capacities of women and PWDs while encouraging participants to disseminate the knowledge gained. He noted that although the Kanifing MuniCouncil (KMC) constituency is large, only 30 participants were carefully selected as “ambassadors” to extend the message. Mr Jeng challenged participants to reflect on why women and PWDs remain underrepresented in local councils, the National Assembly and executive positions. He invited contributions, leading to discussions on intimidation of PWDs in politics, discrimination by political actors, and socio-economic barriers such as financial dependence. Participants from disability organisations highlighted that some PWDs who attempted political participation faced intimidation and frustration from politicians, especially those in power. They warned that such tactics discourage participation and violate constitutional rights to free association and political choice. Proposed solutions included financial empowerment, enhanced political education from early schooling, and increased training opportunities to build confidence and political maturity. Speakers stressed that political parties must provide genuine roles and visibility for women and PWDs, not symbolic representation. Jeng and other facilitators emphasised that rights are not merely granted but must be claimed. They encouraged women and PWDs to assert their political rights, engage actively with political parties, and refuse to remain on the margins. “Inclusivity means leaving no one behind,” Jeng concluded, urging participants to advocate within their parties and communities. “If political parties don’t come for you, go to them. It is your right to participate.” Participants recommended stronger laws compelling parties to nominate women and PWDs, continuous voter registration and grassroots engagement.