Gambia Launches National Disability Advisory Council Secretariat, Boosting Implementation of Disability Act

The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare has officially inaugurated a fully furnished Secretariat for the National Advisory Council for Persons with Disabilities (NACPWD), marking a major milestone in advancing disability rights and governance in The Gambia. The ceremony was held on Saturday, 15 November 2025, at the secretariat located at the National Rehabilitation Centre complex, former social welfare department compound, Marina Parade in Banjul. The new secretariat will serve as the administrative headquarters of the 17-member Council established under Section 8 of the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2021. Its establishment is expected to significantly strengthen the Council’s operational capacity, visibility, and effectiveness in coordinating national disability policies. NACPWD Chairman, His Worship Magistrate Muhammed Krubally, welcomed the development, noting that a dedicated office and staff are essential for the Council to fulfill its mandate. “For the Council to effectively carry out its work, an operational secretariat with dedicated personnel is vital,” he said. Representing the Ministry, Permanent Secretary Elo Jallow reaffirmed the government’s commitment to disability inclusion, disclosing that D4 million has already been allocated to disability-related programmes, with plans for increased support in the upcoming budget. He further announced quarterly financial backing to ensure council members operate with dignity and efficiency. Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, Emmanuel Joof, praised the initiative, describing the availability of a functional office as key to monitoring the implementation of the Disability Act. He highlighted recent capacity-building activities as evidence of the Council’s growing national importance. Krubally used the occasion to call for deeper collaboration among stakeholders to advance disability rights. He noted that the launch marks the end of an era in which persons with disabilities lacked adequate legal and institutional safeguards, ushering in renewed hope backed by stronger frameworks. Delivering the vote of thanks, Council Member Mrs. Ejatou Jallow commended the Ministry, UN agencies, and development partners for their consistent support. She also recognised the “tireless leadership” of Chairman Krubally in securing the new Secretariat. The establishment of the NACPWD Secretariat represents a significant step forward in promoting the rights, dignity, and full inclusion of persons with disabilities across The Gambia. For further information, please contact: His Worship Muhammed Krubally, Chairperson, NACPWD Tel: +220 7739329 Email: muhammedkrubally@gmail.com

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