The Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD) observe 2025 International Disability Day Commemorations in Farafenni, marked by March Pass from the Police Station to Wallimang Hotel, where a symposium was held with speeched from dignitaries, comprising regional authorities and community leaders

Video sources /Interviewers/ Video Editor: Fatou Bin Jatta and Sarata Barry - Members of Association of Mentally Health (AMDG), and Muhammad Touray- Association of Gambian Albinos (AGA) - The Gambia, and courtesy of the GFD, OPDs Info & News WhatsApp Group; Images on the picture below: From left: Kerewan Area Council Chairman, NBR Governor, His Worship Muhammed Krubally (GFD Chairman), Sainey Camara (GFD Executive Director) and the Master of Ceremony
Farafenni, North Bank Region — The Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD) on Wednesday, 3rd December 2025, commemorated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with a major regional gathering in Farafenni, bringing together government officials,  leaders, ccommunity civil society actors, and persons with disabilities to promote inclusion, dignity, and human rights.  The annual observance—proclaimed by the United Nations in 1992—aims to deepen global commitment to equality and highlight the contributions and challenges of persons with disabilities.  This year’s national commemoration was hosted in the North Bank Region, drawing a significant turnout from local authorities and disability organizations. Governor Saidykhan: Inclusion is a human right, not a favour. Delivering the opening statement, North Bank Region Governor Lamin Saidykhan reaffirmed government’s commitment to advancing disability inclusion, describing it as a fundamental human right, not a favour. He praised the GFD for its leadership and “unwavering dedication” in championing disability rights across The Gambia. Governor Saidykhan emphasized the relevance of the Persons with Disabilities Act 2021, which domesticates both the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. He reminded institutions and community leaders of their obligations to protect, promote, and fulfil the rights of persons with disabilities.
“Persons with disabilities are rights-holders and must hold duty-bearers accountable,” he said, adding that inclusion requires opportunity rather than sympathy. While Section 17 of the Act provides penalties for discrimination, he stressed the need for proactive fulfilment of obligations before enforcement.  The Governor highlighted persistent gaps in accessibility, education, employment, healthcare, and social protection, though he acknowledged progress made through joint efforts by government, civil society, and disability groups. He paid emotional tribute to his late mother, whom he described as a person with a disability whose resilience shaped his outlook. He further praised the GFD as “a beacon of hope and progress,” calling for sustained collaboration to build a society “where no one is marginalised, invisible, or left behind.” Krubally Highlights Legal Protections and Calls for National Unity. 
Muhammed Krubally for his part delivered a powerful address focusing on the legal and moral responsibilities of all stakeholders to protect and respect disability rights. Krubally acknowledged the presence of the Governor, the Kerewan Area Council Chairman, chiefs, Farafenni Police Station Officer (SO) , and various disability organisations as a strong signal of national commitment. He underscored the importance of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities—ratified by The Gambia in 2015—which enshrines autonomy, non-discrimination, accessibility, equality of opportunity, and respect for human diversity.  The GFD Chairman explained that hosting the 2025 celebration in the North Bank Region was a deliberate effort to promote belonging and dignity within rural disability communities, under the leadership of the North Bank Disabled Association. He reminded participants of key provisions in the Persons with Disabilities Act 2021, which mandates institutions—including Area Councils—to integrate persons with disabilities into planning processes. He stressed that violations attract heavy penalties, including fines up to D100,000 or imprisonment. “The Constitution protects us from discrimination, and our laws demand full implementation,” he said, urging solidarity and joint action to build a harmonious, inclusive society.  Reaffirming National Commitment Speakers also reiterated The Gambia’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the pledge to “leave no one behind.” They emphasized that fostering disability-inclusive communities is essential to social progress and national development. Other speakers at the event included Papa Tunkara- the Kerewan Area Council Chairman, Musu Kuta Comma, Country Director for ChildFund , and the representative of the Farafenni Alkalo. The 2025 commemoration concluded with renewed commitments from government, traditional authorities, and civil society to advance accessibility, equality, and full participation for persons with disabilities across the country.

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