Shape International

The Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD) commemorated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPwD)on December 3, 2024, alongside its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Basse, the provincial capital of Upper River Region (URR). This event served as a beacon of hope for persons with disabilities (PWD) in The Gambia, emphasizing the commitment to safeguarding their rights and promoting empowerment. March and Speeches: The day commenced with a march from Trust Bank to the Youth Centre in Basse, led by students and GFD members. Various dignitaries, including URR Deputy Governor Mr. Jaiteh and GFD President His Worship Muhammed Krubally, delivered speeches that underscored the importance of empowering PWD and advocating for their rights. Seminar at SOS Conference Centre: In the afternoon, a seminar addressed legal reforms concerning disability rights. Mr. Krubally highlighted advancements under The Gambia's disability act, which aims to eliminate discrimination and fos...

The Gambia’s transitional justice journey has been a cornerstone in the extensive human rights violations committed during the 22-year rule of Yahya Jammeh, which was marked by widespread human rights violations. Mr Jammeh’s 2 decades rule has catalysed an ongoing transitional justice process aimed at addressing past atrocities and ensuring accountability. Despite notable strides, challenges remain in fully implementing the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) recommendations. Sustained political will, international support and civil society engagement remain vital for consolidating gains and achieving lasting peace and justice in The Gambia, according to justice advocates. Mariam J. Ceesay - Women Association for Victims Empowerment (WAVE) Staff in her presentation during a capacity building workshop for members of The Gambia Federationof the Disabled (GFD) held from 8 to 10 November 2024 stated that Yaya Jammeh’s regime was marked by atrocities, including extra ...

On 26 October 2024: a one-day workshop was convened by The Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD) to update persons with disabilities on the process of TRRC recommendations, via a popularisation programme, in collaboration with the Women Association for Victims Empowerment (WAVE). The event was held at the Gambia Organisation of the Visually Impaired (GOVI) Resource Centre in Kanifing and was attended by members of the Disabled Peoples’ Organisations affiliated to GFD. The delegates at the workshop were informed about the ongoing TRRC recommendations implementation process, a brief history and it's purpose. During the opening briefing it was revealed that a number of financial and technical resource issues is hindering the implementation of the TRRC recommendations. The workshop also informed the delegates present of the progress made so far, including informing the delegates the Ministry of Justice had set up a dedicated team to oversee the popularisation programme and to monit...

At a recent workshop organized by the Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD), climate change consultant Mr. Dawda Trawally emphasised the importance of including Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in climate change decision-making processes in The Gambia. He urged that GFD be represented on the national climate change committee, highlighting the need for PWDs to have a direct say in matters affecting their lives. Mr. Trawally noted that The Gambia, as a developing nation, relies on funding from developed countries for climate change initiatives. He stressed the necessity of researching the impacts of climate change on PWDs to develop inclusive projects. In his opening remarks, GFD President Muhammed Krubally highlighted the urgency of addressing climate change, referencing its inclusion in the global development goals for 2030. Mr Krubally who doubles as Principal Magistrate at the Banjul Magistrates' Court discussed various environmental changes, including rising temperatures...

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 Mini...