By Mustapha Jallow
Istou Jammeh, widely known as Aisha Jammeh, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) The Gambia, has launched the YELEF Initiative Podcast Studio, a groundbreaking platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of victims of former dictator Yahya Jammeh.
According to officials, the launch themed ‘Amplifying Voices, Advancing Justice: A New Era for Victims’ Stories’, marks a significant step toward justice and healing in The Gambia.
Funded by UNDP The Gambia and the United Nations Human Rights Office, the podcast studio aims to foster meaningful dialogue, ensure victims’ stories are heard, and drive tangible change.
“I am beyond proud of how far I have come—from the simple idea of creating the Victims’ Podcast, dedicated to amplifying the voices of human rights violation victims in The Gambia, to launching an entire podcast studio under the YELEF Initiative,” said Aisha, the founder of the podcast.
Aisha, an outspoken advocate and a victim herself, has been unwavering in her commitment to ensuring justice for victims and accountability for perpetrators. She is the co-founder and program officer at the country’s Victims’ Center, a member of the government’s task force on missing persons, and has recently been appointed as a commissioner for reparations.
“What started as a platform to share victims’ stories has now evolved into a full-fledged initiative dedicated to promoting human rights, accountability, and transitional justice,” she noted.
Jammeh emphasized the urgent need for capacity training for victims, particularly in the aftermath of the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC).
“We realized that many victims lacked the necessary knowledge to fully engage in transitional justice mechanisms, especially in understanding the TRRC’s recommendations. To ensure meaningful participation, their capacities must be strengthened,” she explained.
With funding from UNDP and the post-TRRC unit, they successfully established the victims’ podcast studio.
“This studio is a safe space, open to all civil society organizations—especially those actively working with victims—to discuss transitional justice and post-TRRC processes. I encourage all victim-led organizations and civic groups to utilize this space to share their experiences and advocate for justice,” Aisha urged.
UNDP Resident Representative to The Gambia Mandisa Mashologu commended Aisha and her team for their dedication and resilience. She reflected on their journey and emphasized the importance of continuing to tell the victims’ stories.
“It’s important to acknowledge where you started and how far you have come. This journey is crucial, and we must continue to tell these stories. Congratulations, not just on today’s launch but on the incredible work you’ve been doing since the post-TRRC consultations,” Mashologu stated.
The launch of the YELEF Initiative Podcast Studio is a major milestone in The Gambia’s transitional justice efforts, offering victims a powerful platform to share their experiences, seek justice, and contribute to national healing.
