By Sariba Manneh
Fatou Kinteh, the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Welfare, has reiterated government’s dedication to providing inclusive environment to persons with disabilities (PWDs) that caters their basic needs.
“My ministry will work closely with all relevant ministries and stakeholders to ensure a barrier-free environment and an inclusive public service for all persons with disabilities,” she stated.
Speaking at the International Disability Day celebrations and the congress of the Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD), Mrs Kinteh emphasized government’s commitment to implement the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and to mainstream disability in the SDG implementation. She highlighted some significant milestones including the ratification of the UNCRPD in 2015, the passage of ‘Persons With Disability Bill 2021’, and the establishment of the ‘National Disability Advisory Council’.
Landing B. Sanneh, Chairperson of Mansakonko Area Council, affirmed his Council’s readiness to collaborate with PWDs for their inclusion and development.
Muhammed Krubally, the Chairperson of the GFD, reiterated the importance of solidarity among stakeholders to achieving the SDG agenda and upholding the rights of PWDs.
Sirra Horeja Ndow, UNAIDS Country Director, commended The Gambia’s efforts in ratifying and domesticating disability rights conventions and pledged continued UN support towards inclusiveness and zero discrimination for PWDs. She outlined the UN’s initiatives aimed at addressing the challenges faced by PWDs including HIV prevention and education programs, and reiterated the UN’s commitment to disability inclusion through its Disability Inclusion Strategy.
