By Sarjo Camara, communication officer
The Gambia’s Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare, Hon. Fatou Kinteh, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to amplifying children’s voices and strengthening child protection laws.
She made the statement during an engagement with young people on Sunday, March 2.
The event, held in commemoration of International Children’s Day of Broadcasting (ICDB) at the Ministry of Information, Media, and Broadcasting’s conference hall, underscored the vital role of children in nation-building.
In her address, Minister Kinteh highlighted the significance of providing children with platforms to express themselves, aligning with this year’s ICDB theme: “Amplifying Young Voices, Building a Better Future.” She stressed that recognizing and nurturing children’s contributions is essential for a progressive society.
“By creating spaces where children can express themselves—whether through the media, community initiatives, or social platforms—we foster an environment that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and advocacy,” she said.
A Legal Framework for Child Protection
The Gambian government has taken notable steps toward safeguarding children’s rights, including the enactment of the Children’s Act of 2005, the ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), and adherence to the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. These frameworks guarantee children’s access to information, freedom of expression, and protection from exploitation.
Yet, Minister Kinteh acknowledged that significant challenges remain, particularly in the implementation of media-related policies. Limited resources, she noted, hinder training opportunities for media professionals and the development of child-friendly content.
“There is a need for more training for media professionals, the development of appropriate child-friendly content, and stronger enforcement of existing laws,” she stated.
She also pointed to The Gambia’s digital divide as a major barrier, particularly in rural areas where children lack access to technology, educational resources, and media platforms. With the rapid evolution of digital media, she called for updated policies to ensure children’s safety online.
A Call to Action for Media and Society
Hon. Kinteh urged media outlets, educators, and policymakers to do more in ensuring that children’s voices are heard and represented. She called on media organizations to prioritize child-centered programming that reflects young people’s aspirations, concerns, and ambitions.
“It is time to break down barriers and foster open dialogues that support their ambitions,” she said.
As The Gambia marked International Children’s Day of Broadcasting, Minister Kinteh reaffirmed the government’s dedication to empowering young voices as a cornerstone of national development.
“Let us amplify their voices today, for a brighter tomorrow.”
