The
National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) on Sunday concluded seminars on
women participation in politics and election for the communities of Mansa
Konko, Farafenni, Janjangbureh and Basse respectively.
The
seminars, which brought together participants from all political parties in the
country as well as activists, were funded by Actionaid International The
Gambia.
The
theme for the seminars was “enhancing women political participation and
representation.”
Speaking
at the Basse seminar, Yusupha Bojang, NCCE Programme Officer, said women
political representation is important, adding that they want to ensure women
graduate from lagging behind to taking the lead.
He
urged participants to share the knowledge gained during the seminar with those
not fortunate to be part of it.
Mr
Bojang noted that women have the right to hold political offices, hence they
should support women candidates seeking political positions.
Kaddy
Janneh, Upper River Region Women’s Bureau Program Officer, said the Gambia
government recognises gender equality and women empowerment as a key factor for
the attainment of social and economic development.
She
added that a number of measures were taken to mainstream women into development
processes.
She
also pointed out the various national acts and policies as well as
international protocols government has signed and established.
She
noted that despite the efforts, few women hold senior government positions and
other executive bodies.
She
said while women are very active in political mobilization for voter turnout
during election, they fall short of patronising women political aspirants.
She
thanked NCCE and Actionaid International The Gambia for organising and funding
the seminar geared towards improving women’s participation and representation
in politics and election.
Jahara
Juwara, Basse Area Council Chairman, in his remarks, said people described
politics as a dirty game but noted that in reality it is not because lives
depend on it.
He
added that politics does not have to be a tribalism affair, attacking and
insulting each other but rather selling agenda and convincing people to join
and vote for you.
He
remarked that politics comes and goes but nationhood and togetherness as
citizens stays forever and, as such, they should not allow politics to divide
them.
Yankuba
J. Marena, chairman of Janjangburah Area Council, said they are all one people
and believe any party that wins would serve the interest of the nation.
