Therefore, the contribution of women in economic empowerment of households and even communities cannot be overemphasised.
Suffice it to state here that many senior government officials are enjoying the comfort of life, thanks to the handwork and support of their loving mothers, who, despite the scorching sun, toil to pay school fees, take care of daily lunch, feeding and the list goes on. These women are indeed worthy of commendation for their selfless sacrifice and now allowing others to look on their children and even family.
In their provinces or peri-urban areas, many women are involved in gardening projects at their backyard gardens and it is through these activities that they use to support their respective families.
However, in more populated settlements like the Greater Banjul area, getting access or having enough space to use as a garden may be hard to get. This is because increasing number of spaces are turned either into residential areas or recreational facilities.
It is in the news that women gardeners of Kololi despite their plea to allow them use a space in Kololi as a garden are on the verge of eviction, following the sale of the land to an unknown investor.
In fact it was in June 2017, when the women gardeners pleaded with the government to help them stay in the garden after they were given two-month ultimatum by GAM Petroleum to vacate.
Many of these women are contributing immensely to the socio-economic development of their respective families.
We therefore call on the government to revisit its decision or identify a suitable place where these garden women would now use to make a living. Government should reason that each individual garden woman is supporting a good number of households.
Women’s inclusion in self supporting ventures is key and helps in shaping a more democratic, stabilised and developed society. The government can wipe out their tears within a twinkle of an eye.
We applaud these women for their courage and determination to engage in self empowerment ventures. Life is not and will not be an easy ride for all. But engaging in something helps protect one's integrity and persona without letting other people know your family situation.