The organization has launched a training program bringing together community members and key stakeholders to strengthen skills in mediation, dialogue, and early conflict detection. The goal is to equip participants to identify potential sources of tension and prevent disputes from escalating before, during, and after the elections.
Opening the training, Francis D. Mendy, National Director of Caritas Gambia, stressed the need for collective responsibility and peacebuilding during the electoral period.
He called on citizens to embrace tolerance, dialogue, and respect despite political differences. The program, he said, will also facilitate inclusive dialogue between communities and political actors to reduce polarization.
“The programme will equip local leaders and community members with the knowledge and skills to prevent and resolve election-related disputes,” Mendy stated. “It will also empower women and young people to play an active role in peacebuilding and the electoral process.”
Deputy Governor of the West Coast Region, Musa Amul Nyassi, commended Caritas for its work and urged all stakeholders to promote peaceful coexistence throughout the electoral cycle.
“This is the only country you and I have,” Mr Nyassi said. “There is nothing wrong with us having different political ideologies. But at the end of the day, we must all coexist and be tolerant of one another. That is what politics is all about.”
He added that political differences should not be used to suppress others. “Your ideology may differ from mine, but that does not mean I should suppress you. I am at liberty to sell my political agenda and manifesto to the electorate. It is for them to listen and decide.”
Mr Nyassi stressed that every political actor has an equal right to present their platform, and that voters must be allowed to make the final decision. “What we must treasure is the peace and stability that this country is enjoying,” he said.
The training is expected to strengthen community capacity to detect and address conflicts early, while encouraging peaceful participation in the democratic process.
With the 2026 polls approaching, stakeholders say sustained dialogue, tolerance, and respect for democratic values will be critical to maintaining peace and stability nationwide. Caritas Gambia has reaffirmed its commitment to working with communities and partners to promote peaceful coexistence and conflict prevention across the country.
