The training, which brought together 40 grassroots participants including women and youth leaders, religious figures, and elders from various communities, was held on the theme “Understanding Gender Roles, Power, and Environment for Inclusive Development”.
It was designed to strengthen participants’ capacity to integrate gender perspectives into community development efforts. The sessions were facilitated by Mr. Mustapha S. Koli, from the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare, whose expertise enriched discussions on gender roles, power relations, and the intersection between gender and environmental sustainability.
At the event, Ms. Rose T. Mendy Senior Programme Officer at Future in Our Hands and lead implementer of the training, reminded that the training marks a significant step in empowering our communities through knowledge and inclusive practices".
She emphasized that gender equality is not just a women's issue, but a critical component of sustainable development.
“When we understand the roles, challenges, and contributions of all genders, we create stronger, more resilient communities,” she added.
Rose highlighted that the programme was designed to help grassroots women, youth, elders, and religious leaders reflect on how gender roles and power dynamics affect decision-making, resource access, and development outcomes.
She encouraged participants to participate actively, pointing out that real change begins at the community level. “This initiative is about building local capacity to challenge stereotypes, end harmful practices, and develop gender-responsive solutions that reflect the realities of our people.”
She also recognized the efforts of Ms. Natalia Keiliba, who played a key role in coordination and engagement throughout the week.
Speaking earlier, Mr. Yunusa, Public Relations Officer of Kerr Mamma, who welcomed participants on behalf of the host community, acknowledged the importance of empowering local voices in development planning.
Throughout the five days, participants engaged in highly interactive sessions including group discussions, scenario analyses, debates, case studies, simulations, and practical community mapping.
Key topics covered included: Foundational gender concepts; Gender-based violence (GBV) and legal frameworks; Labor division and time-use analysis; Power dynamics and access to resources; Community-led gender programming and action planning.
A notable highlight of the programme was the recognition of Mamadou Cherno Jallow, one of the youth participants, who accorded the opportunity to study Journalism and Videography. This initiative underscores the programme’s commitment to identifying and nurturing local leadership potential beyond the training room.
The training culminated in the establishment of gender committees and the drafting of localized gender action plans, ensuring that the knowledge gained translates into practical outcomes. Participants also received certificates of completion during a celebratory closing ceremony.
This timely initiative not only fostered a deeper understanding of gender equality among community stakeholders but also laid the foundation for more equitable and inclusive development efforts across Upper Nuimi.
