The graduation ceremony, held under the theme “Empowering Households for Gender Equality, Inclusive Decision-Making, and Resilient Livelihoods,” brought together beneficiaries, project officials and community members to celebrate the achievements of participants who completed the training programme.
The initiative focused on equipping households with practical tools to improve communication, strengthen joint decision-making and enhance sustainable income planning, particularly within rural communities.
Speaking at the event, Regional ROOTS Coordinator Kaddy Bojang described the programme as a transformative initiative that is helping to foster peace, cooperation and shared responsibility within families.
She said the GALS approach has contributed significantly to resolving household disputes, encouraging inclusive participation and empowering women to take part in decisions affecting their families and livelihoods.
Ms. Bojang urged graduates to continue applying the skills and knowledge gained from the training and to champion the GALS methodology within their communities.
“The knowledge you have acquired should not end here. Continue to promote dialogue, cooperation, and shared planning in your households and communities,” she told graduates.
Participants who shared testimonies during the ceremony highlighted the positive impact the training has had on their lives and livelihoods.
Many graduates reported major improvements in their economic activities and living conditions, including the installation of water boreholes for gardening, the purchase of fishing canoes, construction of household toilets and fences, and building improved family homes.
Beneficiaries said the changes have strengthened their financial stability, improved family welfare and increased cooperation between spouses in managing household affairs.
Mustapha Camara, ROOTS Field Assistant for Farmer Organization Capacity Development, said the programme has introduced a new culture of collaboration among families.
According to him, before the introduction of the GALS methodology, many households operated independently, with little communication between husbands and wives on matters affecting their livelihoods and development.
He explained that the training has encouraged couples to sit together, discuss their goals and jointly plan for the future of their families.
“The GALS approach has changed the mindset of many households. Families are now working together to improve their livelihoods and make decisions collectively,” he stated.
Foni Berefet GALS Community Focal Person Kaddy Jatta also praised the impact of the initiative, noting that the 2022 cohort who underwent extensive knowledge-deepening sessions are now well prepared to drive positive transformation in their communities.
She said graduates are increasingly becoming role models and advocates for gender equality, inclusive decision-making and sustainable rural development.
The ROOTS Project continues to play a key role in improving rural livelihoods, strengthening household resilience and advancing gender equality across communities in The Gambia.
