In a statement delivered by Burry Tunkara, President of Association of Domestic Workers and Allied Workers of The Gambia (ADDAD-Gambia), the union joined the global community in celebrating the day under the theme“Give to Gain.”
The statement emphasised that investing in women through equal opportunities, justice, and empowerment is essential for national progress and sustainable development.
According to the union, women remain the backbone of The Gambia’s economy and society, play critical roles across various sectors including agriculture, trade, education, healthcare, and domestic work.
“Women contribute significantly to the development of our country from markets and farms to offices, schools, hospitals and homes,” the statement added. “True national development cannot be achieved without gender equality and social justice.”
GAMTUB therefore urged stakeholders, government institutions, employers, and civil society organisations to prioritise policies and initiatives that strengthen women’s rights and participation in the labour force.
Among its key recommendations, the union called for equal opportunities for women in employment and leadership positions across all sectors, noting that women remain underrepresented in many decision-making spaces.
The organisation also emphasised the need to expand access to education, skills training, and entrepreneurship opportunities for women and girls, arguing that empowering women economically contributes directly to national prosperity.
In addition, GAMTUB highlighted the importance of stronger protections against gender-based violence and workplace harassment, which continue to affect many women across different professions.
The Women’s Section further urged authorities to implement inclusive social policies that safeguard women’s dignity, promote equity, and ensure their full participation in national decision-making processes.
According to the union, creating a supportive environment for women not only advances gender equality but also strengthens families, communities, and the broader economy.
“When women are given equal opportunity, respect, and support, society gains stronger economies, healthier families, and a more prosperous nation,” the statement stressed.
GAMTUB reaffirmed its commitment to promoting gender equality within the labour movement, particularly by encouraging women’s leadership within trade unions and advocating for improved working conditions for women workers.
The union concluded by calling on all Gambians to stand in solidarity and work collectively toward building a future where every woman and girl can realise her full potential.
