Officials say the exercise comes amid growing concern over the lack of reliable data on the number, location, and conditions of childcare facilities operating in the country.
The listing process is expected to strengthen monitoring mechanisms by providing regional authorities, social workers, families, and policymakers with accurate information to assess, support, and regulate these centres. It also seeks to improve transparency and accountability in the care of vulnerable children.
Marie Adams, PAPEV Project Coordinator, said the initiative is designed to ensure that all childcare residential centres meet minimum standards of care and protection.
“This regional engagement is key to strengthening child protection systems and ensuring that every centre is properly assessed and held accountable,” she noted.
Vice Chairman of Brikama Area Council, Cherno Jallow, commended the project for supporting government efforts to document childcare facilities, emphasising the council’s commitment to safeguarding children’s welfare.
Security officials also underscored the importance of the initiative. Regional Immigration Commissioner and Police Deputy Commissioner for the West Coast Region, Demba Sowe, highlighted the role of security institutions in protecting children through specialised gender and child welfare units.
He noted that having accurate data on children in residential care will significantly improve tracking, monitoring, and response to child protection concerns.
Deputising for the Governor, Musa Baldeh stressed that access to reliable childcare data is essential for effective policy planning and enforcement.
He added that safeguarding children’s welfare is a fundamental human right enshrined in Gambian laws and international conventions.
