The residents made this disclosure during a recent interface between communities and stakeholders, organised by ActionAid International-The Gambia (AAITG). The session attracted security personnel, youth leaders and elders and a cross section of the community.
Many hailed the move in view of the fact that it not only helps strengthen cooperation between security and civil population, but would also engage them in frank discussion.
For Miss Amie Keita, Regional Youth Vice Chairperson for North Bank Region, said the continuous organising of such interface between duty bearers and right holders, would help address some of the doubts and misunderstanding.
“This is platform where we all clear our thoughts and misconceptions among one another. Most times we direct and blame the wrong institutions for our problems but this platform allows us to clear our doubts, make informed choices and hold the right people accountable.”
She thanked ActionAid for the initiative and called on NGOs and government institutions within the region to host initiatives like this frequently. “As ActionAid is complementing the government’s effort, it’s also important for the institutions to come up with initiatives that will enable dialogue among one another.”
Babucarr Topp, from Sabach Sanjal outlined the importance of the gathering, highlighting that it would help them get their problems to the higher authorities.
“This is a very important meeting. We do not have the privilege to meet with the final decision makers. However, gathering like this without immediate stakeholders will help us voice out our problems and where we need intervention with the hope of them getting the information to the higher authorities.”
For his part, Saikou Darboe, program manager ActionAid International, expressed their resolve to close the existing gaps between stakeholders and community members so that they can be informed on who is responsible for what and hold them accountable.
“Accountability is very important. It helps duty bearers and the grassroot to avoid spreading misinformation.”
He thus urged representatives to disseminate information or knowledge gained from the gathering to the people they represent.
Mr Abubacarr D.M. Gibba, a representative from the Ministry of Public Services, called on institutions to be effective in delivering their services to the community and accept accountability.
“We expect all institutions to take the cry of the community seriously and ensure the challenges are displayed in front of the higher authorities.”
Governor of NBR, Hon. Lamin Saidykhan, acknowledged the importance of the dialogue, further expressing appreciation to ActionAid International The Gambia for creating a platform that promotes open communication, community participation, and responsive governance.
“We should be cooperative as community members, be willing to approach our office holders, ask questions and avoid side. This will help us know what your concerns are and make better decisions that benefits all of us as a community.”
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