Held in Wassu, Central River Region North under the theme “Empowering Voices: Strategic Advocacy for Local Impact”, the forum targets civil society, community-based organizations, media, marginalized groups, and decentralization structures.
The training builds on last year’s success and responds to growing demand for stronger civic engagement. Participants are being equipped to articulate community concerns, engage stakeholders, build alliances, and use credible evidence in advocacy.
Ansumana Ceesay, Programme Manager at NCCE, said effective advocacy goes beyond raising voices.
“Evidence gives advocacy credibility. Communication gives advocacy a voice. Alliances give advocacy strength. And strategic action turns advocacy into change,” he said.
Ebrima Kinteh, Principal Regional Administrative Officer for CRR and URR at NHRC, commended NCCE and TANGO for sustaining the initiative. He said the training will strengthen communities’ ability to claim their rights and hold duty-bearers accountable, adding that human rights must remain central to all advocacy efforts.
Hon. Sori Darboe, Councillor for Banni Ward, said the training gives taxpayers the tools to hold leaders accountable.
“This training is very important. It gives them the skills and knowledge to lobby and advocate on issues for the betterment of their lives and communities,” he said.
Participants were urged to place affected communities at the heart of advocacy so that their voices and experiences directly inform decisions that impact their lives.
