The event took place at the TANGO Conference Hall in Kanifing and was attended by over 40 women leaders from various sectors.
In her opening remarks, Amie Touray, TANGO’s Research and Monitoring & Evaluation Officer, explained the purpose of the forum, emphasising the importance of popularizing the TRRC recommendations.
She stated: “In 2017, the TRRC was established to investigate human rights violations that occurred during the 22 years of former President Yahya Jammeh's rule. Following the Commission’s report, the government released a White Paper in 2022. Today, we are here to examine those recommendations and the extent of their implementation.”
Touray highlighted that the White Paper addresses various thematic areas, which would be discussed during the sessions by key facilitators, including Mr. Abdou Manneh from the National Human Rights Commission and a representative from the Ministry of Justice’s Post-TRRC Unit will also provided insights into the government's progress and mechanisms for implementation.
Welcoming the participants on behalf of TANGO’s Executive Director, Senior Program Officer Alagie Cham stressed the significance of women's involvement in the justice and reconciliation process. “Women make up the majority of our society, and their voices must be heard in decision-making processes. They should be honored and empowered,” he asserted.
Cham acknowledged the TRRC's vital work, particularly its transparent approach, but noted that many people remain unaware of the government’s White Paper. “This forum is necessary to enlighten the public, especially women leaders, about the contents and importance of this document,” he added.
He encouraged participants to act as ambassadors for the initiative by sharing the knowledge gained during the forum within their communities to promote broader awareness and engagement in the transitional justice process.
