After the usual introductory remark, the lead facilitator, Mr Alieu Jaiteh, underscored the importance of the dialogue because it's related to issues surrounding persons with disabilities in the regions.
He seized the opportunity to highlight the key learning points of the entire dialogue. He urged the stakeholders to contribute meaningfully towards addressing the issues of persons of disabilities in The Gambia.
Mr Jaiteh discussed the challenges, existing gaps, opportunities and the laws surrounding issues of PWD.
Malang Jarju, a representative from the Area Council, shared his life-long experience as a PWD.
He disclosed that he did fail some examinations due to inadequate support and poor handwriting.
He encouraged the stakeholders to take the issues of persons with disabilities “very seriously” and no one is safe because disability can be attained through birth, disease and accidents.
“There have been so many workshops on PWD but the issues surrounding PWD continues to be in the increase day in day out in the country,”Jarju said.
Mrs Yamundow Jagne Joof, a police officer, thanked Mr Jaiteh for the amazing presentation, adding that Mr Jaiteh speaks regarding issues of PWD.
Mrs Jagne Joof stated that citizens need to change their attitudes towards supporting and providing the necessary needs for the PWD in the country.
She further said that the police are doing their best to train some female officers on sign language and interpretation to ease communication between the police and the PWD.
Modou A.F. Bahoum, a representative from the Children National Assembly, said there is lacking of implementation, investment and enforcement of the laws surrounding persons with disabilities.
‘‘People have now realised that PWD have been performing extremely well in the academic arena,’’ Bahoum said.
He urged the Ministry of Gender and Interior to be committed to implementing all the laws of PWD in the country accordingly.
Hon. Tida Barrow, a member of the Children’s National Assembly- The Gambia, appealed to the government to look at the issues of PWD in the country.
“Let the government provide accessibility, affordability and conducive environment so that PWD will participate fully towards national development,” Bahoum said, adding: “Stakeholders unanimously acknowledged the important role that persons with disabilities can play during decision making process, if they are given the opportunity to share their thoughts and aspirations.”
The National Youth Council (NYC) through the program officer for communication and advocacy, Mariama Sima, thanked Mr Jaiteh, the lead facilitator, the stakeholders and UNICEF Gambia for making the activity very historic.
Source: National Youth Council
