UNICEF has reiterated its dedication to fostering a more inclusive and equitable future for children in The Gambia.
Speaking at the “End-of-Year Review of the UNICEF-Gambia Government Country Programme for Children 2024-2028,” Armand Gnahore, UNICEF’s Deputy Representative in The Gambia, highlighted the organisation’s unwavering support for initiatives that prioritise children’s welfare. The forum, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo, brought together stakeholders from various sectors to reflect on achievements and challenges.
Gnahore commended the Gambian government, civil society organisations, and other partners for their collaborative efforts to advance the rights and well-being of children and women. He underscored the significant progress made in key areas such as access to social services, improved systems, and expanded mechanisms to support vulnerable populations. These achievements align with The Gambia’s National Development Plan 2023-2027 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
However, Gnahore acknowledged persistent challenges, including rising inequalities, child poverty, climate vulnerabilities, and the need for greater investment in critical sectors such as education, health, nutrition, and water and sanitation. He urged participants to build on the year’s successes and collaborate with renewed determination to address these issues.
In his opening remarks, Alieu Loum, Deputy Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, encouraged attendees to contribute meaningful inputs to the programme documents, ensuring the best outcomes for Gambian children. Loum praised UNICEF’s efforts in complementing the government’s national development initiatives.
The forum reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to creating a brighter and more equitable future for every child in The Gambia.
