By Sarjo M Camara
The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare recently commenced a two-day National Women’s Council Meeting, which concluded on 14th May 2025. This marked the first quarterly meeting of the ‘17th National Women Councillors’ since its inauguration by His Excellency President Adama Barrow on 18th November 2024 at Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, International Conference Centre.
During the morning proceedings, women leaders from across the country elected a new Deputy Chairperson of the Council, Mrs. Jack Ceesay, Lady Councillor for New Yundum, West Coast Region.
The meeting served to orient council members on their roles and responsibilities, the mandate. of the Ministry, and its key programmes and initiatives. Councillors were introduced to various sectoral activities, including family strengthening and support funds, disability support, and the promotion of children’s rights.
In her opening statement, the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Welfare, Hon. Fatou Kinteh, described the councillors as the “National Assembly of Women,” emphasising their responsibility to represent and embody the voices and aspirations of Gambian women.
“Women are the backbone of every society; meaningful development cannot be achieved without their active participation in decision-making processes,” she stated.
Minister Kinteh also emphasised the significance of the Council as a non-partisan platform committed to advancing women’s agenda, where their needs and aspirations can be expressed and addressed.
Mrs. Ramata Gigo, Chairperson of the National Women’s Council, remarked that the first quarterly meeting since the Council’s inauguration represents a significant milestone in the nation’s ongoing commitment to women’s empowerment and gender equality.
“I am pleased to acknowledge the presence of our esteemed Hon. Minister of Gender, Children and Social Welfare. Your steadfast leadership and tireless dedication to the rights and welfare of women continue to inspire and guide our work,” Mrs Gigo remarked.
She also expressed gratitude to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for her continued support, and acknowledged President Barrow for presiding over the inauguration and swearing-in of the current council members.
“His Excellency’s continued support is a powerful affirmation of the value placed on women’s leadership and their role in national development,” she noted.
She further commended the efforts of Gambian women, especially the former women councillors, for their dignified service, dedication, and lasting contributions, which, she acknowledged, have laid the foundation for the progress being made today.
“This meeting provides a valuable platform to assess our progress, align strategic goals, and strengthen our collective resolve to uplift women at all levels of society,” she noted .
