By Alhagie Babou Jallow
Alcohol Policy Alliance (APA) The Gambia has recognised two brand new ambassadors: Mr Baba Ceesay, host of the Balance Show at GRTS; and The Gambian Kora Maestro and legend, Mr. Jaliba Kuyateh. The role of the new ambassadors is to raise awareness about the harmful effects of alcohol consumption and to advocate for stronger policies to regulate its availability and promotion in The Gambia. They will also engage with policymakers, civil society organisations, and the public to build support for evidence-based interventions that can reduce the negative impacts of alcohol on society.
Alagie Babou Janneh, Chairman of the Alliance, explained that the Alcohol Policy Alliance Gambia, is an alliance of organisations who are committed to promoting evidence-based policies and interventions to prevent and reduce the harms associated with alcohol use in The Gambia. The Alliance advocates policies that are supported by scientific evidence and have been proven effective in other countries. Janneh went on to say that alcohol use is a major public health issue in The Gambia, with high rates of alcohol-related harm and mortality.
APA Gambia seeks to promote policies that can reduce the prevalence of alcohol use and minimise its negative impacts on individuals, families, and communities. By recognising Messrs Baba Ceesay and Jaliba Kuyateh as ambassadors, the Alliance hopes to strengthen its advocacy efforts and increase awareness about the need for evidence-based policies to regulate alcohol use in The Gambia. Both ambassadors expressed gratitude and appreciation for confidence bestowed on them, and assured them of their fullest support in creating awareness on the dangers of use of drug and alcohol.
