By Nyima Sonko
On the official launch of the Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) on January 29, 2026, the founder and Executive Director of the Centre, renowned human rights activist Madi Jobarteh described the centre as “a platform for reflection, learning, and national dialogue on human rights, justice, accountability, democracy, and citizen power.”
The launch ceremony was held at the University of The Gambia (UTG) auditorium, marking the 135th birthday of Gambian nationalist pioneer Edward Francis Small (1891-1958).
Further in his keynote address, Jobarteh positioned the new institution as a beacon for human rights advocacy, accountability, and citizen empowerment, vowing to complement government efforts in strengthening The Gambia’s fragile democracy.
He outlined its core aims as: promoting and protecting human rights, advancing democratic governance, bolstering transparency and accountability, and empowering citizens particularly youth and marginalized groups through civic education, research, advocacy, and systemic reforms that prioritize public interest over personal or partisan gain.
“The centre exists to contribute to building a Gambia standing firm on the cherished ideals of E.F. Small,” Jobarteh declared, emphasizing its non-confrontational role. “We are not here to supplant the government or compete with CSOs, but to amplify citizen voices, insist on accountability, and empower an empowered citizenry as democracy’s strongest safeguard.” He stressed sustainable development, peace, and stability are impossible without respect for human rights, rule of law, and accountable leadership.
Jobarteh expressed profound gratitude to Small’s family, inviting them to rise for public recognition and praising their support from the moment he proposed the centre. He lauded moderator Nyang Njie for embodying Small’s values of integrity, courage, and public service; veteran journalist Nana Gray-Johnson for his keynote contribution.
He expressed commitment to “principled advocacy, evidence-based engagement, peaceful but strong action, and constructive collaboration” with civil society, media, institutions, partners, citizens, and diaspora always guided by Gambian laws and shared aspirations for a better nation. “In commemorating E.F. Small, we recommit to ‘never again’ as lived reality: a republic where power serves the people, institutions prioritize public interest, and every Gambian enjoys dignity, opportunity, and hope.”
Other speakers were William Small and Yedicone Njie Njie Eribu, Nana Gray-Johnson, and Philip Saine. They revered the legend EF Small and praised Mr Jobarteh his for renewed patriotism.
