Hon. Minister of Gender, Children and Social Welfare, Fatou Kinteh, accompanied by PS Amb Habib TB Jarra, took part in the Ministerial Panel Discussion on “Strengthening Regional Social Protection Systems” at the 6th African Union Specialised Technical Committee (STC) on Social Development, Labour and Employment. The Republic of The Gambia reaffirmed its commitment to building stronger, more inclusive social protection systems across Africa. Windhoek, Namibia – July 31, 2026
Speaking at the high-level gathering in Windhoek, the Gambian delegation emphasised that challenges such as gender-based violence, harmful cross-border practices, displacement, and climate-related shocks cannot be addressed in isolation. Instead, they require coordinated regional responses and harmonised frameworks.
She highlighted the ongoing collaboration with ECOWAS, the African Union, and international partners including UNICEF, IOM, UNHCR, and the World Bank. Key areas of progress include: Cross-border protection: Joint initiatives to combat female genital mutilation and child marriage through harmonised laws, advocacy campaigns, and referral mechanisms; Migration and displacement: Development of referral systems and temporary support services for displaced persons, returnees, and migrants, ensuring continuity of care across borders; Disaster preparedness: Strengthening shock-responsive social protection systems and early warning mechanisms to address climate-related risks affecting multiple countries and Disability inclusion: Advancing disability-inclusive social protection through regional platforms and improved access to assistive services.
The Gambian delegation underscored the vital role of Regional Economic Communities (RECs), particularly ECOWAS, in promoting policy harmonisation, portability of benefits, and coordinated responses to crises.
At the national level, The Gambia is translating regional commitments into action through the newly launched National Social Protection Policy (2026–2035), the establishment of the National Social Protection Agency, the creation of the Gambia Social Registry, and strengthened legal frameworks addressing gender-based violence and child protection.
Decore nusquam comprehensam quo at, audire maluisset patrioque no mel. Cu partem scriptorem nec, constituam eum in voluptatibus.
