Gambia marked six decades of collaboration with UNICEF at an event bringing together government ministers, UN officials, and children to assess achievements while pressing for stronger action on remaining challenges. Vice President Muhammed B.S. Jallow praised the partnership for strengthening vaccination programs and expanding access to education, particularly for girls in remote areas, since the agency established its presence in 1964.
UN Resident Coordinator Karl Frédéric Paul acknowledged health and education gains but warned that malnutrition and school dropout rates continue affecting thousands of young people in a nation where children form the majority. Children's National Assembly Speaker Babucarr Sowe highlighted unenforced child protection legislation, calling for safe schools, clean water access, and improved healthcare delivery.
UNICEF Country Representative Nafisa Binte Shafique described the relationship as one of shared commitment while urging faster reforms. Gender Minister Fatou Kinteh emphasized ongoing efforts against child marriage and female genital mutilation as participants agreed that protecting children requires accelerated enforcement and bolder policy decisions.
UN Resident Coordinator Karl Frédéric Paul acknowledged health and education gains but warned that malnutrition and school dropout rates continue affecting thousands of young people in a nation where children form the majority. Children's National Assembly Speaker Babucarr Sowe highlighted unenforced child protection legislation, calling for safe schools, clean water access, and improved healthcare delivery.
UNICEF Country Representative Nafisa Binte Shafique described the relationship as one of shared commitment while urging faster reforms. Gender Minister Fatou Kinteh emphasized ongoing efforts against child marriage and female genital mutilation as participants agreed that protecting children requires accelerated enforcement and bolder policy decisions.
