On Monday, November 06th 2023, the International Social Protection Conference opened with a resounding commitment from Vice President Mohammed B.S Jallow, representing President Adama Barrow, to address social protection challenges in The Gambia. The conference, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center, brought together leaders, policymakers, and experts to tackle crucial issues related to social welfare and development. Vice President Jallow underscored the government's commitment to addressing these challenges, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which had a profound impact on vulnerable populations and economic stability.
Furthermore, Vice President Jallow made a groundbreaking announcement during his speech, unveiling the government's ambitious long-term plan to establish a comprehensive social protection system by 2035. This forward-looking initiative aligns with both domestic and international commitments, signalling The Gambia's dedication to improving the well-being of its citizens.
The key pillars of The Gambia's Social Protection system, as highlighted during the conference, include: safeguarding the welfare of the poorest, protecting against shocks, promoting livelihoods, reducing social risks, and strengthening governance.
The theme of the conference, "Accelerating Social Protection Financing to Increase Coverage and Reach," reflects the government's commitment to expanding social protection in line with international commitments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 1948.
Mrs. Cordu L. Jabang-Senghore, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of The Vice President of The Gambia, delivered a warm welcome to all participants at the opening of this three-day international conference. Delegates from Kenya, Ghana, Belgium, as well as online participants from Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States, gathered to exchange knowledge and experiences on the conference theme and other critical social protection policy matters.
This conference served as a vital platform for dialogue and the sharing of insights related to the pathway and vision of social protection, not only in The Gambia but also on a global scale. It also provided an opportunity for the government to report on the progress and challenges faced in implementing the National Social Protection Policy (2015 – 2025).
The event was further distinguished by the presence of Her Excellency Madam Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, the First Lady of The Gambia. Additionally, powerful statements were delivered by the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, the United Nations Resident Coordinator for The Gambia, and the European Union Representative.
In line with The Gambia Government's aspirations and the Social Protection Implementation Plan, the government continues to prioritize access to education, access to healthcare for all, provide agricultural input support to farmers, offer social welfare services, and promote gender empowerment, among other vital initiatives.
The government expressed its gratitude to its partners, including the World Bank, European Union in The Gambia, United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), World Food Programme (WFP), Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), U.S. Embassy Banjul, The Gambia, United Nations National Population Fund (UNFPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) for their unwavering commitment to social security.
The International Social Protection Conference has set a robust foundation for discussions and collaboration, highlighting The Gambia's dedication to enhancing the lives of its citizens through comprehensive social protection and development initiatives.
