On Monday, 15th April 2024, Commissioners and Staff of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) paid a courtesy visit to the Vice President of The Gambia, His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow at State House, Banjul. Fruitful discussions were held regarding the Commission’s roles and mandate concerning Human Rights issues in The Gambia.
The Chairperson of NHRC, Mr Emmanuel D. Joof, expressed satisfaction with the meaningful interaction. “We also took the opportunity to thank His Excellency the Vice President and the Gambia Government for the support that they have given to this commission. Because it is during the tenure of this government that the National Human Rights Commission’s act was enacted and assented to; and also, the commissioners of the commission were sworn in by His Excellency President Barrow,” he stated.
Established by the NHRC Act 2017, the National Human Rights Commission marks The Gambia's first-ever National Human Rights Commission with a mandate to promote and protect human rights. One of its key functions is to investigate violations of any human right, either at its own initiative or through complaints from individuals or groups.
Additionally, the Commission formulates guidelines, policies, and Standard Operating Procedures to ensure that state institutions, including law enforcement, adhere to human rights standards consistent with the rule of law and justice.