The Gambia Press Union (GPU), in partnership with TANGO, has begun a series of town hall meetings in rural communities to raise awareness about the roles and responsibilities of key governance institutions. The initiative is part of the UNDP-EU GREAT Project, which supports The Gambia’s democratic transition.
The first phase of meetings is being held from August 17–20 in Kerewan and Farafenni (North Bank Region) and Jarra Soma and Masembe (Lower River Region). Participants include community members, traditional leaders, women and youth representatives, persons with disabilities, and local authorities.
GPU Secretary General Modou S. Joof emphasized that the town halls provide an opportunity for institutions such as the Media Council of The Gambia (MCG), the Access to Information Commission, and the Post-TRRC Unit to share credible information that helps communities make informed decisions and combat misinformation.
“The town hall meetings are expected to enhance transparency, accountability, and public trust in the three governance institutions, and strengthen citizens’ participation in governance processes,” Joof said.
At the opening ceremony in Kerewan, Alkalo Bakary Fatty praised the initiative, noting that it allows citizens to directly engage with governance institutions and better understand their work.
GPU Programme Officer Juldeh Njie added that limited knowledge of governance processes hinders meaningful citizen participation, stressing that the meetings will strengthen communication between rural communities and institutions.
As part of the awareness drive, the GPU is distributing t-shirts, note pads, and brochures featuring information on the mandates and responsibilities of the three institutions.
The GPU commended TANGO for its partnership and acknowledged the financial support of the UNDP and EU under the GREAT Project, which aims to foster responsive and democratic governance in The Gambia.
