The Government of The Gambia is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of its constructive dialogue with the Committee on the Rights of the Child during its 98th Session, held at the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland.
This engagement, which took place on 22 January 2025 from 3:00pm to 6:00pm and on the 23 January 2025 from 10:00am to 1:00pm, provided The Gambia the opportunity to present its progress, achievements, and challenges in promoting and protecting the rights of children.
The high-level delegation representing The Gambia was led by H.E. Mrs Fatou Kinteh, Honourable Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare, and supported by H.E. Mr Dawda A. Jallow, Honourable Minister of Justice.
The delegation also included senior officials from key government institutions including the Office of the President, the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, and the National Assembly, with support from the Permanent Mission of The Gambia in Geneva, led by H.E. Ambassador Prof. Muhammadou M.O. Kah.
The constructive dialogue with the Committee was conducted in a spirit of openness, mutual respect, and cooperation, reaffirming The Gambia’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).
During the dialogue, the delegation outlined the significant progress made in advancing children’s rights, including reforms in the administration of juvenile justice, education, healthcare, child protection, and addressing harmful practices such as child marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM). The Committee commended The Gambia’s efforts, including the establishment of the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare, the passage of progressive legislation, and targeted programs addressing the needs of vulnerable children. In turn, the government welcomed the Committee’s observations, recommendations, and guidance as critical inputs to further strengthen its policies and practices to ensure the well-being of all children in The Gambia.
