The National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) has successfully held a nationwide capacity-building workshop on lobbying and advocacy skills, training over 200 stakeholders from various regions and organisations.
The program themed, “Advocacy Playbook: Demand Rights and Influence Policy,” aimed to empower participants to engage in strategic advocacy and lobbying to promote inclusion and defend participatory rights.
With support from TANGO and the EU-UNDP Great project, the NCCE is working to strengthen civic engagement and promote a just, accountable democracy in The Gambia.
Ansumana Ceesay, the program manager at NCCE said this foundational knowledge will enhance participant’s ability to engage in effective advocacy and lobbying efforts.
He noted that participants should serve as bridges between grassroots communities while policy tables reinforces the role of civic engagement in building a more just and accountable society.
Ansumana urged participants to be a “movement of action,” inspiring collective responsibility and commitment to create a society where every voice is heard and valued.
He said this kind of leadership can drive meaningful change and foster a more equitable and just community.
The NCCE program manager felicitated TANGO and the EU-UNDP Great project, urging trainees to share their newfound skills widely.
He added that NCCE aims to amplify the impact of the training, promoting a ripple effect that can benefit more individuals and communities across The Gambia.
Mr. Bakary Singhateh, the Executive Coordinator for Kanifing Municipality encouraged participants to serve as NCCE ambassadors.
He called on participants to promote a sense of ownership and responsibility so as to make an impact as active citizens in fostering positive change in The Gambia.
Hon. Ndey Saine, Councillor representing Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) at the Brikama Area Council called on her consequents to be assertive and demand their rights as their voices matter and participation is crucial.
She stressed the need for the promotion of self-empowerment and inclusivity to create a society where everyone, regardless of ability, can contribute and thrive.
