Disability Symposium: Nothing About Us Without Us: Building an Inclusive Gambia

Event Funder: European Union

Event Organisers: The Governor’s Office in North Bank Region, STAND: We Walk Together

This symposium is part of a 3 year EU funded program being delivered by STAND: We Walk Together (formerly Legs4Africa), The Ladies Empowered for Growth and Success” and Gambia Amputee Football Association which is enhancing the lives of persons with disabilities in Gambia.

The symposium will take place at Farafenni General Hospital, bringing together members of the disability community and their caregivers, ministry leaders, disability groups, and key stakeholders. This event focuses on empowering persons with disabilities, promoting accessibility and rights, and fostering disability inclusion across the community. Health screening for diabetes and hypertension will also be offered to participants as part of the event’s health support services.

Programme Highlights

● Health Screening & Registration: Free health checks for diabetes and hypertension.

● Keynote Addresses & Presentations: Opening remarks and insights from the Department of Social Welfare, Education Sector, and Local Government on disability rights, policy, and inclusive community governance.

● Panel Discussion: Stakeholders explore the core theme, “Nothing About Us Without Us – Building an Inclusive Gambia.”

● Physical Wellness & Rehabilitation: Sessions focused on rehabilitation, mobility support, and physical health management.

● Lived Experiences & Advocacy: Personal survivor stories and localized sessions led by regional disability leadership.

● Final Entertainment (Music) & Networking

Expected attendance: 110 persons

Significant persons attending: Governor/Deputy Governor of NBR, representative from the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare (DSW), Regional Education Officer, Area Council representative, Physiotherapist/Orthopaedic Technician, Salifu Bayo (Disable Chairman), mental health specialist.

Social Media Tags

EU in the Gambia

https://www.facebook.com/EUinTheGambia

STAND: We Walk Together

https://www.facebook.com/standwewalktogether

STAND: We Walk Together (Gambia)

https://www.facebook.com/p/STAND-Gambia-We-Walk-Together-61558847069586

Quote

Alieu Touray – STAND Country Representative and Counselling Manager

“Promoting disability inclusion and accessibility is essential for building a truly equitable society. By addressing key issues surrounding rights, education, and community support, we can empower persons with disabilities and move forward together.”