PWDs in Lower River Region demand voice, access and representation

By Alieu Jallow

Persons with disabilities (PWDs) in The Gambia’s Lower River Region have raised fresh concerns over exclusion from decision‑making, barriers to education, and difficulties in accessing justice, particularly when engaging with the police.

The issues were highlighted during a Technical Advisory Committee meeting at the Governor’s Office in Mansa Konko, organised with support from ActionAid International The Gambia to strengthen accountability and improve development outcomes.

In a hall filled with community members, civil society actors and local government representatives, participants spoke openly about the realities confronting PWDs. Central to the discussions were inclusion, education access, and the lack of support systems for children and adults with disabilities.

Burang Baldeh, a teacher living with a disability, voiced frustration at what he described as systemic neglect. He said access to education remains a major hurdle due to the absence of facilities and tailored support. He also questioned how police handle complaints from those who are deaf, hard of hearing or non‑verbal: “Disabilities come in different forms. Imagine persons who are hard of hearing, the deaf and the dumb. When they get to the police station, who is there to handle their complaints and communicate effectively?”

Baldeh stressed that the lack of trained personnel and inclusive communication systems leaves many vulnerable and unheard. He also pointed to underrepresentation: “The issue is, we are not represented even at the national level. In the National Assembly, in the Cabinet, we are not there. We need representation so that our voices can be heard.”

Drawing from his own experience, he acknowledged efforts by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education to employ persons with disabilities but said structural challenges remain. He called for greater government support in accommodation, transport and assistive services: “I want children living with disabilities to have equal rights like everyone else and complete their schooling… If we are provided with transportation, we can learn to the highest level.”

Other participants echoed similar concerns, citing discrimination in schools and urging stronger enforcement of the Disability Act of 2021.

Stakeholders at the meeting agreed more inclusive policies and practical interventions are needed. Participants urged authorities to move beyond commitments and take concrete steps to ensure equal representation, accessible services and dignity for all.