By Fatou Bojang
In a session characterized by open inquiries and a demand for accountability, the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Welfare, Honorable Fatou Kinteh, addressed the National Assembly regarding implementing the Disability Act 2021.
Although she outlined several advancements, lawmakers expressed concerns about the slow pace of implementation and the sufficiency of funding for disability initiatives.
Minister Kinteh highlighted the annual allocation of four million dalasis to establish a disability fund, asserting that progress has been made in several areas, including financial support and rehabilitation programs.
She detailed the achievements under the Disability Act, mentioning that the National Rehabilitation Center in Banjul is now equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and provides wheelchair support and repairs for assistive devices to approximately 3,500 individuals.
Kinteh emphasized the ministry’s collaboration with the Gambia Federation of the Disabled and the Disability Advisory Council to enhance program implementation.
To support visually impaired students, plans are underway to provide laptops equipped with specialized software at the University of The Gambia library. The Minister also noted that awareness campaigns on international disability rights conventions, such as CEDAW and CRPD, have reached 60 individuals. In contrast, over 5,500 persons with disabilities receive monthly cash transfers to improve their financial stability.
Minister Kinteh announced the upcoming opening of a new rehabilitation facility in Bansang, Central River Region. The facility is expected to be operational before the end of the year, and all necessary equipment has already been procured.
When questioned about the impact of the disability fund, Minister Kinteh acknowledged that although various organizations have established programs, the current funding is insufficient. “We are appealing to the Assembly to increase this funding,” she stated, highlighting the need for more resources to meet the needs of persons with disabilities effectively.
Hon. Modou Lamin Bah of Banjul Central initiated the discussion by asking pointed questions about the delays in implementing the Act. Despite the advancements, Hon. Bah reiterated his concerns regarding the gaps in implementing the Disability Act. Deputy Speaker Seedy Njie urged lawmakers to pose constructive inquiries and avoid making statements. However, Hon. Bah emphasized his duty to seek clarification on the persistent challenges, stressing the urgency of addressing critical gaps.
Hon. Omar Jammeh, NAM for Janjanbureh, also sought further clarification on the delays while the Minister reiterated the progress. The Deputy Speaker acknowledged the concerns raised by the lawmakers but emphasized the necessity for greater urgency and accountability in fulfilling the provisions of the Disability Act.
As the session concluded, the call for enhanced support and expedited implementation of disability initiatives remained a central theme, reflecting the Assembly’s commitment to prioritizing the rights and needs of persons with disabilities in national policy and funding.
