Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Gambia on Monday commemorated 60 years of UNICEF’s presence in the country, celebrating six decades of collaboration that have advanced child health, education, protection, and participation.
The anniversary, held at the OIC Conference Centre, also coincided with the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, drawing government officials, UN representatives, development partners, and children to reflect on progress and renew commitments toward child welfare.
Children took center stage at the celebration. Hon. Babacarr Sowe, Speaker of the Children’s National Assembly, delivered remarks on behalf of young Gambians, expressing gratitude to UNICEF for strengthening children’s voices in national decision-making.
“We want to grow up in a country where every child is safe, educated, and heard,” he said. He also pointed to UNICEF’s upcoming adolescent program and a new child-rights animation series as innovative tools for empowering young people.
UN Resident Coordinator Karl Frederick Paul underscored the urgency of investing in children, noting that they constitute 64 percent of the population. “If 60 percent of the population are children, then 60 percent of our urgency must be directed toward them,” he said.
While acknowledging UNICEF’s longstanding support across health, education, and child protection, he cautioned that challenges such as malnutrition, school dropout rates, vulnerability to violence, and climate-related risks persist.
Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare, Hon. Fatou Kinteh, praised UNICEF’s contribution to advancing child rights, expanding immunization and early childhood development programs, promoting inclusive education, and supporting efforts to combat harmful practices, including child marriage and FGM. “Every child deserves protection, education, and a chance to reach their potential,” she said.
Vice President Muhammad B.S. Jallow described the partnership between UNICEF and The Gambia as a “diamond bond,” recognizing its role in strengthening healthcare systems, promoting girls’ education, and improving child protection. “Investing in children is investing in the future of our nation,” he stated.
Since establishing its presence in 1964, UNICEF has supported a wide range of initiatives in The Gambia, from immunization campaigns and early childhood development to social protection services and the creation of the Children’s National Assembly – programs that have solidified structures safeguarding children’s rights and ensuring their voices shape national priorities.
The ceremony concluded with renewed calls from children and policymakers to accelerate action. While acknowledging the progress of the past 60 years, speakers stressed that the work is far from complete.
The central message of the day was clear: children are not merely beneficiaries of development, they are essential partners in building a safer, healthier, and brighter future for the country.
