Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of The Gambia has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of older persons by organizing a stakeholder forum focused on the challenges faced by the elderly population in the country. The forum aimed to create a platform for discussing issues that affect the enjoyment of human rights by older persons, under the theme “Ageing with Dignity in The Gambia.“

The one-day event brought together various stakeholders to explore ways the state and other partners can address the challenges faced by older persons and ensure they lead dignified, healthy, and secure lives as equal members of society.

In her opening remarks, Jainaba Johm, Vice Chairperson of the NHRC, emphasized the Commission’s role in promoting and protecting human rights in The Gambia. She highlighted that the NHRC has established a thematic committee on vulnerable groups, including older persons, to identify solutions to the challenges they face and advise the government on improving their conditions.

“We have a complaints procedure and encourage everyone to report any human rights violations, especially those against older persons,” Johm stated.

She also drew attention to the provisions of the 1997 Constitution and other national legislation that uphold the rights of older persons, particularly older women, and protect them against discrimination and violence. However, Johm expressed concern that there is no basic social protection for older persons in The Gambia, such as specialized care, health insurance, social safety nets, or residential care facilities.

“The majority of older people, especially those with disabilities, live in poverty. There are also allegations that some older persons are denied the right to make decisions about their personal finances, properties, and medical care,” she stressed. She further cited evidence from the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC) witch hunt thematic hearing, which highlighted the violations experienced by older persons, particularly women, in some communities.

The Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare, who also spoke at the forum, underscored the significance of the event as an opportunity to reflect on the challenges faced by the elderly population and to explore strategies to enhance their well-being and rights.

“Elders are the pillars of the community, the custodians of our traditions and culture, the transmitters of our values, and the wisdom keepers of our nation. However, as they age, many older persons face numerous challenges, including poverty, health issues, social isolation, and discrimination. These challenges threaten their dignity and well-being, and it is our collective responsibility to address them,” the Minister posited.

She highlighted the government’s unwavering support for improving the lives of older persons and disclosed plans to expand and renovate the Home for Elderly Care in Bakoteh to ensure their well-being.

The Minister called for collective efforts to overcome the challenges faced by older persons and to create a future where their rights are fully realized. She urged stakeholders to ensure that the forum serves as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and action.

This forum marks a critical step in The Gambia’s ongoing efforts to protect the rights of older persons and ensure they age with dignity in a society that values and respects their contributions.