The Gambia Food and Nutrition Association (GAFNA) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare of displaced persons living in The Gambia, calling for deeper solidarity, sustainable support, and greater inclusion of refugees in national development processes.
Speaking at the commemoration of World Refuges Day in Foni, West Coast Region on Friday, Executive Director Yusufa J. Gomez said displaced communities must not be left behind.
“Solidarity means honouring refugees, listening to their stories, and advocating for their right to safety,” he stated. “Our commitment is unwavering we stay and deliver.”
GAFNA, a national NGO founded in 1986, has partnered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) for over 30 years to provide humanitarian support to refugees and asylum seekers across The Gambia.
Gomez said their work focuses on livelihoods, water access, education, and protection services in both urban and rural host communities. He emphasized that GAFNA’s approach is based on self-reliance and dignity, with targeted support shaped by annual needs assessments.
Among the interventions listed were water systems for schools and vegetable gardens, agricultural input and tools, scholarships for tertiary education, gender-based violence prevention activities, and vocational training for economic empowerment.
“We believe in building self-reliance, and some of the refugees we support are already giving back serving in village development committees, religious roles, and contributing to the Gambian workforce,” Gomez said.
He further acknowledged the critical support provided by the U.S. Embassy in Banjul in complementing UNHCR’s funding to meet development needs.
Quoting UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Mary Maker, Gomez called for displaced persons to be seen not only as beneficiaries but as partners in development. “Include us at the table. Make us co-creators,” the quote reads.
Gomez closed his remarks by expressing gratitude to the Government of The Gambia and host communities for offering peace, hospitality, and a sense of belonging to those seeking refuge in the country.