By: Binta Jaiteh
The Vice President Muhammed BS. Jallow in collarboration with UNICEF discussed critical measures geared towards protecting the rights of children.
The high level convergence held at State House highlighted pressing challenges faced by children especially in Majalis schools.
VP Jallow commended UNICEF for its continuous support to the government.
He affirmed government’s commitment to protecting children acknowledging the existing challenges in fulfilling children’s rights.
The Vice President assured government’s support to coordinate with all relevant sectors to ensure children’s protection and education.
UNICEF Representative Ms. Nafisa Binte Shafique congratulated the Government on the successful submission of its periodic report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child.
According to her, Vice President suggested for a strong inter-ministerial coordination regarding the outcomes and the implementation process received from the committee.
She maintained UNICEF’s unwavering commitment to support the Government through the journey.
The UNICEF representative informed the VP on the support provided by UNICEF for the establishment of a child rights centre with the University of The Gambia and National Human Rights Commission.
Ms. Shafique raised eyebrows over the escalating child rights violations issues within Majalis (Islamic schools) centres. She also highlighted recent alarming incidents, including scabies outbreaks and a tragic fire incident at Sinchu that claimed the lives of two children.
“I demand proactive measures to safeguard these vulnerable children emphasizing the importance of leveraging existing policies, coordinated interventions and actions,” she remarked.
She insisted for enhanced monitoring of child safeguarding measures in Majalis schools and the strict upholding of laws that will guarantee every child’s rights including the right to quality education and protection.
The UNICEF Representative pleaded with the government to increase financial support of key initiatives such as the procurement of Ready-to-use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) which will be essential for treating severe acute malnutrition.