By Binta Jaiteh
The Japanese Ambassador to The Gambia, Takeshi Akamatsu, has pledged his country’s commitment towards strengthening Gambia’s health and education sectors.
The pledge was made on Wednesday during an event at McCarthy Square in Banjul, organized by UNICEF with funding from the Japanese government. The initiative aims to address severe acute malnutrition nationwide and equip teachers with tools to deliver high-quality, engaging education to students.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Akamatsu highlighted the long-standing relationship between Japan and The Gambia, founded on shared values including democracy and the rule of law.
“Through close cooperation across multiple sectors, our two countries have worked together to address challenges and promote inclusive development. This ceremony reflects our shared commitment to improving the lives of young people,” he said.
He noted the growing impact of climate change, particularly on vulnerable groups such as mothers and children, and emphasized that resilient health, nutrition, water, and sanitation systems, alongside the empowerment of the next generation, were essential for national stability and sustainable development.
“The projects being handed over today respond directly to these critical needs, reflecting Japan’s commitment to human-centered development, especially in Africa,” Ambassador Akamatsu added.
Minister of Health Dr. Momodou Samateh welcomed the support, describing it as a celebration of partnership, solidarity, and a shared commitment to maternal, newborn, and child health. He highlighted Japan’s ongoing contributions to address climate change impacts on health and nutrition in the country.
“Climate change is reshaping our health and food security landscape. With a population dependent on rain-fed agriculture and vulnerable coastal communities, our health system remains sensitive to environmental shocks,” Dr. Samateh remarked.
UNICEF Country Representative Nafisa Binte Shafique assured continued collaboration between UNICEF, the Gambian government, and Japan. She highlighted Japan’s supplementary budget support, which strengthened maternal and child health, nutrition, and WASH services. She also made reference to Japan’s TICAD grant, which continued to support digital learning in 122 schools, equipping children with 21st-century skills.
“Together, these initiatives represent a holistic approach to ensuring Gambian children thrive. They address survival, development, health, education, resilience and innovation,” Ms. Shafique remarked.
Other speakers included Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Dr. Habibatou Drammeh who underscored the importance of Japan’s support for educational advancement.
The event highlights how climate change intersects with public health, development, and national security in The Gambia, underscoring the need for resilient and innovative interventions.