By Dawda M Jallow
WAVE-Gambia has concluded a three-day community sensitisation campaign in Fulladu District, reaching 300 women with messages on political rights, digital safety and protection against violence and harassment in political participation.
The campaign, held from 11th to 14th August 2026, covered six communities with financial support from the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI).
It brought together women, community and religious leaders, National Assembly representatives, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), the Gambia Police Force, the National Youth Council and other stakeholders.
The sensitization focused on violence against women in politics (VAWP), including bullying, intimidation, physical attacks, online harassment and hate speech. Participants were also informed about mechanisms available for reporting such incidents and seeking assistance.
At the opening session in Fula Banta, Fulladu National Assembly Member Hon. Gibbi Mballow welcomed participants and highlighted his efforts to secure support from the CFLI for women in the district through WAVE-Gambia.
Facilitators used IEC educational materials, community discussions, question-and-answer sessions and flyers containing reporting contacts to educate participants about their political rights and available support mechanisms.
At Brikamaba on 13 August, 50 women participated in discussions on political rights, unity and collective action. The session encouraged women to support one another and take a more active role in political and public affairs.
Discussions at Taifar Village the following day focused on social pressures affecting women who participate in politics.
Participants raised concerns about political disagreements between spouses, which they said could sometimes lead to serious family disputes and divorce.
Facilitator Madam James condemned harassment, bullying and physical attacks against women in politics and urged participants to remain united.
The women were also informed that WAVE-Gambia planned to train police officers on handling cases involving violence against women in politics.
The campaign further addressed online harassment and hate speech, with discussions at Madina Fali focusing on digital safety and the use of social media platforms, including Facebook and WhatsApp.
WAVE-Gambia staff member Saidykhan led the session, during which participants shared concerns about online abuse and limited knowledge of reporting mechanisms.
Participants were informed that cases could be reported through WAVE-Gambia, women leaders, the police and other established community structures.
One participant, Isatou Gikineh, said harassment occurs in communities but many women remain unaware of where to report such incidents.
Another participant, Fatoumatta Bayo, called for greater support for female candidates and urged women to stand together in political activities.
Community leaders, including Alkalolu (Village heads), Imams and women leaders, expressed their willingness to support mechanisms aimed at preventing and responding to violence against women in politics.
WAVE-Gambia recommended extending the sensitisation programme to other districts, strengthening police capacity to handle VAWP cases, establishing focal persons at police stations and improving referral systems.
The organisation also called for further training for women on civic participation and digital safety.
WAVE-Gambia said the Fulladu campaign demonstrated women’s willingness to participate in political activities when provided with adequate protection, civic education, leadership training and support.
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