Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mr. Gaye TheVoice
Published on 2024-03-12 05:47:53
President Adama Barrow recently celebrated International Women’s Day by meeting with various organizations and stakeholders to discuss the empowerment and advancement of women in The Gambia. The meeting, which took place at State House in Banjul, highlighted the importance of recognizing and supporting the contributions of women in different sectors.
During the meeting, President Barrow expressed his commitment to promoting gender equity and equality to drive national development in economic, political, and social aspects. The discussions focused on creating more opportunities for women and girls, with a particular emphasis on supporting marginalized groups. The Maa Foundation, represented by CEO Fatoumata Jawara, advocated for policy changes to increase opportunities for women in business, including a review of procurement procedures.
A South Korean delegation, led by Ambassador Chong-weon Shin, also joined the meeting to discuss strategies for increasing rice production in The Gambia. Rice cultivation is a vital livelihood activity for many Gambian women, and the government aims to support the establishment of rice cultivation complexes to enhance rice seed production and supply systems across the country.
President Barrow acknowledged the importance of self-sufficiency in food production, particularly in rice, stating that it is a national priority to produce enough food for the population. The President also commended the increasing involvement of women in business enterprises and other sectors, citing examples of female contractors and engineers excelling in their respective fields.
Over the years, President Barrow’s administration has collaborated with international and local partners to improve access to healthcare, expand economic opportunities for women and girls, and support women in agriculture, especially in rice and groundnut cultivation. The efforts have led to significant progress in the healthcare sector, with a notable decrease in maternal mortality rates and advancements in immunization programs and tobacco control.
The outgoing country representative of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Desta Tiruneh, commended the Government of The Gambia for its achievements in strengthening healthcare systems and reducing maternal mortality. The country’s progress in healthcare, including the implementation of an immunization program and tobacco control measures, reflects the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services for its citizens.
In conclusion, President Barrow’s meetings with various organizations and stakeholders on International Women’s Day highlighted the importance of promoting gender equality and empowering women in The Gambia. The discussions encompassed a range of topics, from increasing opportunities for women in business to advancing healthcare services and promoting food self-sufficiency through enhanced rice production. The government’s dedication to supporting women and marginalized groups in various sectors underscores its commitment to achieving a more inclusive and prosperous society for all Gambians.
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