By: Sainabou Sambou
In a landmark collaboration, Japan and The Gambia convened at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center in Bijilo to advance digital innovation and public-private partnerships focused on enhancing child welfare. The workshop, organized by UNICEF Gambia, brought together government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and UN representatives to explore innovative solutions for children’s education, health, and protection.
Takeshi Akamatsu, Japan’s Ambassador to Senegal (accredited to The Gambia), delivered a virtual address on behalf of the Japanese government. He underscored the critical role of digital transformation and cross-sector collaboration in uplifting children across Africa. “Supporting children, protecting their lives, and strengthening their learning environment is the cornerstone of any nation’s development,” Ambassador Akamatsu stated, citing commitments from the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) held in Yokohama earlier this year.
The ambassador commended UNICEF Gambia’s efforts, highlighting the contributions of gender officer Nasri Yamata and her successor, Messiah, in promoting child rights.
Babucarr Boye, Minister of Public Service, Administrative Reform, Policy Coordination and Delivery, praised the initiative’s emphasis on private sector engagement to tackle challenges in rural areas. “This provides an opportunity to deliver quality education and healthcare while ensuring structured private sector involvement,” he said, noting the attendance of UN officials, diplomats, and partners.
Fatou Kinteh, Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare, stressed the need for deliberate investments in youth. “Progress and prosperity depend on inclusive strategies prioritizing young people’s needs,” she added.
Nafisa Binte Shafique, UNICEF Country Representative, emphasized the workshop’s goal of uniting stakeholders to maximize child-focused investments. She highlighted efforts to finalize key legislation, including the Children’s Act and national education policy, to foster sustainable development.
The event signals growing Japan-Africa ties through digital tools and partnerships, aiming to create equitable opportunities for Gambian children in a rapidly evolving world.
