In the heart of The Gambia, a transformative shift is unfolding. Through a pioneering Human Rights-Based Approach (HRBA) training, local ward councillors and council staff are being equipped to lead a new model of governance, one where development is not seen as a gift, but as a fundamental human right.
Organised by ActionAid International, The Gambia (AAITG) with support from the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund (UNPBF), the five-day workshop is part of the broader initiative: “Empowering Marginalised Young People for Inclusion in Civic Space and Local Infrastructures for Peace.” Its goal: to reframe local governance through the lens of equity, accountability, and citizen participation.
“This training is showing us that development is not just about infrastructure, it’s about fairness, equity, and participation,” said Hon. Landing B. Sanneh, Chairman, Mansakonko Area Council, capturing the spirit of the sessions.
Instilling a People-First Ethos
Far from being a routine capacity-building exercise, the HRBA training is a deliberate push toward a people-centred governance model. Participants are introduced to principles that promote inclusivity, gender equality, and transparent decision-making.
Hon. Sanneh emphasised the significance of the training, stating, “We must prioritise our citizens’ needs and aspirations in every decision we make.” He highlighted Mansakonko’s precedent-setting move to include women in tribunal courts—an achievement rooted in persistent advocacy by ActionAid.
A Milestone for Kerewan
In Kerewan, the training marked a turning point. “This is the first time since our election that such comprehensive training has been offered,” noted Vice Chairperson Alagie K Saho. “It’s not only timely, but also essential.”
By understanding their roles as duty bearers, councillors are encouraged to view access to roads, services, and justice not as optional projects but as mandates to uphold citizens’ rights.
“Development Is a Right”
Binta ML Ceesay, Women’s Rights Manager at AAITG and focal person for the project, firmly stated: “Development is not a favour, it is a right.” Her words served as a call to action, urging councillors to internalise their responsibility in delivering services with justice and fairness.
Lead trainer Saikou Darboe further clarified: “The HRBA framework ensures sustainable development by placing rights-holders at the centre and reinforcing the accountability of those in power.”
From Principles to Practice
The training is immersive and interactive, tackling real-world scenarios in local governance. Participants explore budgeting, participatory planning, and effective community engagement, all guided by human rights values.
“This isn’t just theory,” said Lamin M.S. Fatty, a participant. “We’re learning how to apply these principles directly in our work.”
A Grassroots Democratic Shift
What began as a localised workshop is quickly becoming part of a broader movement across The Gambia. With local councils in Kerewan, Mansakonko, Janjanbureh, and Basse adopting HRBA principles, the country is laying the groundwork for a new era of democratic governance.
At its core, the message is simple but profound: development must be claimed by the people, ensured by their representatives, and rooted in dignity and justice.
