Lamin Janneh has called on the government to place the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities at the centre of national development, urging policymakers to translate political commitments into meaningful action that improves the lives of one of the country’s most vulnerable communities.
Speaking during the official signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC) and the National People’s Party (NPP) at the State House, Janneh delivered a passionate appeal for greater inclusion, equal opportunities, and sustained government support for persons with disabilities.
Addressing party leaders, senior government officials, delegates, and supporters, including GDC leader Hon. Mama Kandeh and President Adama Barrow, Janneh highlighted the social and economic barriers that continue to affect many Gambians living with disabilities.
“People with disabilities are good, capable people, yet they face severe hardship and discrimination,” Janneh said. “This is painful and unacceptable. The government must pay attention, follow up on their issues, and support them according to their needs.”
He stressed that persons with disabilities are equal citizens who deserve respect, dignity, and the opportunity to participate fully in national life, rather than being overlooked in policy implementation and development planning.
Janneh also commended the GDC for being among the first political parties to elevate disability rights within the country’s political agenda, describing the move as an important step toward ensuring that the concerns of persons with disabilities receive greater national attention.
Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, Janneh recalled the assistance provided to vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, during the 2020 public health crisis. However, he emphasised that temporary relief measures should evolve into long-term, structured programmes that promote self-reliance, economic empowerment, and social inclusion.
With the signing of the GDC/NPP alliance agreement, Janneh expressed optimism that the political partnership would result in practical policies aimed at improving access to education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and social protection for persons with disabilities.
He urged the government and political leaders to ensure that the commitments made during the State House ceremony are backed by concrete action and adequate resources.
Concluding his address, Janneh appealed to the country’s leadership to make disability inclusion a national priority, emphasising that genuine development can only be achieved when every citizen, regardless of physical ability, is given the opportunity to contribute to the nation’s progress.
