The Women’s Association for Women and Victims’ Empowerment (WAVE-GAMBIA) recently concluded a three-day community dialogue aimed at enhancing women’s political participation and addressing hate speech in Lower Fulladu West, Central River Region (CRR).
The initiative was supported by the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) and involved grassroots women and community leaders.
The engagement drew together 300 women from communities such as Fulla Bantang, Brikama Ba, Taifa, Kerewan Samba Sira, Madina Nfally, and Sarreh Malang, preparing them for the upcoming 2026 presidential and 2027 parliamentary elections.
Participants took part in simulation exercises to identify and respond to incidents of violence against women in politics and to discuss ways to combat hate speech.
Abby Baldeh, a community nurse in Fulla Bantang, emphasized the significance of the dialogue, stating that the lack of political awareness is a major barrier to women’s participation.
“This engagement is essential; women are hindered by insufficient awareness.”
Jane Nzenwa, the Gender and Women Empowerment Coordinator of WAVE-GAMBIA urged women to actively participate in politics.
“We want women to not only vote but also to lead and feel safe,” she said, acknowledging the political intimidation and cyberbullying women face.
Community member, Sunkaru Fatty highlighted ongoing structural barriers and called for unified efforts from various stakeholders to create equitable opportunities for women’s political engagement.
“This gathering is significant. There are still lot of barriers that continue to affect women’s political participation. I am calling on the relevant authorities to support women in politics,” she said.
Hon. Gibby Mballow, the National Assembly member for Lower Fulladu West, noted that the dialogue is a vital step toward empowering women and fostering an inclusive political environment.
The event concluded with a commitment from participants to support women’s political representation, recognizing hate speech and violence as significant barriers to their engagement in politics.
