GAMBIA: Anti-Corruption Efforts Gather Momentum
A one-day conference on the intersectionality between corruption and human rights brought together over 50 stakeholders in The Gambia to discuss the impact of corruption on the enjoyment of human rights and strategies for effective anti-corruption efforts.
Conference Overview
The conference, held at Ocean Bay Hotel on December 12, was organised by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and brought together representatives from Civil Society Organisations, the media, Government institutions, and the National Assembly.
Keynote Speakers
Mrs. Jainaba Johm, NHRC Vice Chairperson
“We cannot run away from our commitments under international human rights law,” said Mrs. Johm. “We have ratified the UN Convention against Corruption in 2003 and the AU Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption in 2009, which obliges us to put in place systems and laws to vigorously fight against corruption.”
Attorney General and Minister of Justice Mr. Alieu Jallow
“The Anti-Corruption Act of 2012 provides a comprehensive framework to prevent, investigate, and prosecute corruption cases,” said Mr. Jallow. “The Anti-Corruption Bill 2019 before the National Assembly demonstrates our commitment to fighting against corruption.”
Honourable Kebba Lang Fofana, Member of the National Assembly Finance and Public Accounts Committee (FPAC)
“The fight against corruption requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders,” said Honourable Fofana. “It requires attitudinal change on the part of every member of society.”
Panel Discussions
- The Content of the Anti-Corruption Bill 2019: The conference featured a panel discussion on the provisions of the bill and its potential impact on anti-corruption efforts in The Gambia.
- Exploitation of Natural Resources: A panel discussion focused on the exploitation of natural resources and its link to corruption, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability in the extractive industries.
- Impact on Political Participation: The conference also explored how corruption can limit political participation and undermine democratic institutions.
- Social Acceptance of Corruption: A panel discussion examined the social acceptance of corrupt practices and the need for societal condemnation of such behaviors.
Closing Statement
In his closing statement, NHRC Chairperson Mr. Emmanuel Daniel Joof called for a serious re-assessment of The Gambia’s value system and the need for concerted national, institutional, and individual efforts against corruption.
“The urgent need for concerted national, institutional, and individual efforts against corruption cannot be overstated,” said Mr. Joof. “The failure to do so could adversely affect the enjoyment of human rights, development, security, and peace.”
Conclusion
The conference has brought attention to the importance of anti-corruption efforts in The Gambia and has highlighted the need for collective action from all stakeholders to prevent and combat corruption.