Banjul,13 January 2026: The Minister of Gender, Children and Social Welfare, Hon. Fatou Kinteh, on Saturday, 20th December 2025, presided over the opening of the Third and Fourth Quarter National Women’s Council meeting at Mansa Wally Lodge in Pakalinding, Lower River Region (LRR).
The meeting, which ran from 20th to 26th December 2025, brought together women councillors from across the country, conducted in local languages to ensure inclusive participation and effective engagement of all members. The sitting serves as an important national platform for deliberating on issues affecting women and advancing women’s development, particularly at the grassroots level.
In her opening remarks, Hon. Kinteh urged the women councillors to approach the meeting with seriousness and commitment, stressing the importance of constructive and meaningful discussions on issues affecting women nationwide. She described the National Women’s Council as the “National Assembly of women,” underscoring its significance as a forum for charting a clear path for women’s development, especially for grassroots women who have entrusted councillors with leadership.
Welcoming the participants, the Governor of Lower River Region, Hon. Seedy Lamin Bah, called on national women councillors to work in unity to promote the interests of the country. He noted that the council meeting is a vital forum where women discuss their challenges and map out the way forward.
Speaking on behalf of the council leadership, Mrs. Agie Saptieu Jaye, who deputised for both the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson, expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare for its steadfast commitment to addressing the council’s engagements and concerns.
The Lady Councillor and focal person for Lower River Region, Mrs. Mariama Darboe, also welcomed the delegates and expressed delight that the people of LRR are pleased to host the Third and Fourth Quarter National Women’s Council meetings.
By Sarjo M Camara
