By: Isatou Sarr
A three-day workshop is taking place to tackle climate change, gender issues, and policies in The Gambia. Organised by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare and the Ministry of Fisheries and Water Resources, the event runs from September 13 to 15, 2025. It aims to pinpoint gaps in existing strategies for gender, agriculture, fisheries, and energy.
At the opening, Mr. Saikou JK Trawally, Deputy Permanent Secretary, highlighted the urgency of the discussions. He noted that climate change affects everyone, but its impact is often heavier on women, children, and vulnerable communities. “This workshop gives us a chance to assess our policies, such as the National Gender Policy and Fisheries Policy, to ensure they’re effective,” he said.
The aim goes beyond just criticism. “We want to develop action points that will make our national strategy stronger and more inclusive,” Mr. Trawally added. He emphasized how climate change and gender equality are interconnected, stating that improvements in one area can lead to gains in the other.
Mr. Babanding Kanye, Project Coordinator for GEF6, shared insights on building resilience in coastal fisheries. His project focuses on helping small-scale enterprises and communities adapt to climate challenges. “We will promote climate-resilient business models and empower communities to address vulnerabilities,” he explained.
Kanye stressed the importance of integrating gender equality into climate policies. He called for solid regulatory frameworks and quality standards in the fisheries sector. “We need better coordination across sectors and practical guidelines for incorporating climate resilience into business plans,” he said. He pointed out that the fisheries sector faces significant threats from climate change, including impacts on livelihoods and food security.
Recent research highlights that climate change is expected to make fishing zones less productive. A report from the Food and Agriculture Organization found that fish stocks are declining worldwide, which can worsen food security. This underscores the need for adaptive measures in fisheries and related sectors.
Additionally, there’s growing social media interest in climate and gender issues. Online discussions reveal a community eager for sustainable policies, reflecting broader trends in environmental activism. These conversations can influence policymakers to act swiftly.
The challenges in the fisheries sector include infrastructure limits and competition for resources. Addressing these requires targeted policies and business models that are responsive to both climate risks and community needs. As Mr. Kanye noted, this is a global challenge that needs local solutions.
