National Assembly Chambers
By Ramatoulie Jawo
The National Assembly Members on Wednesday approved the National Social Protection Bill 2024, a significant piece of legislation aimed at bridging gaps in the country’s social protection system.
Presented to Parliament on March 12, 2024, by Vice President Muhammed BS Jallow, the bill has now successfully completed all three legislative stages.
The bill, as outlined by the Vice President, seeks to develop a comprehensive legislative framework for social welfare and services, which are vital for effective social protection.
A key feature of the bill is the establishment of a specialized agency tasked with overseeing social assistance activities and managing the distribution of social grants. It also aims to address existing gaps in the legislative framework and align it with the principles of the National Social Protection Policy (NSPP) 2015-2025.
The bill includes provisions to clearly define social assistance criteria and qualifications, ensuring that support reaches those in genuine need. To enhance the consistency and quality of social assistance, the bill prescribes minimum norms and standards for service delivery, ensuring uniform support for all beneficiaries.
In recognition of the financial needs of social assistance programs, the bill proposes the creation of a dedicated Social Protection Fund. This fund is designed to provide sustainable funding for social assistance initiatives, ensuring their long-term viability.
“By establishing a coordinating agency, defining social assistance criteria, setting minimum norms and standards, and creating a dedicated funding mechanism, this legislation will significantly enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of social protection programs. It will contribute to reducing poverty, promoting social equity, and improving the overall well-being of the Gambian population,” the bill reads.