President Adama Barrow and the delegation from the International Feyof Ted Cross and Ted Crescent Societies.
By Landing Ceesay
President Adama Barrow told a delegation from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) that Gambians can build a better future for themselves in their own country, without having to risk their lives on the dangerous journey to Europe.
The President made the remarks during a meeting with the delegation at State House in Banjul. The delegation was led by the IFRC’s Secretary General, Jagan Chapagain.
“If we are determined, we can make it in the country,” President Barrow told his audience
Gambian President Adama Barrow expressed his deep concern about the many young lives that are being lost to irregular migration in search of better opportunities. He called for partnership and confidence-building measures to combat this scourge.
“During discussions with the IFRC boss, the Gambian leader encouraged partnership, building confidence, creating jobs, and enlightening the people to address international migration. He said it was time to think outside the box in addressing the current significant issues, including migration, climate change, and security concerns,” State House said in a statement.
President Adama Barrow of Gambia has added his voice to the growing chorus of concern about climate change. He has said that climate change is real and that we need to develop resilient programs to mitigate its negative impact on our lives.
“Also, climate change is real, and we need resilient programmes to mitigate its negative impact on our lives.”
President Barrow also expressed delight in the partnership between his government and the Gambia Red Cross Society. He said that the Red Cross Society plays a critical role in the country and that it has earned a good name and respect. He reiterated his call for peace and stability in the Gambia.
The Secretary General of the IFRC in his remarks complimented the Gambia Red Cross Society for the work they are doing.
“Briefing the President on the purpose of his visit, the Nepalese-born IFRC Secretary General complimented the national Red Cross group for the transformation during his second visit to The Gambia. He observed the Society’s use of funds and the quality of its reporting processes, defining the system and policy for financial sustainability and mobilisation.
“SG Chapagain identified five critical areas of the Red Cross Society’s interventions across over one hundred projects, responding to crisis, supporting communities to build resilience, migration, climate change, gender, and inclusive programming. He said Migration is politically sensitive and divisive. Still, GRCS provides migrants with psycho-social support, considering the many young lives that disappear or die in the cause of such deadly journeys,” State House said.
The release from the State House stated that the IFRC Secretary General underscored the need to understand the root causes of migration, rather than addressing the symptoms only.
“The IFRC is working to provide access to fundamental human rights by working with partners for returnees. He also hailed the positive partnership the GRCS enjoys with the Gambia Government,” State House said.
Mr. Chapagain was accompanied to State House by Fabakry Kalleh, the President of the Gambia Red Cross Society, Alasan Senghore, the National Secretary General, Alexandre Claudon, the Regional Head in Dakar, and other members of the society