Disability Act Now Fully Enforced: Public Warned of Fines and Jail Terms

By Madi S. Njie — Jarra News TV Staff Reporter

Government officials and disability advocates have launched regional sensitisation sessions to push for full enforcement of The Gambia’s Persons with Disabilities Act, 2021.

Key Points:

Sensitisation began on 13–14 November at the GOVI Resource Centre in Kanifing and in Brikama; other regions follow on 17 November.

Advisory Council Chair and visually impaired magistrate, His Worship Muhammed Krubally, calls for strict compliance.

Principal Social Welfare Officer Modou Suwareh says full enforcement began after the Act’s transition period ended in 2023/24.

Penalties include D50,000 fines or six months’ imprisonment for individuals, and D100,000 for institutions.

Only 3% of persons with disabilities complete basic or secondary education; a national disability survey is scheduled for 2026.

Notable achievements include a D4 million annual disability fund, grants to OPDs, refurbishment of the Advisory Council Secretariat, and free rehabilitation services and assistive devices.

A new rehabilitation facility is set to open in Bwiam by January.

Officials reaffirm that the Act aligns with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and urge citizens to report violations.