The Gambia Committee on Traditional Practices (GAMCOTRAP) on Sunday March 8th celebrated the International Women’s day in Basse, Upper River Region.

The activities of the celebration include a march pass by school children and women groups from St JosephChurch to the Regional Education Office where celebrations proper was held. The theme for this years celebration is “Women and men united to end violence against women and girls”.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Isatou Touray, Executive Director Gamcotrap read the statement of the UN Secretary General. In his message, the UN boss said it is just one year ago when he launched a campaign calling on people and governments all over the world to end the violence against women and girls. He emphasised the need to stop violence against women and girls which, perpetuate poverty, link to spread of HIV/AIDS, and subject to rape among others.

He stressed that violence against women and girls will no longer be tolerated. He cited death, injury, employment, medical bills as some of the consequences of violence against women and girls. He called for more empowerment of women in all sectors of development.

For his part, Deputy Governor URR, Momodou S.Kah calls for love and respect for women and girls. He reaffirmed government’s commitment in empowering women. He commended Gamcotrap for creating the much needed awareness among Gambian women.

Aja Mariama Jaw, Councillor for Basse ward who chaired the occasion thanked Gamcotrap for choosing URR to celebrate the important day. She expressed her resolve in championing the cause of women and girls. She called for attitudinal change among women and the need to end the culture of silence.

The chiefs of Sandu and Basse, Jumu Bah and Alhagie Hameh Minteh Krubally respectively expressed the need to stop the violence against women and girls.

Other speakers include Mawdo Gani, Isatou camara (a girl) and Kebba Susso of Mansajang. Participants on the celebration were drawn across URR.