His Worship Muhammed Krubally serves as a Principal Magistrate in The Gambia, marking him as the country’s first and only visually impaired individual to hold this distinguished judicial position. This significant achievement not only notes his personal dedication and professional acumen but also sets a powerful precedent within the Gambian legal system. Krubally also chairs the Education for All Network (EFANET), an organization focused on educational advocacy, further showing his commitment to societal progress beyond the courtroom. His remarkable career trajectory consistently notes that disability does not impede individuals from contributing meaningfully to their nation or attaining significant professional achievements. Indeed, Krubally’s journey stands as a testament to resilience, determination, and the profound impact one individual can have on national development and social inclusion. His role as a Principal Magistrate shows a deep-seated commitment to public service and professional success within the legal system of The Gambia, demonstrating that diverse talents are invaluable assets to the country's governance and justice.
A Voice for the Voiceless
Muhammed Krubally’s impactful leadership of the Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD) began in December 2017 when he was appointed Interim Chairman, stepping into a key role for the rights of persons with disabilities in the nation. His dedication quickly earned him widespread support, leading to his subsequent election unopposed as the substantive Chairman of the GFD in 2019. This initial election cemented his position as a key advocate and leader within the disability community. Demonstrating continued trust and recognition of his effective leadership, Krubally secured a second four-year term as Chairman of the GFD, being re-elected in 2024. This re-election further validates his ongoing efforts and the positive impact he has had on the federation and its members.
Under Krubally's stewardship, the GFD has achieved several significant milestones, including the key reopening of its Secretariat, a key administrative achievement that revitalized the organization's operational capacity and outreach. The federation also undertook a full review and adoption of a new Constitution, a foundational step to modernize its governance and operational framework. This critical process received invaluable technical support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), ensuring that the updated constitution aligned with best practices and effectively served the needs of its members. Beyond his direct involvement with the GFD, Krubally has consistently extended his support to various initiatives aimed at uplifting the disabled community. He has actively supported programmes with the HEENO Foundation, contributing to projects that address specific needs and challenges faced by persons with disabilities. His collaborative spirit is evident in his past work with the late Dr. Karamo Sonko on various initiatives, reflecting a broad and sustained engagement with disability rights advocacy across different platforms and partnerships.
Policy and Advocacy Landscape
Muhammed Krubally’s influence extends into the realm of national policy, as evidenced by his appointment as Chairman of the National Advisory Council for Persons with Disabilities (NACPWD). This body is a statutory entity established under The Gambia's landmark Persons with Disabilities Act, 2021, signifying its key role in implementing national disability policy. Under his leadership, the NACPWD has since established its Secretariat, a vital administrative hub located along Marina Parade in Banjul, providing a dedicated space for its operations and coordination efforts. Krubally’s work with the NACPWD is instrumental in translating legislative intent into tangible actions that benefit persons with disabilities across The Gambia.
Krubally’s advocacy is particularly focused on critical areas such as disability-inclusive disaster preparedness, where he consistently emphasizes the urgent need for strong and full policy frameworks. He has consistently called for the implementation of accessible early warning systems, recognizing that timely and understandable information is critical for the safety of all citizens, including those with disabilities, in times of crisis. His vision for disaster preparedness also includes a strong push for inclusive emergency shelters, meticulously designed to accommodate the diverse needs and accessibility requirements of the disabled community during natural disasters or other emergencies. The Persons with Disabilities Act, enacted in 2021, provides the essential legislative framework for many of these proposed initiatives, aiming to protect and promote the rights of persons with disabilities in The Gambia by ensuring their safety and inclusion in all national strategies. This Act represents a significant step forward in formalizing the rights and protections for persons with disabilities, and Krubally's work is key in ensuring its effective implementation.
Broader Impact and Vision
Muhammed Krubally’s commitment to advocacy for persons with disabilities is also evident through his leadership roles in other key organizations. He serves as the Secretary General of the Gambia Organisation for the Visually Impaired (GOVI), an organization specifically dedicated to supporting and advocating for visually impaired individuals across The Gambia. This role is particularly resonant given his own lived experience, allowing him to bring a unique perspective to the challenges and needs of this community. Beyond national borders, Krubally holds the influential position of Secretary General of the West African Federation of Persons with Disabilities, extending his influence and advocacy efforts across the wider West African region. This regional role allows him to champion the rights of persons with disabilities on a broader scale, fostering collaboration and sharing best practices among West African nations.
Throughout his extensive work, Krubally has consistently championed the principle of "Nothing About Us Without Us," a powerful mantra advocating for the full and meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in all decisions and policies that directly affect their lives. This principle underpins his belief that genuine inclusion can only be achieved when those impacted are at the forefront of policy formulation and implementation. He has frequently noted systemic challenges that continue to impede the progress and inclusion of persons with disabilities in The Gambia, urging for concerted efforts to dismantle these barriers. Among these persistent obstacles, Krubally has pointed to inadequate funding for disability-related initiatives and organizations, stressing that financial resources are key for effective program delivery and support services.
He has also identified inaccessible infrastructure as a significant barrier, noting its widespread impact on mobility, independent living, and equitable access to public services and facilities. Limited educational opportunities for persons with disabilities also remain a key concern for Krubally, who argues that these restrictions severely limit personal development, professional prospects, and overall societal integration. Krubally has consistently cited high rates of unemployment among persons with disabilities, which not only impacts economic independence but also perpetuates social marginalization. He also frequently points to low public awareness regarding disability rights and issues as critical areas requiring urgent attention and reform, emphasizing the need for widespread education to foster a more inclusive and understanding society. His multifaceted advocacy shows a holistic approach to disability rights, aiming to create a society where persons with disabilities can thrive and contribute fully.