Qatar Charity launched a new livelihood initiative in The Gambia on 13 October, providing support for sewing, poultry farming, sheep and cattle rearing, vegetable gardening, and small-scale trading. The initial disbursement of resources for these projects took place across the West Coast Region and the Kanifing Municipal Council. This initiative is designed to bolster the economic stability of local households by providing the necessary tools and livestock for residents to establish independent businesses. By targeting these specific sectors, the program seeks to address the immediate needs of participants while fostering long-term financial independence.
Fatounata Jawara, CEO of Maa Foundation for Women and a Civil Society Representative on the National Women’s Council, commended Qatar Charity for its support to vulnerable communities in the country. Fatounata Jawara, CEO of Maa Foundation for Women, commended Qatar Charity for its support to vulnerable communities in The Gambia. During the launch, she stated, "As development partners, our greatest responsibility is to the people whose lives we seek to improve. Effective partnerships must be guided by fairness, transparency and respect for national priorities, ensuring that support reaches vulnerable communities and creates lasting opportunities. On behalf of the Honourable Minister, I commend Qatar Charity for its continued contribution and applaud the Ministry’s team for strengthening these partnerships."
The initiative aims to provide sustainable income-generating activities for local residents through various sectors. The livelihood initiative includes support for sewing, poultry farming, sheep and cattle rearing, vegetable gardening, and small-scale trading. These activities were selected to provide diverse options for participants, allowing them to choose a trade that aligns with their local market conditions and existing skill sets. The initial disbursement of the initiative took place in the West Coast Region and Kanifing Municipal Council. By focusing on these two specific areas, Qatar Charity intends to concentrate its resources where they can have the most immediate impact on the local population.
Regarding the role of her organization in the effort, Fatounata Jawara said, "As Maa Foundation for Women, a grassroots organisation working directly with communities, we reaffirm our commitment to collaborating with the Ministry and development partners to advance inclusive, people-centred development that leaves no one behind."
The collaboration between Qatar Charity and local entities like the Maa Foundation for Women represents a structured approach to community development. By involving grassroots organizations, the initiative ensures that the resources reach those who are most in need of assistance. The program is structured to provide ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the sewing, poultry farming, sheep and cattle rearing, vegetable gardening, and small-scale trading projects to ensure that participants are able to maintain their operations effectively. This full support system is intended to mitigate the risks associated with starting new business ventures, thereby increasing the likelihood of long-term success for the beneficiaries involved in the initiative.
