The Child Protection Alliance (CPA) has slammed the involvement of children in Monday’s protest at the Bakoteh dumpsite by the Gambia First Movement.

In a statement, the CPA called it “deeply troubling and completely unacceptable,” warning that the site is extremely hazardous, with toxic fumes, sharp waste, and heavy machinery putting children’s lives at serious risk.

“Children belong in safe spaces, not in protests or dumpsites,” the alliance said, urging parents, guardians, and community leaders to protect children from harm and exploitation.

The CPA has also called on the Department of Social Welfare and relevant authorities to investigate the incident and ensure that no child is ever again exposed to danger in the name of activism.

While the Gambia First Movement protested against poor waste management at Bakoteh, the use of children has sparked outrage across communities, highlighting the urgent need for stricter adherence to child protection laws.

By Adama Makasuba