A legal organisation has signed a new agreement with the Gambia Prison Service aimed at helping inmates access legal representation and tackling overcrowding in the country’s correctional facilities.

The Africa Centre for Legal and Research signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Gambia Prison Service (GPS) as part of efforts to strengthen access to justice for people in custody.

Under the agreement, the centre will provide legal assistance to inmates, particularly those requiring help with bail applications, appeals and pro bono legal representation.

The partnership is intended to address some of the legal barriers that can leave inmates waiting for lengthy periods as their cases move through the justice system.

The organisations said the initiative could help speed up the trial process while reducing unnecessary delays and easing pressure on correctional facilities.

It is also expected to support inmates who may not have the financial means to secure legal representation.

The Africa Center for Legal and Research and the Gambia Prison Service said the agreement reflects their shared commitment to protecting the rights of inmates and strengthening access to justice.

The partnership comes against the wider challenge of prison congestion, where delays in the administration of cases can contribute to overcrowding in correctional facilities.

By supporting bail applications and appeals and providing pro bono legal services, the initiative aims to help ensure that people in custody receive appropriate legal assistance.

The organisations said ensuring access to justice is essential to protecting the fundamental right to a fair and speedy trial.

The agreement also seeks to contribute to broader reforms in the administration of justice in The Gambia by improving legal support for inmates and addressing cases that may be delayed within the system.

The Africa Center for Legal and Research said its collaboration with the Prison Service would provide an avenue for identifying inmates who require legal assistance and supporting them through the appropriate legal processes.

The partnership is expected to benefit inmates whose cases require legal intervention, while also contributing to efforts to reduce unnecessary pressure on the country’s correctional facilities.

The signing of the MoU marks a new collaboration between the two institutions as they seek to strengthen legal protection for inmates and promote a more effective and accessible justice system.

Both institutions have reaffirmed their commitment to working together to improve access to justice and support reforms designed to protect the rights and dignity of people in custody.

By Adama Makasuba