National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding to promote human rights and civil education in the country. 

The signing ceremony brought together top officials of both institutions at the Commission’s headquarters in Kololi. Social distancing rules were adhered to by exercising one-metre spacing among the attendees. 

Emmanuel Daniel Joof, NHRC chairperson, described the agreement as a “milestone” that will facilitate a fruitful collaboration for the two institutions to coordinate and raise awareness of fundamental human rights and civic duties. 

“The NHRC believes that by signing this important MOU, the ‘new Gambia’ that we all envisaged will be better served. This partnership is therefore coming at the right moment especially at a time when information sources are varied and most times unreliable,” he said.

Mr Joof acknowledged that it is therefore critical the public have access to information “that is factual, reliable and consistent with the laws.”

He added: “with this partnership, the two institutions will rely on the collective experience and technical expertise of their staff to implement joint awareness creation activities on human rights in an effort to create an environment where these rights are respected and upheld by all.”

Representing NCCE, Alh Sering Faye chairperson of the council also described the agreement as significant saying the “signing marks the beginning of our collaboration and engagement between the two institutions”.

Mr Faye said the National Human Rights Commission has chosen the right partner as the NCCE’s work includes enlightening the public about their fundamental rights, freedom and duties as enshrined in the constitution of the land.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba