Image: Augustina Onyinye Ugbana (CPF) and Basamba Drammeh (TASWIG)
In a significant step toward enhancing social work practices in The Gambia, The Association of Social Workers in The Gambia (TASWIG) and the Care and Prevention Foundation (CPF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening collaborative social services across the country. This strategic partnership will focus on tackling key social challenges through a shared vision, resources, and expertise, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive essential services, including mental health support and community-based care.
This partnership represents a bold commitment to lifting the most vulnerable members of society through a wide array of services, including comprehensive mental health support, family welfare assistance, and community-based care programmes. By joining forces, TASWIG and CPF aim to enhance the effectiveness of social work interventions, extending their reach into every corner of The Gambia.
Central to this initiative is the ambitious plan to establish counselling centres across the country. These centres, strategically located in key regions, will provide support for individuals and families in need. Offering mental health services, family counselling, and welfare assistance, the centres will play a vital role in uplifting communities, fostering resilience, promoting well-being, and co-building sustainable shared futures.
Basamba Drammeh, President of TASWIG, spoke passionately about the partnership: “This collaboration between TASWIG and the Care and Prevention Foundation will serve as a catalyst for transformative change. Together, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future, where no one is left behind, and every individual has access to the essential services they need to thrive. This is more than just a partnership – it is a promise to the people of The Gambia that we are here to support them in every way possible.”
Oluwatoni Adeleke, IFSW Africa Regional President, echoed these sentiments, praising the far-reaching potential of the partnership: “This alliance between TASWIG and CPF is a beautiful example of what can be achieved when two organisations with a shared mission come together. Their combined strength will not only transform lives in The Gambia but also serve as an inspiration for other nations across Africa. It is a collaboration that has the power to create lasting social change and uplift entire communities.”
With this MoU, TASWIG and CPF have committed to working hand-in-hand on a range of projects, including community outreach programmes, awareness campaigns, and training initiatives for social workers. By pooling their resources and knowledge, they aim to build a stronger network of social support across the country, ensuring that help is available to all who need it.
As The Gambia continues to face complex social challenges, this partnership represents a promising step forward. With TASWIG and CPF leading the way, the country’s most vulnerable populations stand to benefit from improved social services and greater access to support.