The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), in partnership with Qatar Charity, has distributed food assistance to more than 200 vulnerable households as part of efforts to support families facing economic hardship. The initiative aims to improve food security and provide relief to disadvantaged communities through the provision of essential food items.
Speaking at the food distribution exercise, Deputy Governor of the West Coast Region, Musa Amul Nyassi, conveyed gratitude on behalf of Regional Governor Alhaji Ousman Bojang to Qatari Charity for supporting families in need and complementing government interventions during times of disaster.
Nyassi also acknowledged the role played by the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) and the Office of the Vice President in facilitating the distribution process. He noted that the exercise marked the second food basket distribution programme conducted this year for vulnerable households across the country.
He praised the charity for extending support to needy families nationwide, regardless of geographic location, and emphasized that such humanitarian assistance is made possible by the peaceful and stable environment prevailing in The Gambia.
“The Gambia is known for peace and stability, and it is our collective responsibility to preserve and nurture these values,” he said.
Nyassi further noted that while food assistance may not fully compensate for losses caused by disasters such as floods, windstorms and fires, it provides much-needed relief to affected families. He commended both the government and Qatari Charity for working together to support vulnerable communities.
The deputy governor also highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of humanitarian assistance, stating that continued donor support reflects confidence in the way resources are being distributed.
For his part, Sanna Dahaba, Executive Director of the National Disaster Management Agency, said the food baskets were intended for vulnerable families and households experiencing food shortages, including those affected by disasters.
Dahaba praised the Government of The Gambia under the leadership of President Adama Barrow for creating an enabling environment that allows development partners and humanitarian organisations to operate effectively.
He said peace and political stability have played a key role in attracting support for communities in need, noting that similar assistance may be difficult to deliver in countries facing instability.
The NDMA Executive Director also expressed appreciation to Qatari Charity for its continued support to vulnerable Gambians, describing the initiative as a valuable contribution to the welfare of disaster-affected families and food-insecure households.
The food distribution exercise forms part of ongoing efforts to provide relief assistance to vulnerable communities and strengthen support for families affected by economic hardship and disaster-related challenges across the country.
