Gambia

UNHCR's operations in Gambia are implemented through the Government partner, Gambia Commission for Refugees (GCR), and the non-governmental partner, Gambia Food and Nutrition Association (GAFNA). They have facilitated local integration, livelihood activities and peaceful coexistence between the host community and forcibly displaced persons, the majority of whom come from the Casamance region in Senegal.

UNHCR and partners have continued to engage relevant governmental stakeholders in a comprehensive review of the 2008 Refugee Act. In 2024, UNHCR carried out an assessment exercise to determine the number of residents in the West Coast Region of the Gambia, Ghana Town, who face challenges of citizenship and nationality, addressing gaps in Gambia’s nationality laws. This aims to ensure that the Gambian government meets its obligation to provide the legal, regulatory and policy frameworks aimed at either reducing or eradicating statelessness.

By early July 2025, GCR was granted audience before government officials when they advised the government on the affirmative solution for inclusion for Ghana Town residents. Government officials in attendance recognized the plight of Ghana Town residents to be addressed in line with relevant frameworks to grant citizenship.