What we do

UNICEF works in the world’s toughest places to reach the most disadvantaged children and adolescents – and to protect the rights of every child, everywhere. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we do whatever it takes to help children survive, thrive and fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence. 

In The Gambia, UNICEF works with the Government to deliver services for children across the country. Guided by the principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, UNICEF works to ensure every child survives and thrives, and is protected from violence, discrimination and all forms of harmful traditional practices.

Since 1965, we have partnered with the Government of The Gambia to strengthen national laws and policies and empower local communities to deliver better services for women and children. Our interventions are based on our Country Programme, signed with the Government of The Gambia. We implement our programmes in line with the country's National Development Plan, the United Nations Development Assistance Framework, and the Sustainable Development Goals. 

To reach the most vulnerable communities and make the biggest impact, we've deployed our Ñsa Kenno (We can do it) model. This model is driven by the people we serve and centers on community engagement, which is integral to successful programming for behavior change and the creation of demand necessary to improve the health, social, and overall well-being of children in The Gambia.

The model is based on the human-rights-based approach to sustainable development and focuses on delivering community-level services through existing local governance structures. It emphasizes the inclusion and participation of children, youth, and other community members.