[current-page:page-title] | Diversidad de las expresiones culturales

Submitted by on 30 Jan 2020

General Information

Technical Information

Name of Party:

Gambia

Date of Ratification:

2011

Officially Designated Point of Contact of the Convention:

QPR Stakeholder

Submitted by on 28 Apr 2020

Website:

http://www.ncac.gm

Title:

Mr.

Address:

Sheikh Omar Jallow

National Centre for Arts and Culture

National Museum Premises, Independence Drive,

PMB 151

Banjul

Gambia

Phone Number:

+220 3606551

Email:

sjallow@ncac.gm

Describe the multi-stakeholder consultation process established for the preparation of this report, including consultations with relevant ministries, public institutions, local governments and civil society organizations.:

The development of the QPR for The Gambia 2019 was supported by the UNESCO Regional Office Dakar and facilitated by UNESCO 2005 Convention Expert Ojoma Ochai.

The process featured the following Steps:

1. Information workshop (8 July 2019) to engage with a wide range of stakeholders beyond the National Team. This was opened by the Gambian Minister for Tourism and Culture, Hon Hamat N. K Bah. About 40 people from a range of public sector departments, Civil Society including Gender focused CSOs, press and the cultural sector attended the workshop.

2. National Team Workshop (9-10 July) to Train the National Team on the Convention and QPR and begin practical work on completing the form. The National Team has 28 members with 10 women (36%). The Public participants were from NCAC, Ministries of Trade and Employment, Foreign Affairs, Tourism and Culture, Justice, Basic Education, Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, National Assembly, Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency (GIEPA), There were Civil Society Organisations representing the sector (three) gender equality (two) and disability (one). There was also in the team, a representative from the Gambia Women Chamber of Commerce (GWCCI) and the National Commission for UNESCO. A clear action plan of what information was to be gathered was produced at the end of the workshop.

3. Civil Society and Press Information Session (11 July) with about 35 participants from civil society, press and the cultural and creative sector to raise awareness of the convention, circulate the CSO form and invite CSO input and highlight the media freedom aspects of the convention.

4. 11 Focal People were nominated from the group, to lead on each reporting area working with the action plan. Each Focal person was supported by an NCAC staff.

5. Independent Drafting took place from July to end September with collation by Baba Ceesay, a former NCAC DG and editing by Prof Owhotu, a board member of the NCAC. The UNESCO expert provided remote input to the document in preparation for the validation workshop.

6. The UNESCO Expert worked with some of the focal persons on the ground in Banjul on 30 September to finalise the inputs.

7. Validation workshop was held on 1 and 2 October with the National Team and CSOs reps numbering 30.

8. The UNESCO Expert worked for a further two days (3 and 4 October) with the Focal Person Hassoum Ceesay DG NCAC and Director in Charge of 2005 Convention Sheikh Jallow to undertake the final edits and prepare the report for submission.

9. As the UNESCO portal was not ready in November 2019 the submission was made through the UNESCO Secretariat in PDF format by email
10. Following its validation by the QPR Expert Team, Gambia, this 22nd April 2020, the Report is hereby submitted online.

Executive summary:

Gambia ratified the 2005 convention in 2011. The first QPR was due in 2015 but was not submitted due to unfavourable political climate. The new administration of The Gambia has prioritised arts and creative industries and empowered relevant agencies like NCAC to deliver their mandate including on the 2005 convention.

This report focuses mainly on achievements in the last four years. The main implementing government agency for the 2005 Convention is the National Centre for Arts and Culture. The main objectives of the NCAC in the last four years are as follows:

Strengthening governance of culture through some of the following:

• Drafting an updated cultural policy (based on 2005 convention principles) through a participatory approach that has included civil society and private sector through Chambers of Commerce for example GCCI, GWCC and YCC.
• Developing mechanisms to support governance of civil society through associations including providing financial support and guidelines for ensuring constitutional mandates
• Strengthening and more adequate resourcing of Copyright Office of the Gambia to administer copyright matters and related issues.

Capacity Building

• Developing multiple capacity building partnerships including with UNESCO, WIPO, ECOWAS, AU, ARIPO, and others to build capacity of artists, cultural professionals and CSOs. These programmes have focused on creative / cultural entrepreneurship, copyright and Intellectual Property and artistic skills like creative writing, filmmaking, photography etc.
• Supporting the sector associations to undertake and deliver capacity building programmes for their members

Networking and Artist Mobility

• Creating platforms for exchange and showcasing among the local arts and culture sector in national, regional, and international festivals and exhibitions.
• Providing funding opportunities for international networking for artists through support for mobility including the participation of writers’ association in African writers’ conferences in Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal etc., Support for filmmakers to attend international festivals including in Ivory Coast, USA, UK, Burkina Faso and Nigeria.

The elaboration of the QPR has created an opportunity for the NCAC to engage with other public institutions like the Public Utilities and Regulatory Authority (PURA), Gambia Bureau of Statistics (GBOS), Ministries of Trade, Youth and Sports, Justice, Lands and Regional Integration, Finance and Economic Affairs, Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad. The relationships built in this process will be taken forward in the next four years to focus on the following priorities:

• Improving data management and collection of cultural statistics through partnership with GBOS, PURA
• Improving existing infrastructure for cultural activities, constructing a multi-purpose cultural centre, and developing public spaces for capacity building, showcasing and networking
• Strengthening the operationalisation of the copyright regime so that the collective management organisation can issue licence for end users
• Developing sustainable mechanisms for funding of cultural and creative industries including increased budgetary allocation and exploring a Private Copy Levy (see details at https://www.wipo.int/edocs/pubdocs/en/wipo_pub_1037_2016.pdf )
• Advocating for significant investment in technology from the government to boost the strength of the industry value chains. The NCAC will continue working closely with CSOs in the next four years to raise the profile of the cultural and creative industries, building CSO knowledge and engagement with the 2005 Convention and strengthening their contribution to the implementation of the Convention. Other measures around the other goals including mobility, human rights and freedom will also be developed in collaboration with partners and CSOs.

Contact details of the stakeholders involved in the preparation of the quadrennial periodic report (QPR). Please also include the contact details of the civil society organizations (CSOs) if they have contributed to the QPR drafting, including through the CSO form.:

Organization type	Organization	Email	Website
Public Sector	National Centre for Arts and Culture	info@ncac.gm	http://www.ncac.gm
Public Sector	Ministry of Tourism and Culture	yaawanyassi@yahoo.com	http://www.motc.gov.gm
Public Sector	Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Gambians Abroad	jallowsalimatou@yahoo.com,	http://www.mofa.gov.gm
Public Sector	Ministry of Trade. Industry, Regional Integration and Employment	bakemojanka2018@gmail.com	http://www.motie.gov.gm
Public Sector	Ministry of Justice	yusuf@gmail.com	http://www.moj.gm
Public Sector	Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education	bjammeh47@gmail.com	http://www.edugambia.gm
Public Sector	Public Utility Regulatory Authority	info@pura.gm	http://www.pura.gm
Public Sector	National Commission for UNESCO (NATCOM)	jaja9700@yahoo.com	http://www.unesco.gm
Public Sector	Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency (GIEPA)	mdrammeh@giepa.gm	http://www.giepa.gm
Public Sector	National Assembly	magassyaftgm@gmail.com	http://www.nationalassemblyofthegambia.gm
Private Sector	Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry	ceo@gcci.gm	http://www.gcci.gm
Public Sector	Gambia Women Chamber of Commerce (GWCC)	prombeatrice@gmail.com	http://www.gwcc.gm
Civil Society Organization (CSO)	Writers' Association of the Gambia	wagexec@gamwriters.com	http://www.gamwriters.com
Private Sector	Women’s Rights Advocate	jfjabang@gmail.com
Private Sector	Physically Challenged	edijamanka@gmail.com
Civil Society Organization (CSO)	Gambia Press Union	pressuniongambia@gmail.com	http://www.gambiapressunion.com
Civil Society Organization (CSO)	Culture Journalist Network	yunus2kay@yahoo.com
Civil Society Organization (CSO)	Broadcasters Association of The Gambia	ndeybb@gmail.com	http://www.broadcastersgambia.com
Civil Society Organization (CSO)	Girls Agenda	girlsagenda@gmail.com
Civil Society Organization (CSO)	Bridging Gap Advisory	rbgaye1@gmail.com

Goal 1 - Support Sustainable Systems of Governance for Culture

Cultural and Creative Sectors

A Ministry (or agency with ministerial status) is responsible for cultural and creative sectors:

YES

Regional, provincial or local governments or administrations have decentralised responsibilities for policies and measures promoting the cultural and creative sectors::

YES

Regulatory frameworks and sector specific laws, policies and/or strategies supporting the cultural and creative industries have been revised or adopted during the last 4 years:

YES

If YES, has at least one of them been designed through interministerial cooperation (involving different government departments responsible for policy areas, such as communication, education, ICT, trade, foreign affairs, labor, finance):

YES

Specific education and training programmes in the arts and the cultural and creative sectors are established, including:

Digital literacy programmes for creation and experimentation

Technical and vocational education and training programmes in

Cinema/Audiovisual arts

Design

Music

Performing arts

Publishing

Visual arts

Specific measures and programmes have been implemented over the last 4 years to:

Support job creation in the cultural and creative sectors

Encourage the formalization and growth of micro/small and medium-sized cultural enterprises

Statistical offices or research bodies have produced data during the last 4 years:

Total public budget for culture (in USD):

388,000.00USD

2019

Relevant Policies and Measures:

The Cultural Policy of the Gambia,1988 (currently in use)

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

The National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC)

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

http://www.ncac.gm

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

• The policy was adopted in 1988 and is still in use (including in the last four years, covering the reporting period). • The Ministry at the time was of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture. • The policy covered: Sensitization and Mobilization, National Languages, The Creative Arts, Sites, Monuments and Relics, Research and Documentation, Indigenous Technology, Sports and Recreation, Institutional Framework and Funding, Establishment of National Arts Council (Now National Centre for Arts and Culture, based on NCAC Act 2003), Operational Agencies (National Museum, National Troupe, Oral History Archives Division, Creative and Performing Arts Division) and Funding and International Co-operation.

Does it specifically target young people?:

YES

Does the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) support the implementation of the policy/measure?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the policy/measure?:

1. Support to local festivals through training, funding and logistical support. 2. Participation at international cultural and arts festivals and fairs.

Financial resources allocated to the policy/measure in USD:

About USD388, 000 annual budget for NCAC but not possible to disaggregate by policy

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

YES

If yes, what are the main conclusions/recommendations?:

* Need to create a stand-alone Ministry of Culture
* Need to mainstream Culture in national development
* Conduct a study on the contributions of culture to GDP
* Need for both Central government and local governments to provide good funding for cultural projects and programmes
* Lay a foundation for greater private sector participation in cultural preservation and development * Improve legislation on cultural policy management and implementation
* There is need to strengthen the Copyright Bureau and for it to actualize the payment of royalties to rights holders
* Evolve a strategic plan in the context of globalisation and the digital environment
* Government should construct a National Theatre or Multi-purpose cultural centre
* A National Art Gallery is also overdue
* A National School of Fine and Performing Arts is a dire necessity
* Lay a solid foundation for greater private sector participation in cultural development

Partner(s) engaged in the implementation of the measure:

Name of partner:

UNESCO / National Commission for UNESCO

Name of partner:

Ministry of Tourism and Culture and Artistic Associations

Name of partner:

Local Government Authorities

NCAC Act of 2003, Revised in 2007 and still in use (in the last four years)

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

The National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC)

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

http://www.ncac.gm

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

As it relates to 2005 Convention, • It covers all areas of arts and culture including those within the purview of the 2005 Convention. • It established an Endowment Fund for Culture • Introduced a registration and licensing regime for artists and cultural activities • It introduced a local content law for airing of Gambian Music

Does it specifically target young people?:

Does the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) support the implementation of the policy/measure?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the policy/measure?:

1. Passing of a Copyright Regulation 2018 and the establishment of the Collecting Society of the Gambia (CSG). 2. Establishment of the Artistic Associations- Music, Film, Theatre, Fashion, Visual Arts, Writers, Book Publishers, Models and Photographers. 3. Creative business enterprise training, mentoring and funding support programme established to focus on youth development 4. Introduction of 70 percent local content in radio and TV stations throughout the country

Financial resources allocated to the policy/measure in USD:

About USD 388, 000 annual budget for NCAC but not possible to disaggregate by policy

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

YES

If yes, what are the main conclusions/recommendations?:

* Remit was widened to include administration of copyright
* The organogram was restructured from a Division to a Directorate system
* A special Directorate was created to manage the 2005 Convention domain

Partner(s) engaged in the implementation of the measure:

Name of partner:

UNESCO / National Commission for UNESCO

Name of partner:

Ministry of Tourism and Culture

Type of entity:

Public Sector

Name of partner:

SIDA

Name of partner:

UNESCO

Name of partner:

Gerdel Henkel Foundation

Name of partner:

Germany

Name of partner:

Sites of Conscience

Name of partner:

USA

The Arts and Culture Policy of The Gambia - 2018 to 2028 (Draft)

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

The National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC)

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

http://www.ncac.gm

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

• It was developed through intensive and inclusive stakeholder participation, updating the first National Cultural Policy developed in 1988, and was supported by a UNESCO funded international Consultant. • It was spearheaded by the National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC), under the aegis of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, as the Government Coordinating Agency for the Management, Promotion and Development of the Arts and Culture Sector. • It requires the development of a Strategic Plan and Business Plan to start the process of implementation. • The mission of the Policy is to see Arts and Cultural Heritage repositioned as a veritable tool for promoting the socioeconomic devevelopment of The Gambia, and contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). • Several principles of the 2005 Convention like respect for fundamental freedoms, diversity of cultural expression were embedded.

Does it specifically target young people?:

YES

Does the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) support the implementation of the policy/measure?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the policy/measure?:

It has not yet been passed but is the at the final stage of approval which is the Cabinet approval.

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

Partner(s) engaged in the implementation of the measure:

Name of partner:

UNESCO

Name of partner:

Ministry of Tourism and Culture

Name of partner:

Ministry of Justice

Name of partner:

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education

Name of partner:

Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology

Name of partner:

Ministry of Trade

Name of partner:

Ministry of Information and Communication Infrastructure

Name of partner:

Ministry of Women, Social and Children’s Affairs

Name of partner:

Ministry of Youth and Sports

Name of partner:

Artistic associations

Name of partner:

Press union

Name of partner:

Cultural entrepreneurs

Development of an Intellectual Property Framework (Copyright Act 2004, Copyright Regulations 2018 and National IP Strategy 2019)

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

The National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC) and Ministry of Justice

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

http://www.ncac.gm

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

• The copyright Framework is governed by three policies as follows: The Copyright Act 2004, The Copyright Regulation 2018 and the National IP Strategy (NIPS) 2019. • The documents govern licensing, copyright protection and enforcement, royalties’ collection and distribution. • The NIPS provides for a one stop shop (through the merging of the copyright office and the trademarks and patents office) – although yet to be implemented

Does it specifically target young people?:

YES

Does the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) support the implementation of the policy/measure?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the policy/measure?:

• Gambia now competing in international technology / innovation competitions • Now registering copyrights works in line with the regulation • Three staff employed for copyright office

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

Partner(s) engaged in the implementation of the measure:

Name of partner:

Ministry of Tourism and Culture

Name of partner:

Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology

Name of partner:

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education

Name of partner:

Ministry of Youth and Sports

Name of partner:

Ministry of Women’s Affairs

Name of partner:

National Council for Youth

Name of partner:

WIPO

Name of partner:

ARIPO

Name of partner:

Public Utilities Regulation Authority (PURA)

Name of partner:

Telecommunications Companies

Name of partner:

Artistic Associations

Name of partner:

Private Entrepreneurs

Media Diversity

Policies and measures promote content diversity in programming by supporting:

Regional and/or local broadcasters

Linguistic diversity in media programming

Community programming for marginalised groups (e.g. indigenous peoples, migrants and refugees, etc.)

Socio-cultural programming (e.g. children, youth, people with disabilities, etc.)

Domestic content regulations for audio-visual media exist (e.g. quotas for production or distribution requirements for national films, TV series or music on radio):

YES

Regulatory authority(ies) monitoring media exist:

YES

If YES, please provide the name and year of establishment of the regulatory authority(ies):

Public Utilities and Regulatory Authority (PURA), 2001

NCAC, 2003

GPU (the Gambia Press Union), 1979

Media Council of the Gambia

If YES, these regulatory authority(ies) monitor:

Public media

Community media

Private sector media

If YES, these regulatory authority(ies) are responsible for:

Issuing licenses to broadcasters, content providers, platforms

Monitoring cultural (including linguistic) obligations

Relevant Policies and Measures:

The Gambia Public Utilities Regulatory Authority Act, 2001 (PURA)

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

Public Utilities Regulatory Authority

Cultural domains covered by the policy/measure:

Cine / Artes audiovisuales

Medios de comunicación

Música

Industria editorial

Artes visuales

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

http://www.pura.gm

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

o Provides guidelines on rates and fees for the provision of regulated public services; o Examines rates and fees chargeable for the provision of regulated public services; o Protects the interest of consumers and of public utilities; o Monitors and enforce standards of performance by public utilities; o Initiates and conduct investigations into standards of services by public utilities; o Promotes fair competition among public utilities; o Conducts studies relating to economies and efficiency in the provision of regulated public services to consumers; o Collects and compile data on regulated public services and their provision o Provides advice in respect of regulated public services and their provision; o Maintains a register (which may be in electronic form) of public utilities and the services they provide;

Does it specifically target young people?:

Does the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) support the implementation of the policy/measure?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the policy/measure?:

• Guidance and framework for the media and other sectors (IT / digital) • Media Regulation • The liberalization of the telecommunications and broadcast sector is underway with the granting of new private radio and TV licences. Digital migration is almost complete, opening up new spaces on the frequency spectrum for better broadband services and scope for increasing the number of TV channels available.

Financial resources allocated to the policy/measure in USD:

Funded by license fees from media houses and GSM companies. Value Not known.

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

Partner(s) engaged in the implementation of the measure:

Name of partner:

Gambia Press Union

Name of partner:

ECOWAS

Name of partner:

Ministry of Information and Communication

Name of partner:

Artistic organisations

Information and Communication Act 2009

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

Ministry of Information and Communication

Cultural domains covered by the policy/measure:

Cine / Artes audiovisuales

Medios de comunicación

Música

Industria editorial

Artes visuales

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

http://www.moici.gm

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

• Addressing the convergence of the telecommunications, broadcasting and other new information technology sectors, including the Internet. • Implement information and communications policies and plans in relation to the development of information and communications and in the interest of the creation and development of the information society, • Regulatory provisions for broadcasting content • encouraging the setting up of advanced education and training programmes in information and communications • Promoting public awareness of the importance of the role of information and communications to the overall economic and social development and advancement of The Gambia, and • Promoting the advancement of research and development in the areas of information, communications and technology;

Does it specifically target young people?:

Does the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) support the implementation of the policy/measure?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the policy/measure?:

Has provided guidance and framework for media diversity

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

YES

If yes, what are the main conclusions/recommendations?:

To Review and to amend the Information and Communication Act 2009, FOI bill in progress

Partner(s) engaged in the implementation of the measure:

Name of partner:

PURA

Name of partner:

Media stakeholders

Name of partner:

The Broadcasters Association of The Gambia (BAG)

Name of partner:

The Newspaper Publishers Association of The Gambia (NEPA)

Name of partner:

Community Radio Broadcasters Association

Entorno digital

Policies, measures or mechanisms are in place to support the digital transformation of cultural and creative industries and institutions (e.g. funding for digitization of analogue industries):

YES

Policies or measures have been introduced to ensure vibrant domestic digital cultural and creative industries markets with a diversity of e-players of all sizes (e.g. fair remuneration rules; control market concentration; prevention of monopolies of digital content providers/distributors or their algorithms that potentially restrict the diversity of cultural expressions, etc.)::

Policies and measures have been implemented to enhance access to and discoverability of domestically produced cultural content in the digital environment (e.g. action plans or policies for digital content pluralism, public support to cultural or artistic portals in specific languages, national or regional online distribution platforms for domestic content, etc.):

Measures and initiatives have been implemented to promote digital creativity and competencies of artists and other cultural professionals working with new technologies (e.g. spaces for experimentation, incubators, etc.):

YES

Statistics or studies with recent data on access to digital media, including on the type of cultural content available through digital media, are available:

Relevant Policies and Measures:

Digital Switch Over Policy 2018 (www.pura.gm/wp-content )

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

Ministry of Information and Communication Infrastructure

The Gambia ICT Agency

Cultural domains covered by the policy/measure:

Medios de comunicación

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

http://www.moici.gm

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

• To transform the country into a knowledge-based and digital economy • Encourage local content application development • Encourage convergence of IT, media, telecommunication and consumer electronics

Does it specifically target young people?:

YES

Does the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) support the implementation of the policy/measure?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the policy/measure?:

The establishment of the Gambia ICT Agency to coordinate and spearhead the implementation of the information technology programmes and projects in the public service in order to improve service delivery and competitiveness through the use of ICT.

Financial resources allocated to the policy/measure in USD:

1 million US Dollars (covering all sectors, not only cultural and creative)

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

Partner(s) engaged in the implementation of the measure:

Name of partner:

The Gambia ICT Agency

Type of entity:

Public Sector

Name of partner:

Ministry of Information and Communication Infrastructure

Name of partner:

UNESCO Participation Programme / Gambia National Commission for UNESCO

Name of partner:

All 8 artist associations / CSOs recognized in the Copyrights Act

Partnering with Civil Society

Professional organizations and/or trade unions representing artists and/or cultural professionals in the following sectors exist in your country (i.e. federation of musicians, publishers unions, etc.):

Cinema/Audiovisual arts

Design

Media Arts

Music

Publishing

Visual Arts

Performing Arts

Public funding schemes supporting CSOs involvement in promoting the diversity of cultural expressions exist:

YES

Training and mentoring opportunities were organized or supported by public authorities during the last 4 years to build skills on communication, advocacy and/or fundraising of civil society organizations involved in the promotion of the diversity of cultural expressions:

Dialogue mechanisms between public authorities and CSOs for cultural policy making and/or monitoring have been implemented during the last 4 years (meetings, working groups, etc.):

YES

If YES, please provide up to 2 examples:

In 2016, a congress of the Collecting Society of the Gambia (CSG) was held and it brought together Executive members of the Gambia Music Union, the Writers’ Association of the Gambia, Film Producers Association of the Gambia, the Gambia Union of Theatre, Book Publishers Association of the Gambia, Music Producers and Promoters Association of the Gambia and the Gambia Professional Photographers Association and the Gambia Fashion Designers Association. The forum provided the space for dialogue between these CSOs and the NCAC on various issues including copyright enforcement, copyright royalties, diversity of cultural expressions, artist welfare schemes, the creation of a new Cultural Policy for the Gambia, local content in the media, etc.

In 2019, the National Centre for Arts and Culture supported the Two / Three / Five -yearly congresses of the artists’ associations (CSOs) they were all able to renew the mandate of their executives, revised their constitutions, draft Regulations governing the running of their associations, and prepared a budgeted work plan of activities for the next 12 months.

Policies and measures promoting the diversity of cultural expressions have been elaborated in consultation with CSOs during the last 4 years:

YES

Relevant Policies and Measures:

Goal 2 - Achieve a Balanced Flow of Cultural Goods and Services and Increase the Mobility of Artists and Cultural Professionals

Mobility of Artists and Cultural Professionals

Please indicate if the following policies and measures exist in your country:

Policies and measures supporting the outward mobility of artists and cultural professionals (e.g. export offices, support for participation in international cultural markets for cultural professionals, etc.)

Work permit regulations supporting the inward mobility of foreign artists and cultural professionals in your country (e.g. double taxation avoidance agreements, special work permits and health insurance, subsidies to cover living expenses, etc.)

Please indicate if the following operational programmes have been developed or supported/funded by public authorities during the last 4 years:

Information resources or training services providing practical guidance to facilitate the mobility of cultural professionals (e.g. Internet platforms)

Major cultural events (e.g. cultural seasons, festivals, cultural industries markets, etc.) having a mandate to promote the diversity of cultural expressions and hosting a large number of foreign artists, notably from developing countries

Please indicate if the following mobility funds (e.g. scholarships, travel grants, etc.) have been managed or supported by public authorities during the last 4 years:

Public funds supporting the outward mobility of national or resident artists and other cultural professionals

Relevant Policies and Measures:

NCAC activities to support outward mobility

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

NCAC

Cultural domains covered by the policy/measure:

Música

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

1. In 2018, the Gambia Government appointed Jaliba Kuyateh, ST and Sonna Jobarteh as Cultural Ambassadors and Issued them Diplomatic Passport to ease their foreign travels to promote Gambian music abroad. 2. Musicians are Regularly selected to travel with public institutions such as the Gambia Tourism Board to promote Gambian Cultural expression 3. Gambian musicians with a bonafide invitation and contract to play abroad can apply for a Visa with the assistance of the National Centre for Arts and Culture and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad.

Does it specifically target young people?:

Does the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) support the implementation of the policy/measure?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the policy/measure?:

• Since January 2019, 32 artists have been supported by NCAC to acquire visas to perform internationally • Three Gambian musicians have been appointed Cultural Ambassadors and have diplomatic passports

Financial resources allocated to the policy/measure in USD:

USD 10,000 artistes travel support expenses in 2019

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

Partner(s) engaged in the implementation of the measure:

Name of partner:

Embassies of the USA, UK and European Union based in the Gambia

Name of partner:

Gambia Music Union

Name of partner:

National Centre for Arts and Culture

Name of partner:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad

Name of partner:

Ministry of Tourism and Culture

Flow of Cultural Goods and Services

Export strategies or measures to support the distribution of cultural goods and services outside your country exist for the following cultural domains:

Cinema/Audiovisual arts

Design

Media Arts

Music

Publishing

Visual Arts

Performing Arts

Cultural management

Your country has granted or benefited from preferential treatment* to support a balanced exchange of cultural goods and services in the last 4 years:

YES, I have granted preferential treatment

YES, I have benefited from preferential treatment

If YES, please provide up to 2 examples:

Africa Growth Opportunity Act AGOA was a preferential trade agreement extended to the Gambia by the United States Government in 2017. It allowed the exportation of textile and fashion designs and visual art materials to the United States with no duties and a non-reciprocal basis. It is meant to broaden trade opportunities in the creative arts and to ensure more balanced flow of cultural goods and services between the two countries.

The Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) in which tariffs have been eliminated in trade in cultural goods and services between the Gambia and other African countries. Through it, the Gambia offers mutual preferential treatment to all the other signatories to the treaty. People’s Republic of China and the Gambia Cultural Cooperation Agreement signed in 2018 to facilitate flow of cultural goods including exchange of artistes between the two countries.

Your country has provided or benefited in the last 4 years from Aid for Trade support, a form of Official Development Assistance (ODA), that helped to build capacities to formulate trade policies, participate in negotiating and implementing agreements that provide a special status to cultural goods and services:

YES, I have benefited from Aid for Trade support

If YES, please provide up to 2 examples:

The International Trade Centre on behalf of the European Union (EU) has launched the Gambia Youth Empowerment Project (YEP), a four-year initiative, funded by the EU, to build skills, enable value addition, and foster market connections in job rich sectors such as design, media arts, and performing arts.

In 2018, the World Trade Organization (WTO) supported The Gambia to review its Trade Policy. Of particular note in this reform process was tariff refunds, through the ECOWAS ratifying the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and Gender Mainstreaming.

Relevant Policies and Measures:

Policies supporting export of Gambian Goods and Services including in cultural and creative sectors

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency (GIEPA) under the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Employment

Cultural domains covered by the policy/measure:

Cine / Artes audiovisuales

Diseño

Música

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

http://www.giepa.gm

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

The relevant policies are: a. Gambia National Export Strategy 2013-2017 b. GIEPA Act 2015 They aim to: • Leverage market access for cultural goods and services and develop human capacity in trade especially export of cultural goods, • Improve quality and standard infrastructure, • Promote the development of packaging and labelling to meet international market requirements.

Does it specifically target young people?:

YES

Does the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) support the implementation of the policy/measure?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the policy/measure?:

The Gambia National Trade Fair was established as an annual event to help boost export of cultural goods and services among others.

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

YES

If yes, what are the main conclusions/recommendations?:

a. Donor funding is essential for the successful implementation of the National Export Strategy and the achievement of its goals and objectives.
b. Such funding is imperative because it is a bridge finance that is intended to address the short-fall between the cost of the National Export Strategy and Government funding.
a. The Strategy should be revised and updated to take into consideration trade in the creative and cultural sectors, especially in music and other performing arts where there is a lot of exportable youth talent.

Partner(s) engaged in the implementation of the measure:

Name of partner:

GIEPA

Name of partner:

Ministry of Trade

Name of partner:

Gambia Standards Bureau

Name of partner:

Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Name of partner:

European Union

Name of partner:

ECOWAS

Name of partner:

AGOA

Name of partner:

Various embassies

Name of partner:

University of the Gambia

Name of partner:

Gambia Tourism Board

Name of partner:

National Centre for Arts and Culture

Name of partner:

Women’s Bureau

Name of partner:

Gambia Manufacturers Association

Name of partner:

Gambia Music Union

Tratados y acuerdos

Multilateral or bilateral trade and/or investment agreements providing a special status to cultural goods and/or services have been signed during the last 4 years or are under negociation:

YES

Multilateral or bilateral agreements including specific provisions providing a special status to cultural goods and services and digital products in the field of e-commerce have been signed during the last 4 years or are under negotiation:

YES

Multilateral or bilateral agreements, declarations and/or strategies on relevant policy issues for the diversity of cultural expressions (e.g. education, digital, intellectual property, sustainable development, gender equality, etc.) signed or amended to take into account the objectives or principles of the Convention during the last 4 years:

YES

Relevant Policies and Measures:

Ratification of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) by The Gambia

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

Ministry of Trade Industry Employment(MoTIE)

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

http://www.motie.gov.gm

https://au.int

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

• The free-trade area is the largest in the world in terms of participating countries since the formation of the World Trade Organization. • The agreement initially requires members to remove tariffs from 90% of goods, allowing free access to commodities, goods, and services across the continent. • It seeks to make Africa a one market where there is a free movement of goods and services from one country to another. • The AfCFTA will boost inter African trade within the 55 African countries on the continent. It covers trade in cultural and creative sector derived goods such as craft, music, books.

Does it specifically target young people?:

Does the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) support the implementation of the policy/measure?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the policy/measure?:

The Gambia joined the Agreement in June 2019. So far, a National Committee has been established and a Road Map for the country’s implementation of the Agreement has also been drawn. Sensitisation will begin in November.

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

Partner(s) engaged in the implementation of the measure:

Name of partner:

African Union Commission

Name of partner:

Economic Commission for Africa

Name of partner:

Gambia Revenue Authority

Name of partner:

Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Name of partner:

Ministry of Trade and Industry

Name of partner:

The Gambia Tourism Board

Name of partner:

Ministries of Justice and Finance

Name of partner:

Gambia Revenue Authority

Name of partner:

Gambia Competition and Consumer Protection Commission

Name of partner:

Gambia Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Name of partner:

Gambia Youth Chamber of Commerce

Name of partner:

Gambia Goods Market

Name of partner:

Gambia Hoteliers Association

Name of partner:

Gambia Fashion Designer Associations

Name of partner:

Gambia Consumers Protection Association

Ratification of the Protocol relating to the Madrid agreement concerning international registration of marks

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

Ministry of Justice

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

http://www.facebook.com/gambia/moj

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

The Madrid System for the International Registration of Marks is governed by the Madrid Agreement, concluded in 1891, and the Protocol relating to that Agreement, concluded in 1989. The system makes it possible to protect a mark in a large number of countries by obtaining an international registration that has effect in each of the designated Contracting Parties. Gambia Ratified in December 2015.

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

Goal 3 - Integrate Culture in Sustainable Development Frameworks

National Sustainable Development Policies & Plans

National sustainable development plans and strategies recognize the strategic role of:

Culture (in general)

Creativity and innovation

Cultural and creative industries

Please rate from 1 to 4 the type of outcomes expected by the inclusion of culture in national sustainable development plans and strategies 1 most often expected outcome 4 least expected outcome):

Economic (e.g. employment, trade, intellectual property, cultural and creative industries, rural and territorial development):

Environmental (e.g. natural resources, reducing environmental impact of cultural industries and practices):

Cultural (e.g. cultural infrastructure, participation and access to culture, innovation, artists support):

Public cultural bodies and agencies responsible for culture or creative industries are involved in the design and implementation of sustainable development policies and plans (i.e. participate in coordination mechanisms such as joint planning committees):

YES

Cultural industry-led regeneration initiatives and projects at the regional, urban and/or rural levels have been implemented in the last 4 years:

YES

Policies and measures facilitate participation in cultural life and access to diverse cultural facilities and expressions, notably addressing the needs of disadvantaged or vulnerable groups (e.g. via reduced entrance fees; audience development, arts education and audiences awareness-raising):

YES

Relevant Policies and Measures:

National Development Plan 2018 - 2021

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

Inter-Ministerial with Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs as the main coordinating body NCAC – the implementing body

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

https://www.mofea.gm/ndp

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

Features: • Development of Regional Cultural Festivals that include contemporary expression • Training, mentoring and support for business planning and seed funding through creative business entrepreneurship programme • Operationalisation of the Collecting Society of the Gambia • Promotion of Gambian creative arts through the construction of a Multipurpose cultural center Main features: • A 4 Year plan 2018-2021 aimed at delivering good governance, accountability, social cohesion and national reconciliation and a revitalized and transformed economy for the wellbeing of all Gambians • 8 priority areas, Culture is Priority no. 6 • Recognizes the value of cultural development as an important factor in tourism development • Recognizes importance of a Multipurpose Cultural Centre and the Collecting Society of the Gambia

Does it specifically target young people?:

YES

Does the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) support the implementation of the policy/measure?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the policy/measure?:

• Promotion and support of local, regional and National Cultural Festivals which also showcase contemporary creative expressions • Capacity building of youths in the creative arts • Increased Human Resource Capacity at NCAC across departments

Financial resources allocated to the policy/measure in USD:

USD 250, 000 for priority 6 in 2019 budget

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

YES

If yes, what are the main conclusions/recommendations?:

* Need for more commitment from Government towards the development of culture and arts.
* Consistency in budget allocation to enable timely implementation.

Partner(s) engaged in the implementation of the measure:

Name of partner:

Ministries of Tourism and Culture and Finance

Name of partner:

UNESCO

Name of partner:

Youth Empowerment Project

Name of partner:

International Organization for Migration

Name of partner:

Gambia Hotel Association

The Gambia Cultural Products Branding – Textile and Leather Works

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

NCAC

Basse Area Council

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

http://gambiandiaspora.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Gambia-National-Development-Plan-NDP2018-21.pdf

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

• The project aims to regenerate Basse Area Council through creating a contemporary, unique and artistic fashion brand inspired by Gambian heritage in textile and leather work • The project aims to empower young people for job creation and employability, discourage rural – urban drift, illegal migration through skills acquisition and market development

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

International Cooperation for Sustainable Development

Your country has contributed to or benefited from the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) during the last 4 years:

Development cooperation strategies, including South-South cooperation strategies, recognize the strategic role of creativity and diverse cultural expressions:

YES

If YES, please provide the name(s) of the strategy and year(s) of adoption:

EPA / EU Agreement on Trade of Goods, 2018

Your country manages multi- and/or bilateral technical assistance and capacity building cooperation programmes supporting:

Cultural policy development and implementation in developing countries

Medium, small or micro-enterprise development of creative industries and markets in developing countries

Artists and cultural professionals in developing countries

Relevant Policies and Measures:

Gambia Cultural Cooperation Agreements with Mali, 2016; Gambia Cultural Cooperation Agreement with China, 2018; Gambia Cultural Cooperation Agreement with Senegal, 2017 South Africa, Cuba and Ghana

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Ministry of Tourism and Culture

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

http://thepoint.gm/africa/gambia/article/gambia-signs-3-cooperation-agreements-with-china

http://apanews.net/index.php/en/news/gambia-senegal-signed-six-agreements

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

• Enhancing cultural cooperation and mobility of cultural and artistic goods and services between The Gambia and the countries; • Facilitating the building of capacity in artistic and cultural skills for Gambians; • Promoting the cultural exchange through visiting of musical and artistic groups, writers and other creators; • Engendering the full participation of youth and women in artistic and cultural matters; • Encouraging and facilitate the exchange of students, teachers, researchers

Does it specifically target young people?:

YES

Does the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) support the implementation of the policy/measure?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the policy/measure?:

• Gambian cultural groups have toured China in the spring of 2019; • Three Gambian dancers have trained for three weeks in China in summer of 2019; • Training of Gambian artists in management and marketing by Senegal experts in first quarter of 2019.

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

If yes, what are the main conclusions/recommendations?:

A. Capacity building can play an important role in cultural and artistic development. For China, Gambians should be trained in arts management and animation, puppetry and in cinema.
B. The issue of training artists and their managers in Creative Business and Entrepreneurship was also seen as imperative and very useful.
C. A major recommendation was for Senegal to mentor the Board and staff of the Gambia Collecting Society, the copyright CMO, to enable them build capacity and skills in operationalizing the royalties' collection mechanism in The Gambia.

Partner(s) engaged in the implementation of the measure:

Name of partner:

Embassy of the Peoples’ Republic of China

Name of partner:

High Commission of the Republic of Senegal

Name of partner:

Embassy of the Republic of Mali

Name of partner:

National Centre for Arts and Culture(NCAC)

Name of partner:

Ministry of Tourism and Culture

Name of partner:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Name of partner:

Gambian artists’ associations

Goal 4 - Promote Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms

Gender Equality

Ministries, governmental agencies and/or parliamentary bodies in charge of gender equality:

Exist and are relevant for artists and cultural professionals

Policies and measures to support the full participation of women in cultural life have been implemented during the last 4 years:

YES

Policies and measures have been adopted to support the recognition and advancement of women as artists, cultural professionals and/or creative entrepreneurs, (e.g. ensure equal pay for equal work or equal access to funding, coaching or mentoring schemes, anti-discrimination measures, etc.):

YES

Data is regularly collected and disseminated to monitor:

Percentage of women/men in decision-making /managerial positions in public and private cultural and media:

Radio - 8% Television (Online and Terrestrial) – 50% Private Cultural Institutions – 100% Public Cultural Institution – 0%

Percentage of works from female/male artists displayed / projected in important festivals of the arts and cultural industries (film, book publishing, music industry etc.):

Anecdotally WAG book and photo exhibition – 35% Film – 22% of the main film directors known nationally are women. Film producers up to 75% women Book Publishers – 57% women 13.3% of women performers in open mic festival in 2018

Percentage of women receiving art national prizes/awards:

40.00%

Percentage of women participation in cultural activities:

40.00%

Relevant Policies and Measures:

Policies to support Gender Equality

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

Impact Youth Africa

Youth Empowerment Project of the EU Gambia

Ministry of Women Affairs

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

http://www.acdhrs.org

http://www.acphr.org

http://www.yep.gm

http://www.youth4impactafrica.com

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

The Policies are: • Gender and Women Empowerment Policy 2010-2020 (is designed to equally and equitably address women and men concerns through mainstreaming gender in all policies, programmes and projects including in the creative and artistic sectors.) • Women’s Act 2010 (this was enacted in 2010 and incorporates and gives effect to the provisions of international legal instruments which empower women and protect their rights including right to participation in cultural and artistic life.) • UN Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) (this is an international legal instrument that the Gambia has ratified, that requires the Gambia to eliminate discrimination against women in all areas, and promote women’s equal rights) The Gender Policy of the Gambia was developed as an integral part of the national development objectives to enhance the overall government strategy of growth through poverty eradication. Gender being a crosscutting issue, the policy is developed along six thematic areas embracing the government’s priority development concerns. It specifically covers the priority gender issues that must be mainstreamed in development policies and programmes. This is to address the existing gender imbalances and ensure sustained and sustainable socio-economic development. The themes covered under the policy are: The policy is designed to equally and equitably address women and men concerns through mainstreaming gender in all policies, programmes and projects including in the creative and artistic sectors.) The policy also encourages participation in bridging the gender gap so as to integrate culture in sustainable development frameworks. • During the implementation period of the NPAGW 1999-2009, the Government of the Gambia in the past four years adopted both Women in Development (WID) and Gender and Development (GAD) Strategies as a guide to addressing women's concerns and gender issues. During this period, the National Policy for the Advancement of Gambian Women was the guiding document. • The Gambia Government enacted the National Policy for the Advancement of Gambian Women (NPAGW) in 1999. The policy provides a legitimate point of reference for addressing gender inequalities at all levels of government and by all stakeholders. • The major achievement of the policy includes among others, increased awareness on gender as a development concern, increase enrolment and retention of girls in schools, improved health care delivery, increase women participating in decision making, and reduction in gender stereotyping and discrimination. • Maximizing women’s participation in the creative sector through creation and sustenance of the right environment; • Build the capacity of women in media and creative sectors as participants, managers and decision makers; • Offer financial support for entrepreneurship of young women in the creative arts and media • encourage community engagement on gender equity issues. Showcase history and culture of The Gambia.

Does it specifically target young people?:

YES

Does the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) support the implementation of the policy/measure?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the policy/measure?:

• Creation of Female Musicians Association (is affiliated to the Gambia Music Union and mainly promotes women advancement in music and showbiz), • The Young Writers’ Association of the Gambia (this association is currently led by Ms Rohey Fofana, a young political scientist at the University of The Gambia. The organization’s main focus is on promoting literacy and literary culture in the Gambia through the empowerment of young women writers) • NCAC routinely provides letters of support to boost selection of female artists and cultural professionals in international fellowships. NCAC also provided recommendations for funding opportunities to boost women’s artistic careers. • Formation of Women Journalists Association of the Gambia (this Association was formed mainly to empower women and mainstream them in the workforce of journalism and media).

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

Partner(s) engaged in the implementation of the measure:

Name of partner:

The Girls’ Agenda

Type of entity:

Civil Society Organization (CSO)

Name of partner:

Gambia Women Chamber of Commerce (GWCC)

Name of partner:

Gambia Association Against Harmful Traditional Practices (GAMCOTRAP)

Type of entity:

Civil Society Organization (CSO)

Name of partner:

Think Young Women (TYW)

Name of partner:

BAFROW

Type of entity:

Civil Society Organization (CSO)

Name of partner:

Women’s Bureau

Name of partner:

Ministry of Women Affairs

Name of partner:

Gambia Women’s Federation

Name of partner:

Gambia Women’s Council

Libertad artística

The constitution and/or national regulatory frameworks formally acknowledge:

The right of artists to create without censorship or intimidation

The right of artists to disseminate and/or perform their artistic works

The right for all citizens to freely enjoy artistic works both in public and in private

The right for all citizens to take part in cultural life without restrictions

Independent bodies are established to receive complaints and/or monitor violations and restrictions to artistic freedom:

YES

Initiatives to protect artists at risk or in exile have been developed or supported by public authorities during the last 4 years (e.g. providing safe houses, guidance and training, etc.):

Measures and initiatives intended to ensure transparent decision-making on government funding/ state grants and awards for artists exist (e.g. through independent committees, etc.):

Economic measures that take the status of artists into account have been adopted or revised in the last 4 years (e.g. collective agreements, income tax and other regulatory frameworks, etc.):

YES

Relevant Policies and Measures:

Passage of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Act 2019

Name of agency responsible for the implementation of the policy/measure:

National Human Rights Commission

Website of the policy/measure, if available:

https://www.lawhubgambia.com/national-human-rights-act

Describe the main features of the policy/measure:

The NHRC Act establishes a Commission for the promotion and protection of human rights in The Gambia. • The Commission shall consist of five people (including at least two women): • These five commissioners, all of whom are appointed by the President on the recommendation of the selection panel made of representative from the Association of NonGovernmental organisation (TANGO), the Gambia Bar Association (GBA), the Gambia Federation of the Disabled, the National Youth Council (NYC), the Female Lawyers' Association of The Gambia (FLAG), the Gambia Press Union (GPU) and a government representative (who is not entitled to vote). • The NHRC is authorised to investigate and consider complaints of human rights violations in The Gambia, including violations by private persons and entities

Does it specifically target young people?:

Does the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) support the implementation of the policy/measure?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the policy/measure?:

• Commissioners have been appointed and sworn in • Training of commissioners has commenced • First newsletter has been issued

Financial resources allocated to the policy/measure in USD:

One Million Two Hundred US Dollars 1, 200,000 USD

Has the implementation of the policy/measure been evaluated?:

Partner(s) engaged in the implementation of the measure:

Name of partner:

The Association of Non-Governmental organisation (TANGO)

Name of partner:

The Gambia Bar Association (GBA)

Name of partner:

The Gambia Federation of the Disabled

Name of partner:

The National Youth Council (NYC)

Name of partner:

The Female Lawyers' Association of The Gambia (FLAG)

Name of partner:

The Gambia Press Union (GPU)

Name of partner:

A government representative (who is not entitled to vote)

Measures and Initiatives reported by Civil Society Organizations

Describe how the CSO form has been used to promote collaboration with CSOs in the preparation of this report, including the distribution of the form and the modalities of collection and analysis of the information received. Please indicate the percentage of measures and initiatives received that have been considered as relevant by the Party and included in the QPR.:

In each stage of the process, CSOs were consulted as follows: • There were six CSO members of the National Team. • CSOs participated in the Information workshop and CSO Briefing Session in July, 2019 • CSOs participated in the Validation workshop in October, 2019 and reviewed the whole QPR including the Executive Summary, Challenges in implementing the Convention and setting priorities for the next four years. • The CSO forms were distributed to the participants in the CSO briefing sessions in July 2019 and submissions invited. • CSOs conducted consultation meetings with their stakeholders to complete the forms • Additional CSO measures were solicited and included during the Validation workshop

GOAL 1 - Support sustainable systems of governance for culture:

Training Project for Theater Practitioners

Name of CSO(s) responsible for the implementation of the measure/initiative:

Gambia Union of Theatre

Cultural domains covered by the measure/initiative:

Las artes escénicas

Website of the measure/initiative, if available:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9suGWJblMRw

Describe the main features of the measure/initiative:

• Focused on the basics of theatre, 3 days • About 50 people attended from 15 theatre groups, about 65% women , all under age 35

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the measure/initiative?:

Young people’s knowledge of theatre sector enhanced

World Book and Copyright Day, World Theatre Day, World Dance Day and World Music Day

Name of CSO(s) responsible for the implementation of the measure/initiative:

Writers’ Association of The Gambia

The Gambia Union of Theatre

The Gambia Music Union

Cultural domains covered by the measure/initiative:

Las artes escénicas

Industria editorial

Website of the measure/initiative, if available:

http://foroyaa.gm/writers-association-commemorate-world-book-copyright-day/

Describe the main features of the measure/initiative:

World Book and Copyright Day celebrations included – writers’ conference, essay competition for schools and various awards. 250 + attended, about 40% women, World Theatre Day celebrations included capacity building, procession to raise awareness on theatre, mentoring sessions and cultural performances. 200+ attended, about 65-70% women. World Dance Day celebrations included capacity building, cultural carnival and stage performances. 250+ attended, about 70% women

Does it specifically target young people?:

YES

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the measure/initiative?:

World Book and Copyright Day Awarded 22 Gambian writers Raised awareness of IP and the writer Promoted participation of young people in book industry Created networks and initiatives to support artists’ mobility World Theatre Day / World Dance Day Raised awareness of young people on opportunities in theatre sector Collaboration of up to twenty groups to perform one piece Job and business opportunities for young dancers created

Advocacy for media diversity

Name of CSO(s) responsible for the implementation of the measure/initiative:

GPU in the media sector

TANGO for civil society

Cultural domains covered by the measure/initiative:

Medios de comunicación

Música

Industria editorial

Website of the measure/initiative, if available:

http://www.gpu.org

Describe the main features of the measure/initiative:

(a) The development of media pluralism and the dissemination of information (b) Lobbying the government for effective solutions to challenges. (c) Promoting access to information though a ‘free, independent and pluralistic press’, (d) Maintain and enhance professional skills and ethics (e) Monitor and redress violations of freedom of speech and to advocate for the creation and enforcement of a freedom of information law Name(s) of partners engaged in the implementation of the measure • The Broadcasters Association of The Gambia (BAG) • The Newspaper Publishers Association of The Gambia (NEPA) • Community Radio Broadcasters Association

Does it specifically target young people?:

YES

Does this measure/initiative receive or has it received International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) funding?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the measure/initiative?:

• New groupings have been formed: the Broadcasters Association of The Gambia (BAG), in August 2017 as an advocacy and technical support organization dedicated to developing the independent broadcast sector and upholding professional and ethical standards, and • The Newspaper Publishers Association of the Gambia (NEPA) established by newspaper owners • Community Radio Broadcasters Association

Implementation of Code of Conduct for media practitioners

Name of CSO(s) responsible for the implementation of the measure/initiative:

Gambia Press Union (GPU)

Cultural domains covered by the measure/initiative:

Cine / Artes audiovisuales

Medios de comunicación

Música

Industria editorial

Website of the measure/initiative, if available:

http://www.gambiapressunion.org/publication/gambia-press-union-activity-report-2015-2018/

Describe the main features of the measure/initiative:

To Promote and preserve desirable and acceptable levels of ethical standards. Name(s) of partners engaged in the implementation of the measure: GPU and media houses Main conclusions/recommendations: Review and amendment of Code of Conduct 2016

Does it specifically target young people?:

Does this measure/initiative receive or has it received International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) funding?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the measure/initiative?:

• Developed and validated a Code of Conduct for Media Practitioners and launched it on October 28, 2016 • Has provided guidance and framework for media diversity • Has Improved ethical standards of practice • Sensitized media practitioners on the principles of the code of conduct • Visits to media houses and distributing the Code of Conduct booklet

Capacity building programme for media practitioners

Name of CSO(s) responsible for the implementation of the measure/initiative:

Gambia Press Union (GPU)

Cultural domains covered by the measure/initiative:

Medios de comunicación

Industria editorial

Artes visuales

Website of the measure/initiative, if available:

http://www.gambiapressunion.org

Describe the main features of the measure/initiative:

• Advocacy, sensitization and awareness campaigns • Development of the capacity of media practitioners and media houses • Establishment of regulatory framework for the media industry Name(s) of partners engaged in the implementation of the measure: Gambia Press Union, other groupings and media houses

Does it specifically target young people?:

Does this measure/initiative receive or has it received International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) funding?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the measure/initiative?:

• Provided guidance and framework for media diversity • Improved ethical standards • Sensitized media practitioners on the principles of the code of conduct • Setting up of Media Council of the Gambia

GOAL 2 - Achieve a balanced flow of cultural goods and services and increase the mobility of artists and cultural professionals:

GOAL 3 - Integrate culture in sustainable development frameworks:

Arts for youth sensitisation on civic participation and engagement (The Cypher)

Name of CSO(s) responsible for the implementation of the measure/initiative:

Team Gom Sa Bopa

Cultural domains covered by the measure/initiative:

Música

Las artes escénicas

Website of the measure/initiative, if available:

https://www.facebook.com/The-Cypher-220-1516069995278741/posts/?ref=page_internal

Describe the main features of the measure/initiative:

• As an organisation, general concept is to use music for social change • In existence since 2012 • Monthly open mics, performance, break dancing graffiti, annual rap battle competition • Artist exchange with regional partners from Senegal, Morocco, Mali, Mauritania • Outreach programmes • Workshops on responsibility of artists in Society • Commission and produce songs on advocacy and human rights • Work with Constitutional Review Commission on ‘Get Involved’ to sensitise young people on review process • Part of the ‘Urban Platform’ – a league of cultural players in Mali , Senegal, Mauritania, Gambia and Morocco

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the measure/initiative?:

• First hip hop festival held funded by Prince Klaus foundation • More than 20,000 young people engaged on constitutional review process, through music • Empowered and mentored many of the current leading rappers who have in turn empowered others • Engages youth with positive energies especially those from disenfranchised communities • Created employment for more than 100 youth through ‘Get Involved’ • ‘Our Nation, Our Voice’ campaign with International Centre for Transitional Justice (ICTJ) which reached about 26,000 young people on the ground

GOAL 4 - Promote human rights and fundamental freedoms:

Formation of network for gender journalists for women and cultural advancement

Name of CSO(s) responsible for the implementation of the measure/initiative:

Network of Gender Journalists For Women And Cultural Advancement (NoGJWCA)

Website of the measure/initiative, if available:

https://nogjwca.blogspot.com/

Describe the main features of the measure/initiative:

Promote women’s rights in the cultural and creative sectors Raise profile and awareness of the cultural and creative sector

Does it specifically target young people?:

What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the measure/initiative?:

86 members so far, 56% of them women Almost 26 articles published so far on women and culture

On the basis of the analysis of the responses provided through the CSO form, present up to ten main priorities of CSOs to implement the Convention over the next four years.:

Identified Priorities include: 1. Working closely with NCAC in the next four years 2. Raising the profile of the cultural and creative industries, 3. Building CSO knowledge and engagement with the 2005 Convention, 4. Strengthening their capacity and contribution towards the implementation of the Convention. 5. Advocating for new opportunities for mobility, 6. Championing issues related to human rights and fundamental freedoms

Emerging Transversal Issues

Relevant Policies and Measures:

Challenges and Achievements

Describe the main results achieved to implement the Convention (at least one major achievement in one of the four goals):

Goal 1: Drafting an updated cultural policy, through a participatory process and based on the principles of the 2005 Convention (and other UNESCO Conventions). The draft is due for Cabinet Presentation which will likely happen in 2019. Goal 2: Appointment of cultural ambassadors and subsequent issuance of diplomatic passports to aid their mobility. Goal 3 Inclusion of Culture (as priority 6) in National Development Plan (2018 -2021) Goal 4 • Establishment of the National Human Rights Commission of the Gambia to monitor and address Human Rights violations including infringements on artistic freedom • Drafting of Freedom of Information Act to increase transparency in governance including of culture.

Describe the main challenges encountered to implement the Convention and the main solutions found or envisaged to overcome them:

While constitutionally, Fundamental Freedoms are enshrined, for part of the reporting period, there were instances of: Violation of the right of artists to create without censorship or intimidation Violation of the right of artists to disseminate and/or perform their artistic works Violation of the right for all citizens to freely enjoy artistic works both in public and in private Violation of the right for all citizens to take part in cultural life without restrictions Violation of journalists’ rights such as trial by media, intimidation, harassment, suppression, threats, forced disappearances etc. Some of these violations, resulted in forced exile of artists, writers, musicians, journalists and human rights activists some of whom have however returned as a result of a new political administration. One of the mitigations is the formation of an independent Human Rights Commission to address violations and monitor. Also in the last three years or so, there has been an increase in the number of local and international CSOs working to advocate artistic freedoms and human rights. For example, Youth for Human Rights now have a Gambia focal point; Gom Sa Bopa are also driving a lot of youth led – arts for social change CSO. Westminster Democracy Foundation are an international advocacy organisation and now working actively in the Gambia. Low budgetary allocation for culture, restrictive media laws have also impeded creativity and the implementation. Low awareness of the convention among stakeholders is also a barrier to implementation. Developing more sustainable mechanisms for funding of culture as already defined, will help provide needed funding for cultural and creative sectors. There is need for more sensitisation on regional and international human rights instruments affecting freedom of expression and culture. There is need to create specialised sector support organisations that can strengthen artistic and creative practice. Regulatory Bodies to implement laws that set standards and frameworks for sector operations. Translation and dissemination of the convention will help with raising awareness. Lack of funding and support for ‘artists at risk’ was a barrier to implementation of Goal 4. Creation of initiatives like an endowment fund to support artists at risk will strengthen this area. CSOs were challenged by limited knowledge of the convention, access to information, financial support and capacity building opportunities and these hampered their implementation of the convention. CSOs managed to find creative ways to mitigate these through partnerships, boot strapping and advocacy and need further support to build on what has already being achieved, and to be more resilient. CSOs should also look into their immediate environment and exploit it to the fullest.

Describe the steps planned in the next four years to further implement the Convention and the priority areas identified for future policy action based on the conclusions of the current reporting process:

NCAC, in conjunction with CSOs, has adopted the following priorities • Improved data management and collection of cultural statistics through partnership with Gambia Bureau of Statistics, PURA • Improving infrastructure for cultural activities including the construction of a multi-purpose cultural centre and development of public spaces for capacity building, showcasing and networking • Strengthen operationalisation of the copyright regime including through licencing of a collective management organisation • Developing sustainable mechanisms for funding of culture including increased budgetary allocation and exploring a Private Copy Levy (https://www.wipo.int/publications/en/details.jsp?id=4183) • Significant investment in technology to boost the strength of the industry value chain • Collaborating with CSOs to achieve CSO priorities as outlined above

Annexes

Please upload relevant documents (law, policy, agreement, regulation, strategy, etc.), studies and statistics in PDF format related to the implementation of the 4 goals and the 11 areas of monitoring of the Convention in your country. The documents should have been produced during the reporting period covered by this periodic report. Please provide the title and a description of the main content of the document in English or French.:

Attachment	Size
gambia_labour_act.pdf	2.94 MB
pura-act-2001.pdf	108 KB
copyright_act.pdf	1.33 MB
ncac_act_.pdf_2003.pdf	4.48 MB
nationalhumanrightscommissionact2017.pdf	2.36 MB
a_cutural_policy_for_the_gambia_1988.pdf	286.2 KB
copyright_act_2004.pdf	1.33 MB
gambia_ip_strategy_2019.pdf	1.14 MB
ncac_act_2003.pdf	4.48 MB
the_copyright_regulations_2018.pdf	898.05 KB
the_gambia_arts_and_culture_policy_2018_draft.pdf	636.34 KB
digital-switch-over-policy.pdf	2.7 MB
giepa_act_2015.pdf	7.1 MB
msme_policy_2019_-_2024.pdf	913.64 KB
national_enterpreneurship_policy.pdf	1.15 MB
national_export_strategy_2013_to_2017.pdf	2.69 MB
the_gambia_national_policy_for_msmes.pdf	1.59 MB
gambia_national_gender_policy_2010_to_2020.pdf	169.48 KB
public_utilities_regulatory_act_2001.pdf	110.16 KB
the_information_and_communications_act_2009.pdf	795.52 KB
national-development-plan.pdf	3.24 MB
national_employment_policy_1.pdf	204.54 KB
madrid_agreement.pdf	49.46 KB

Submission

Designated official signing the report:

Title:

Mr.

First name:

Hassoum

Family name:

Ceesay

Organization:

National Centre for Arts and Culture

Position:

Director General

Date of submission:

2019

Electronic Signature:

Quadrennial Periodic ReportGambia 2019

Quadrennial Periodic Report - - 01/30/2020 - 17:48

General Information

Technical Information

Goal 1 - Support Sustainable Systems of Governance for Culture

Cultural and Creative Sectors

The Cultural Policy of the Gambia,1988 (currently in use)

NCAC Act of 2003, Revised in 2007 and still in use (in the last four years)

The Arts and Culture Policy of The Gambia - 2018 to 2028 (Draft)

Development of an Intellectual Property Framework (Copyright Act 2004, Copyright Regulations 2018 and National IP Strategy 2019)

Media Diversity

The Gambia Public Utilities Regulatory Authority Act, 2001 (PURA)

Information and Communication Act 2009

Entorno digital

Digital Switch Over Policy 2018 (www.pura.gm/wp-content )

Partnering with Civil Society

Goal 2 - Achieve a Balanced Flow of Cultural Goods and Services and Increase the Mobility of Artists and Cultural Professionals

Mobility of Artists and Cultural Professionals

NCAC activities to support outward mobility

Flow of Cultural Goods and Services

Policies supporting export of Gambian Goods and Services including in cultural and creative sectors

Tratados y acuerdos

Ratification of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) by The Gambia

Ratification of the Protocol relating to the Madrid agreement concerning international registration of marks

Goal 3 - Integrate Culture in Sustainable Development Frameworks

National Sustainable Development Policies & Plans

National Development Plan 2018 - 2021

The Gambia Cultural Products Branding – Textile and Leather Works

International Cooperation for Sustainable Development

Gambia Cultural Cooperation Agreements with Mali, 2016; Gambia Cultural Cooperation Agreement with China, 2018; Gambia Cultural Cooperation Agreement with Senegal, 2017 South Africa, Cuba and Ghana

Goal 4 - Promote Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms

Gender Equality

Policies to support Gender Equality

Libertad artística

Passage of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Act 2019

Measures and Initiatives reported by Civil Society Organizations

Training Project for Theater Practitioners

World Book and Copyright Day, World Theatre Day, World Dance Day and World Music Day

Advocacy for media diversity

Implementation of Code of Conduct for media practitioners

Capacity building programme for media practitioners

Arts for youth sensitisation on civic participation and engagement (The Cypher)

Formation of network for gender journalists for women and cultural advancement

Emerging Transversal Issues

Challenges and Achievements

Annexes

Submission

Quadrennial Periodic Report
Gambia 2019