THE REPUBLIC OF THE GAMBIA’S COMBINED REPORT ON THE AFRICAN CHARTER ON HUMAN & PEOPLES’ RIGHTS &
INITIAL REPORT ON THE PROTOCOL TO THE AFRICAN CHARTER ON THE RIGHTS OF WOMEN IN AFRICA
Torture of detainees and convicted prisoners is prohibited. A multi-sectoral prison`s committee is in
existence and its function include and not limited to monitoring the affairs of prisoners, promote and protect
their rights and interests.
The Prison Services Department has also taken practical steps to promote the reformation and social
rehabilitation of prisoners. This is done through education and vocational training. In 2013 a furnished
library for prisoners was built. The State Central Prison has a multi-purpose workshop, where prisoners are
trained in different livelihood skills such as tailoring, carpentry and construction. The Department in
collaboration with Insight Training Institute provided a certification skill training program in electrical
installation which the first batch commenced in 2014 and conclude in 2016. The second batch is being
trained at the moment. The other establishments, like Janjanbureh, Jeshwang and the Juvenile Wing also
have facilities built for educational purposes. A qualified teacher is provided by the Ministry of Basic and
Secondary Education to teach young persons detained at the juvenile wing at Jeshwang on a daily basis.
A qualified Doctor visits the prisons on a daily basis to provide medical services to sick inmates. A modern
standard clinic was built in the State Central Prison and is currently in use. Well trained Community Health
Nurses (CHN’s), State Enrolled Nurses (SEN’s) and Auxiliary nurses trained by the Government medical
schools are also present to attend to inmates. Additionally, the Department received a new Ambulance
from the Ministry for the transportation of ill inmates to hospital.
Prisoners also have access to their lawyers and visitors subject to the restrictions imposed by law.
Diplomatic corps and Civil Society Organizations have access to prisons upon notification of prison
authorities and in accordance with the rules and regulations regulating the same. Prisoners also have
access to letters from relatives/ friends and some have a right to regular visits.
ARTICLE 7: RIGHT TO FAIR TRIAL
1. Every Individual shall have the right to have his cause heard. This comprises:
a) The right to an appeal to competent national organs against acts of violating his
fundamental rights as recognized and guaranteed by conventions, laws, regulations and
customs in force;
b) The right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court or tribunal;
c) The right to defence, including the right to be defended by counsel of his choice;
d) The right to be tried within a reasonable time by an impartial court or tribunal.
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