The Gambia Library and Information Services Association (GAMLISA), on Thursday celebrated its 20 years of existence, at the July 22 Square, Independence Drive in Banjul . The theme of the day was "Information for Development?

Speaking at the occasion, Mr Abdou Karima Sonko, who deputised for the Secretary of State for Communications, Information and Technology, said that this three-day programme is considered as very timely, and the theme which is Information for Development is also appropriate, nothing that "when they talk about Information they are referring to what is being communicated and the mode in which it is communicated and GAMLISA, is an active player in this".

According to him, GAMLISA is currently carrying out sensitisation campaigns to create more awareness about the profession in the country and also to seek technical and financial assistance to enable them organise continuous educational programmes for both practitioners and users.

"I am impressed by the catalogue of achievements this young organisation has scored, it is evident they are professionals who are complement to strength in the years ahead," he concluded.

In her opening remarks, Eli Bahoum, Acting President of GAMLISA, disclosed that GAMLISA,   originally founded as GAMLISA was established in September 1987.   She indicated that one of its main objectives, is to unite all persons engaged or interested in library and information services in The Gambia. She also added that this avail them the opportunity to meet and discuss issues relating to information sciences in its widest connotation, noting that since then the association under various stewardship has grown from strength to strength, registering many International sisters   organisations, setting up documentation centres, conducting training programmes for its personnel, among others.

For her part, Janiaba Faal, deputising for the Director of the National Aids Secretariat, said that their national responses have nurtured an environment of partnership which enabled GAMLISA to actively take part in the dissemination of information on HIV/AIDS. Amongst the targeted groups are the students, youths groups and aothers.

Mr Muhammed Touray, delivered the vote of thanks.