The Network of Participatory Methodologies Practitioners - The Gambia (NPMP) recently held its 2nd annual general assembly at Njawara Agricultural Training Centre (NATC) in North Bank Region. 

Presenting the annual report, Faburama Fofana, chairperson of the network highlighted the achievements registered by the network during the year under review citing the establishment of functional secretariate in Kerewan.  The Setting up of the secretariat he added, will enhance the operation of the network.

According to him, the objective of the network among other things is to create a platform for practitioners to empower the poor and the marginalized people at the grassroots to raise their voices in favour of pro-poor policies, promote and advocate for approach to sustainable and equitable development.

The Mr Fofana then urged members to review the annual work plan and budget and also share knowledge and experience on how to effectively attain the aim of the network. He also commended ActionAid-The Gambia and Future In Our Hands (FIOH) for the valuable financial and technical assistance to the network. 

Wurie Jallow, Action Aid partnership and capacity building manager assures the network members of Action Aid's continued support towards the realisation of the set objectives, by empowering the poor and the marginalised groups through participatory process to identify and prioritise their problems and to engage government and other stakeholders on the course to development.

Pa Nyangado,  NPMP coordinator urged members  to continue to serve as ambassadors of the network, by ensuring that membership fee are pay on time to enable the network secretariat effectively implement and document its activities. 

Commenting on the methodologies, Mr Nyangado underscored strategies to promote the voice of the pro-poor to ensure their effective involvement and participation in development works.

Anders Pitterson, programme coordinator, Future In Our Hands (FIOH) applauded the network members for their commitment to the principles and value of Participatory Methodologies Practitioners on policies that effect lives and livelihood of the people in their respective communities.  He assured the network of his organisation readiness to continue to provide technical assistance to strengthen the secretariat in order to serve the interest of the poor and the marginalised groups in society.