Gambia: Unicef Calls for Action to Protect Children Amid Scabies Outbreak

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) is worried about a scabies outbreak. They are calling for immediate protection of children in The Gambia.

This concern follows an outbreak at Daara Madina Suwaneh Boarding School in Brufut. The outbreak has affected 57 children. UNICEF emphasizes the need for coordinated action to protect all children.

As of May 27, the Ministry of Health reported 57 diagnosed cases of scabies. This situation highlights serious health risks due to poor medical care and hygiene. Overcrowded living conditions contributed to the spread of the disease.

UNICEF is committed to upholding children's rights, especially for marginalized groups. They follow guidelines from international and national child protection frameworks.

This incident reminds us of past tragedies, like the 2021 Bilal boarding school fire. It shows the urgent need for better oversight and accountability in child care institutions.

UNICEF calls on The Gambia's government and partners to take urgent action. They recommend comprehensive assessments of all child care institutions, including Qur'anic schools.

They also urge enforcement of national standards for care facilities through regular inspections. Promoting family-based alternatives to institutional care is essential as well.

Children in these settings must have access to food, water, sanitation, and health services. UNICEF stresses the importance of rehabilitation and social reintegration for these children.

Additionally, independent complaint mechanisms should be established for children in care. Addressing these issues requires collaboration among various sectors like Social Welfare and Education.

UNICEF encourages a multisectoral coordination mechanism led by the Government. This will ensure effective interventions for alternative care in The Gambia.

"Protecting children requires collective action," says Nafisa Binte Shafique from UNICEF. "We must act now to keep every child safe."