About Us
Saama Kairo Federation (SKF) is a prominent local Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) based in The Gambia, dedicated to enhancing the welfare of children, youth, women, and communities. Founded with a mission to foster sustainable development and social progress, SKF has amassed over three decades of experience collaborating with various stakeholders including ChildFund, other NGOs, and the Government of The Gambia. Operating primarily in Kombo Central and Kombo East Districts, SKF has established itself as a pivotal entity in the region through its diverse range of programs and initiatives.
Programmatic Focus and Collaborations
SKF’s initiatives span across key areas such as youth and family economic empowerment, education, health, nutrition, environmental protection, and child protection. The organization operates in close partnership with local communities, leveraging collaborative efforts to implement impactful projects aimed at improving livelihoods and fostering community resilience.
Governance Structure
SKF is governed by a Board elected from parent representatives of participating communities. These representatives are nominated through Community Associations (CAs), with each CA selecting one member to serve on the Federation Board. This decentralized governance model ensures that community voices are integral to decision-making processes within SKF, fostering transparency and accountability.
Community Associations
At present, SKF comprises nine Community Associations (CAs), each of which is legally registered with the Attorney General’s Chambers. These associations—Bafuloto, Kabafita, Jamisa, Darsilami, Jiboro, Kuloro, Faraba, Kafuta, and Sohm—cover a network of villages within their respective districts. The registration of these CAs highlights SKF’s adherence to legal standards and underscores its organizational commitment to operating within the framework of national regulations.
Saama Kairo Federation’s steadfast dedication to community-driven development and its strategic collaborations underscore its pivotal role in promoting sustainable social change in The Gambia. With a robust governance structure rooted in community representation and a comprehensive programmatic approach, SKF continues to make significant strides in improving the lives of children, youth, women, and communities across its operational areas. As it looks towards the future, SKF remains committed to its mission of fostering inclusive growth and resilience among the populations it serves.
Vision
“A vibrant, well-managed, child-friendly, and environmentally conscious Non-Governmental Organization that mobilizes resources to improve the quality of life for vulnerable children and families in The Gambia.”
Core Values
Child Participation: Upholding the rights of children to actively participate in decisions impacting their lives, families, and communities.
Our Mission
The mission of Saama Kairo Federation is to create vibrant, healthy, and economically stable communities through good governance, socio-economic justice, environmental sustainability, and child-centered service delivery. SKF is committed to fostering balanced growth and development, empowering citizens—particularly women, youth, and persons with disabilities—and advocating for the well-being and protection of children. The organization focuses on community-driven development, integrating cultural beliefs, norms, and values into its efforts to enhance the social fabric of the Gambian society.
Development Goals
The Pregnancy
Infant Mortality
