National Agency Against Trafficking in Persons
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The National Agency Against Trafficking in Persons (NAATIP) is a Gambian government agency responsible for combating human trafficking and forced labor.
NAATIP was established in 2007 by a resolution of the National Assembly of the Gambia and operates under the Ministry of Justice. It officially began operations on December 1, 2011.[1]
Human trafficking is considered a significant issue in Gambia. According to Director Jawara-Ceesay, Gambia serves as a source country for human trafficking, with Gambians being forced into labor abroad. It is also a transit and destination country for trafficking victims forced into labor within Gambia.[2] Women, girls, and, to some extent, boys are forced into sex work and various forms of forced labor. Victims face stigma and have limited access to support services.[3]
A 2020 report by the United States Department of State noted that, despite efforts, the Gambian government did not fully meet the minimum standards for combating human trafficking.[4] In response, President Adama Barrow ordered an increase in staffing and enhanced border enforcement.[5]
In 2015, a person was convicted of trafficking 19 Gambian girls.[6] As of mid-2021, NAATIP reported that 15 human trafficking cases were being prosecuted in Gambian courts.[7]