Gender analysis of climate and disaster risk finance and insurance in The Gambia

This report analyses the extent to which gender considerations are currently integrated into Climate and Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance (CDRFI) in The Gambia, identifying key challenges and gaps, and providing actionable recommendations for fostering a more inclusive and resilient future. The Gambia is increasingly vulnerable to climate change, facing threats such as rising sea levels and more frequent and intense disasters. Recurring droughts and floods lead to significant economic and social losses, highlighting the nation’s vulnerability.

These climate-related events disproportionately affect women and marginalised social groups due to factors like reliance on rain-fed agriculture and limited access to resources. Prevailing socio-cultural norms – such as the gendered division of labour with implications for income generation and resource accumulation, as well as financial inclusion – further amplify the susceptibility of these groups to climate shocks. Despite the recognition of gender equality and social inclusion in various national policies, significant disparities persist within The Gambian society. Women, men, children, the elderly, people with disabilities, and marginalised minority groups experience the impacts of climate change and disasters differently. These existing inequalities often exacerbate the vulnerability of certain groups and impede their access to and benefits from CDRFI mechanisms.