The motion for parliamentary consideration and adoption was introduced by Hon. Baboucarr Joof, the Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment.
Minister Joof explained in his presentation that the agreement is intended to facilitate the recruitment of Gambian workers to legally work in Saudi Arabia, while also guaranteeing the protection of both employers and workers. Additionally, the agreement is intended to govern the contractual relationships between the two parties.
The Parties shall collaborate to establish a recruitment, deployment, and repatriation system that is mutually acceptable for Gambian laborers seeking employment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in accordance with the relevant laws, rules, and regulations. To guarantee the recruitment of workers through recruitment offices, companies, or agencies that are licensed by their respective governments and practice ethical recruitment. As well as to guarantee that recruitment offices, companies, or agencies of both countries and the employer do not charge or deduct any cost from the salary of the workers associated with their recruitment and development, or impose any form of unauthorized salary deduction, he emphasized.
He also underscored the necessity of adhering to the pertinent laws, rules, and regulations in the recruitment, employment, and placement of Gambian workers in Saudi Arabia, thereby guaranteeing the protection of their rights and welfare.
Minister Joof also emphasized that Saudi Arabia would mandate that recruited workers adhere to specific health standards and undertake comprehensive medical examinations at reputable medical centers in The Gambia. It is recommended that prospective employees fulfill their contractual obligations.
“The implementation of the agreement will be periodically reviewed, assessed, and monitored by a joint technical committee made up of representatives from both parties, led by senior officials. The committee will conduct consultative meetings in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the republic of The Gambia, alternating between the data and location mutually agreed upon by the parties.” He also stated that the joint technical Committee may establish a sub-committee to convene on a regular basis to address issues that arise from this agreement.
He concluded by emphasizing that any modifications to the agreement would necessitate mutual written assent and must adhere to the legal procedures of both countries. The implementation of such modifications would occur on the specified date.
The initiative was lauded by numerous members of the parliamentary debate. Nevertheless, some individuals also encouraged the government to exercise caution, expressing apprehension regarding the obstacles encountered by Gambian adolescents employed in specific foreign countries.