Dear editor,
In the lead-up to The Gambia’s upcoming census in May 2024, discussions surrounding the inclusion of questions about tribal identity have sparked debates. Delving into the theoretical framework and drawing from global examples, it becomes evident that collecting data on tribe and ethnicity is crucial for informing policies that enhance societal wellbeing across political, economic, social, and security dimensions.
Theoretical Framework: Understanding tribal identity is paramount to comprehending the complex interplay between culture, society, and individual wellbeing. Sociological theories, such as social identity theory and cultural sociology, highlight the significance of tribe in shaping individuals’ sense of belonging and social cohesion. Tribal affiliations influence access to resources, social networks, and opportunities, thus impacting various aspects of life, including health, education, and economic prospects. Global Examples: Numerous countries, including the United States and various European nations, routinely collect data on ethnicity and tribe in their national censuses. In the United States, the decennial census includes questions about race and ethnicity to ensure equitable resource allocation and address disparities in healthcare, education, and employment. Similarly, countries like the United Kingdom and France collect ethnic data to monitor social integration and identify areas requiring targeted interventions. Political, Economic, Social, and Security Reasons: 1. Political Stability: Tribal demographics inform inclusive governance strategies and foster political stability by addressing the needs of diverse ethnic groups and mitigating potential conflicts stemming from identity-based grievances. 2.
Economic Development: Tribal data enables policymakers to identify marginalized communities and design targeted interventions to reduce disparities, promote economic empowerment, and foster inclusive growth. 3. Social Cohesion: Recognizing tribal identities promotes social cohesion and national unity by acknowledging and celebrating cultural diversity, thereby strengthening the social fabric of the nation. 4. Security Considerations: Understanding tribal dynamics is essential for anticipating and addressing security challenges, particularly in regions where ethnic tensions exist, thus contributing to peace and stability. Impact on Social Indicators: Collecting tribal data in the census facilitates monitoring changes in social indicators among different tribes, including fertility rates, infant mortality rates, life expectancy, migration patterns, education levels, and health outcomes.
This data-driven approach enables policymakers to identify disparities, target interventions effectively, and track progress towards improving the wellbeing of all citizens. Dispelling Misconceptions: It is imperative to emphasize that asking individuals about their tribal identities in the census does not promote tribalism. Instead, it provides valuable insights for evidence-based policymaking aimed at addressing disparities and promoting social justice. Politicians must refrain from exploiting tribal divisions for political gain and focus on fostering patriotism and civic responsibility among citizens. In conclusion, collecting tribal data in the census is not only essential for informing policies that enhance societal wellbeing but also promotes inclusivity, equity, and national unity. As The Gambia prepares for its census, stakeholders must engage in constructive dialogue to ensure that tribal identity questions serve the collective interests of the nation, fostering prosperity and progress for all citizens.
Alieu SK Manjang
