His Excellency Mr. Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of The Gambia, officially opened the Sahel Governance Forum at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Banjul, a landmark event bringing together leaders, experts, civil society, and international partners to chart a new path for governance, peace, and regional cooperation in the Sahel.
In his keynote address, President Barrow called for bold actions:โLet this Forum be a catalyst for changeโฆ where governance works for all, where trust is restored, and every citizen feels seen, heard, and valued.โ
Hon. Sering Modou Njie, Minister of Foreign Affairs, in his intervention welcomed the delegates and pointed out the importance the Gambia attached to peace and development in the Sahel and Africa in general.โThe Gambia stands as a symbol of hopeful transition and shared commitment for future generations.โ Through this forum, we reaffirm our collective belief that only through inclusive, homegrown, and context-responsive solutions, can the region unlocks its full potential and ensure no one is left behind, asserted Hon Njie.
Ms. Fatou Kinneh Jobe, Permanent Secretary II at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, welcomed the delegates on behalf of the Government of The Gambia and emphasized the importance of inclusive governance:โThe Gambiaโs experience shows that peaceful change, grounded in respect and determination, is possible when we work together.โ
The Forum is co-hosted by the Government of The Gambia in partnership with UNDP, UNOWAS, International IDEA, and the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation. It includes the launch of the Future of Governance in the Sahel report and continues through 31 July 2025.