July 2025

The Gambia hosted the Rabat Process Thematic Meeting on “Bridging the Gaps: Advancing Cooperation on Missing Migrants in the Rabat Process Region.” Co-chaired by The Gambia and Switzerland, the event was supported by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The meeting brought together delegations from 28 partner countries, international organizations, and technical experts. Held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center in Banjul, the two-day meeting marked a significant milestone as the first in-person gathering of the Network of National Focal Points (NFPs) for Missing Migrants, established under the Rabat Process framework. Speaking on behalf of the Government of The Gambia, Honorable Abdoulie Sanyang, Minister of Interior, addressed the plenary and emphasized the urgency of tackling irregular migration and addressing the challenges associated with missing migrants. He reaffirmed The Gambia’s strong commitment to regional cooperation and sustainable migration governance. Throughout the two days, participants explored the humanitarian impact of migrant disappearances, the importance of family engagement, and the need for strengthened legal frameworks and operational capacity. Key highlights included: Presentations from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) on the Missing Migrants Project, underscoring the critical need for data and informed prevention strategies; Interactive sessions on improving search, identification, and cross-border coordination; Peer learning on how to support families and uphold the dignity and rights of missing persons. The meeting also celebrated a key achievement: for the first time, National Focal Points from several Rabat Process partner countries met in person to deepen collaboration and lay the groundwork for a stronger, more operational network. In his closing remarks on day two, Ambassador Lang Yabou, PS 1 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, extended heartfelt thanks to participants, partners, and support staff, and called for sustained action: “We leave here not with despair, but with a clear roadmap for action. Let us honour the memory of the missing by strengthening our systems, supporting families, and working together to prevent further tragedies.” The Gambia also extended its gratitude to Switzerland, Nigeria (as current Chair of the Rabat Process), and institutional partners including ICRC, ICMPD, IOM, ECOWAS, and the EU Delegation. The Government of The Gambia reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to collaborating with regional and international partners to uphold the dignity and rights of migrants throughout their journey. It emphasized that no migrant should be left unaccounted for and that affected families must be treated with dignity and provided with the necessary support.

On Friday, 11th July 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad bid a warm and heartfelt farewell to its outgoing Minister, Honorable Dr. Mamadou Tangara. The occasion marked the end of a remarkable chapter in the Ministry’s history, and the beginning of a legacy that will long be remembered. In a gathering filled with gratitude and emotion, Permanent Secretary I, Ambassador Lang Yabou, spoke on behalf of the entire staff in expressing deep appreciation to Dr. Tangara for his unwavering commitment and exemplary leadership. “The Ministry was truly blessed to have had you at the helm,” he remarked. “We are grateful for your service, and for the vision and integrity with which you led us.” Ambassador Yabou also offered prayers for Dr. Tangara’s continued success, assuring him that the Ministry remains committed to upholding the values and standards he instilled. Permanent Secretary II, Ms. Fatou Kinneh Jobe, echoed these sentiments, describing her time working alongside Dr. Tangara as an honor and a privilege. “You have not only represented The Gambia, you have championed it, elevating our voice on the global stage and reinforcing our country’s diplomatic presence with strength, grace, and wisdom.” In his remarks, Dr. Tangara extended his heartfelt gratitude to the PS’s, Directors and junior staff of the Ministry. He praised their professionalism, dedication, and support throughout his tenure, emphasizing that any success achieved was a collective accomplishment. With humility and warmth, he encouraged them to continue striving for excellence in serving the nation and representing The Gambia with pride and dignity. The farewell concluded on a joyous note, as Dr. Tangara was invited to cut a farewell cake and received thoughtful gifts from staff, as symbols of affection, admiration, and appreciation for his years of distinguished service.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad held a formal ceremony to welcome the newly appointed Honourable Minister, His Excellency Sering Modou Njie, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Banjul. The ceremony was opened by Permanent Secretary I, Ambassador Lang Yabou, who delivered warm welcoming remarks, and congratulated Hon. Minister Njie on his appointment. He assured the Minister of the full support and cooperation of the Ministry’s staff as he undertakes his new role. Ambassador Yabou also acknowledged the continuous support the Honorable Minister has previously extended to the Ministry, emphasizing his commitment to diplomacy and national service. PS Yabou alluded to the commitment and dedication of MoFA staff to their work and wished Hon. Njie a successful tenure in office. Speaking at the event, the outgoing Minister, Hon. Dr. Mamadou Tangara, welcomed his successor and congratulated him on his appointment. He described the new Minister as a dedicated and hardworking public servant and encouraged the staff and Cabinet to fully support him in carrying out the Ministry’s important mandate. The newly appointed Minister, Hon. Sering Modou Njie, expressed sincere appreciation for the warm welcome. He conveyed greetings from His Excellency, the President of the Republic of The Gambia, and expressed gratitude to the leadership and staff of the Ministry for their continued commitment in advancing The Gambia’s foreign policy and promoting the country’s image on the global stage. Hon. Njie reaffirmed his commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to further strengthen The Gambia’s diplomatic relations and international presence. He also extended his congratulations to the outgoing Minister on his recent appointment as the African Union Special Representative in Mali and the Sahel. He thanked him for his exemplary service, support, and dedication during his tenure. Following the ceremony, Hon. Njie held individual meetings with all the Directors and subsequently met with staff under each Directorate. These introductory meetings provided an opportunity for engagement, sharing of ideas, and reaffirming the collaborative spirit required to fulfill the Ministry’s mandate. The Ministry looks forward to continued progress under the leadership of Honorable Njie as it works to uphold The Gambia’s interests both at home and abroad.

The newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Honourable Sering Modou Njie, today 14th July 2025 held a courtesy meeting with the Senegalese High Commissioner to The Gambia H.E. Mariame Sy at the Ministry in Banjul. The visit marks the Minister’s first official engagement since assuming office and underscores the strong ties of friendship and cooperation between The Gambia and Senegal. Discussions focused on deepening bilateral relations, regional security, cross-border collaboration, and ongoing initiatives between the two countries. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peaceful and mutually beneficial relations.