The Gambia Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, has for the first time organised Diaspora Month (15th December 2024 – 14th January 2025) in honour and tribute to the role and contribution of the Gambian Diaspora in national development.
The theme of the event is: ‘Empowering The Gambia Diaspora for National Development’
Speaking on the occasion of the Diaspora Month, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Dr Mamadou Tangara said the initiative “symbolises the enduring bond between our diaspora and our homeland, reaffirming the recognition of our diaspora as the 8th Region of The Gambia—a visionary declaration made by His Excellency the President in 2018 and reinforced in the 4th Pillar of the Recovery-Focused National Development Plan 2023–2027”. He added that this recognition is not just symbolic; that it is a solemn promise to make the diaspora an integral part of our nation’s journey towards development and prosperity.
He described the theme as a call to action for our government to create an enabling environment and for the diaspora to actively engage as partners in shaping The Gambia’s future.
“The Gambian diaspora is not merely an extension of our nation; it is the heartbeat of The Gambia in the global arena. You are doctors, entrepreneurs, educators, artists, and advocates who, despite being miles away, remain steadfast in your commitment to The Gambia. Your remittances sustain families, your investments create opportunities, your expertise enriches critical sectors, and your advocacy amplifies our voice on the global stage. To you, we say a heartfelt thank you”.
Minister Tangara acknowledged the challenges that come with being in the Diaspora —“the challenges of navigating life in host countries, managing family pressures back home, and balancing your Gambian identity with the demands of your adopted homes. These are not mere obstacles; they are shared realities that must guide our efforts to foster meaningful diaspora engagement”.
The Foreign Affairs Minister went on to highlight the efforts and progress the Government, through his ministry, made in empowering the diaspora constituency and promised to listen and cooperate with members of the diaspora for a prosperous future.
Gov’t Honours Diaspora with Maiden Commemoration of ‘Diaspora Month’s
