On Thursday, May 29th, His Excellency, President Adama Barrow, welcomed the Council of Elders from Kanifing Municipality at the State House in Banjul for an important meeting.
During the session, President Barrow addressed the council, acknowledging the ongoing development in the country but also pointing out that some individuals continue to undermine progress while still benefiting from it. He emphasized the importance of leaving a lasting legacy, noting that the work being done today will endure for future generations, who will remember their forefathers for building these monumental achievements.
The President highlighted several significant developments, including the construction of three bridges, which is a first for the country, as well as the building of road flyovers. He also outlined the government’s ambitious plans to bring electricity to 1,300 communities across The Gambia. He stressed that direct, face-to-face discussions with citizens are vital for addressing issues that affect them.
In addition to these projects, President Barrow shared plans to construct a water retention facility in the Ebo Town area, where water remains present even during the dry season. The government is exploring innovative road construction techniques for this area, which, if successful, could be replicated in other communities facing similar challenges with water.
The President also took pride in his administration’s achievements, noting that for the first time in the country’s history, a political party—the National People’s Party (NPP)—has established political bureaus in all regions and built a party headquarters. He urged for unity and collective effort to support the government’s development agenda, stressing that together, the country can achieve any goal. Currently, the government is constructing over 500 km of roads across the nation.
Furthermore, President Barrow called on parents to take greater responsibility in raising their children with discipline and respect. He stressed that parents must guide their children properly, as a nation cannot thrive without discipline and stability. He also promised to provide a vehicle for the Kanifing Municipality Council of Elders to assist with their work.
Honourable Momodou Sabally, Special Advisor to the President, urged the council to continue supporting the President’s development initiatives. He described President Barrow as a beacon of peace and democracy in Africa.
Bakary Trawally, the Executive Coordinator of Kanifing Municipality, expressed gratitude for the large turnout of elders and emphasized the significance of the meeting. He encouraged the elders and the people of Kanifing Municipality to rally behind the President as he implements his development projects.
Ba Foday Jabbi, the meeting’s organizer, reiterated the vital role parents play in the country’s progress. He stressed that for The Gambia to develop, parents must take responsibility for nurturing their children with discipline and must also lead by example, engaging in productive activities like farming. He encouraged Gambians to embrace agriculture as a means to combat the country’s economic hardships, asserting that hard work in farming would alleviate the struggles faced by the population.
Other speakers, including Pa Omar Faal, Alkalo of Latrikunda, Jake Secka, Moro Ginkene, Aja Ndemba Daffeh, and Neoka Ceesay, all expressed their sincere appreciation to President Barrow and pledged their continued support in his efforts to develop the country.
This meeting marked an important moment in fostering dialogue and collaboration between the President and the Council of Elders, with both sides expressing a strong commitment to national progress and unity.
