President Barrow presides over stakeholders conference in Bijilo, reiterates commitment to transforming Gambia

The Gambian President, Adama Barrow, has reiterated commitment to transform the Gambia.

President Barrow expressed the commitment while presiding over opening of the Stakeholder’s Conference and Donor Roundtable on implementing the Truth Reconciliation and Reparations Commission recommendation at the SKDJ conference centre in Bijilo on Friday May 12, 2023.

According to a statement signed on Friday May 12, 2023, the convergence brought together senior government officials, the UN system in The Gambia, the EU, development partners, civil society organisations and victims to collaborate on implementing the recommendations.

In his opening address, President Barrow said the event is aimed at laying a solid foundation for a brighter and just future for all Gambians.

“This event has come at a crucial moment in our nation’s history and a critical stage in our journey to transform the dark legacy of the past, uncover the truth hidden in it, administer justice, and bring about healing for our people,” he said.

Hailing the resilience of Gambians and his government’s determination for a democratic and just society, President Barrow said setting up the TRRC in 2018 was a significant milestone in attaining justice and accountability, yielding positive results.

“We have since made significant strides towards justice and reconciliation. The TRRC’s final report and valuable recommendations have set the stage for a transformative era in The Gambia. We have arrived at a critical juncture that requires the implementation of those recommendations,” Barrow said.

The event also highlighted the unveiling of the EU-UNDP GREAT Initiative, a Nine (9) million Euros fund to support a Responsive and Accountable Democratic Transition in The Gambia.