February 13, 2025

President Barrow hails Gambia’s progress in 2024, cites economic growth, tourism boom, global recognition

In his New Year broadcast on December 31, 2024, President Adama Barrow celebrated The Gambia’s progress over the past year, highlighting economic growth, booming tourism, and rising global recognition as key achievements. Addressing fellow Gambians, residents, and friends of the nation, Barrow expressed gratitude for the strides made despite global challenges.

“All praise is due to Allah, the Almighty, for sparing us to live through another calendar year,” Barrow began. “As we usher in 2025, we can all rejoice with gratitude for the successes registered in 2024.”


Barrow credited sound policies and programs for improving The Gambia’s economic and social welfare. He noted that the economy has remained steady, even amidst ongoing global crises and rising prices.

“Our economy is growing steadily, as confirmed by International Monetary Fund assessment reports. Revenue collection is improving satisfactorily, thus facilitating the implementation of major development projects, some of which are fully funded by the government,” he stated.

The president highlighted the revival of the tourism sector, reporting a remarkable increase in tourist numbers. From October to December 2024 alone, 233,411 tourists visited The Gambia, with projections of 263,764 visitors for the 2024-2025 season.

“The tourist season in the country is booming again,” Barrow said, underscoring tourism’s vital role in driving economic recovery and international engagement.

Barrow pointed to significant progress in infrastructure development, particularly in the road network, which he said is transforming travel, business, and social interactions across the nation. Institutional reforms, including the operation of various commissions, were also praised as key to strengthening governance.

The Gambia’s rising international profile was a source of pride for the President. He highlighted the country’s leadership roles at the African Union and United Nations, as well as its ranking as Africa’s third-leading defender of freedom of expression in the 2024 Global Expression Report by Article 19.

“Our profile has changed remarkably, and our credibility has grown worldwide,” Barrow said.

Acknowledging challenges such as crimes recorded during the year, Barrow reaffirmed The Gambia’s stability compared to many other nations. He urged citizens to remain optimistic and united as the country continues its path of progress.

“Our policies and programmes are certainly paying dividends, and looking into the future, there are huge prospects ahead,” Barrow concluded.

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