President Adama Barrow arrived in Sierra Leone on Tuesday as the Guest of Honour at the country’s 60th Independence Anniversary. President Barrow will be joined by other West African leaders, amongst them the President of Ghana and Chairperson of ECOWAS, H.E Nana Akufo Adoo to commemorate this historic event that marks 60 years since the end of colonial rule in Sierra Leone.
President Barrow accompanied by First Lady, Fatoumata Bah Barrow were received by his counterpart and host, His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, and First Lady Fatima Maada Bio, amidst cultural dance showcasing Sierra Leone’s beautiful culture.
Later in the evening, President Barrow was amongst special guests honoured at a state banquet at the Laagoonda Complex in Freetown.
In response to his host welcoming remarks, President Barrow, while appreciating the honour bestowed on him in celebrating the 60th Independence anniversary of nationhood, reminded the audience of the multiple ties that bound The Gambia and Sierra Leone. He recalled that the two countries supported each other in times of need.
Recalling how Gambians benefited from university education in Sierra Leone, the Gambian President called for the strengthening of collaboration in areas such as education, agriculture, trade, tourism, youth and sports and decentralised administration.
Considering the impact of current global Coronavirus pandemic, President Barrow said it has forced governments and people to redefine their priorities and urged them to collaborate to address post -COVID priorities.
He recognised and acknowledged the crucial role Sierra Leone played with other ECOWAS members to bring stability in The Gambia post-2016 elections.