By: Fatou Krubally & Kemo Kanyi
President Adama Barrow has urged Gambians to embrace self-reliance, unity, and national development as the West African nation attains 60 years of nationhood Tuesday, providing a moment of soul-searching over the country’s political and socio-economic trajectory since the attainment of self-rule.
The Diamond Jubilee commemorations under the theme, “Marching in Solidarity for Self-Reliance and National Development”, was graced by President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau and Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
The Gambian leader underscored the significance of the country’s 60th anniversary, describing it as a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to nation-building and emphasized the need for Gambians to look inward for solutions to their challenges.
He highlighted the country’s resilience in overcoming political and economic hurdles while stressing the importance of unity in shaping a prosperous future.
“We must honour the past, celebrate our achievements, and embrace the present with a firm commitment to shaping a brighter future,” Barrow declared, adding that despite past difficulties, The Gambia remains steadfast in its pursuit of democracy, justice, and sustainability development.
Reflecting on his administration’s achievements, Barrow noted a 5.8% growth rate in 2024 and a significant drop in inflation from 18% in 2023 to 10% in 2024. He assured citizens that these economic gains would continue to improve in the coming years.
The president highlighted major infrastructural developments as a symbol of the country’s transformation, revealing that 910 kilometers of roads had been constructed, with work ongoing on an additional 365 kilometers.
He further announced plans to build 500 more kilometers to enhance connectivity across the nation.
The Gambian leader disclosed the construction of 424 new schools, adding that the health sector had witnessed significant progress with the rollout of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and the expansion of medical training programmes at The Gambia Medical School.
He acknowledged the persistent challenges of youth unemployment and irregular migration but assured Gambians that his government was committed to creating more opportunities.
He highlighted the Women’s Enterprise Fund, which has empowered thousands of women entrepreneurs, and the Land for Agricultural Investment initiative, aimed at engaging youth in agribusiness.
“Our youthful population is our greatest asset,” he said, urging young Gambians to seize opportunities at home instead of venturing into uncertain paths abroad.
As The Gambia charts its course into the next phase of its independence, Barrow reaffirmed his government’s dedication to universal electricity access by 2025, with 203,000 meters already connected to the national grid.
He also pledged to uphold democratic values, good governance, and the rule of law.
President Barrow called on all Gambians at home and abroad to unite in the country’s development.
“Let no Gambian feel left behind. Our unity, resilience, and unwavering hope must propel us forward,” he urged.