Barrow equally challenged party militants to reject propaganda that incites hatred, violence, and disunity. “Instead, let us champion a culture of dialogue, respect, and solidarity.”
Addressing a well-attended second non-elective NPP congress held over the weekend in Soma, President Barrow first returned thanks and appreciation to their tireless militants, regional and sub-regional leaders, supporters and all those who continue to toil with determination behind the scenes to promote the party’s agenda.
Barrow reminded that while leaders generally chart the course of a nation’s destiny, he believes that it is the collective spirit and resolve of the people that actually propel nations to success.
“Looking back, we have collectively transformed dreams and aspirations into visible achievements. To cite a few examples, health facilities, educational institutions, roads, bridges, modern markets, and electricity supply are no longer confined to the urban area for the privileged few.”
In a nutshell, he added that essential services are now enjoyed in all communities that were disadvantaged and marginalised in the past.
“In this way, we have reawakened hopes and revitalised visions to shape the future. We have courageously achieved what no one dared to imagine in the past, by dismantling social and physical barriers to reconnect the people and their communities, uplift their lives and livelihood, and change their world outlook.”
All these, he noted, indicate a nation rising to reclaim its rightful status on the global map, saying this is the New Gambia ‘we desire, a nation full of possibilities and opportunities for all.’
“Our 2021 Presidential victory was an emphatic endorsement of our visionary leadership and re-defined political parameters. The NPP has since established an internationally acclaimed governance system to build a future anchored in innovation, action, and inclusive development. We can easily state that the NPP unrelentingly focuses on the people, in whom resides the core essence of our nationhood.”
Thus, he challenged all to move forward together, with renewed vigour, optimism, and firmness of purpose to build a Gambia that stands tall as a haven of peace, hope, progress, and unity.
“Your sacrifices form the bedrock of our success. I will remain eternally grateful as well to the entire NPP membership for the special privilege and extraordinary honour of leading this transformative political family.”
Barrow also spoke about the achievements registered in the country thus far, reminding that in every stride they take, they invest not only in the present, but also in the leadership and legacy of future generations.
That, he added, is why they awarded fifty scholarships this year to their young supporters, in addition to other interventions.
“By doing this, we are investing in the future through the youth that personify the promise of the people.”
He observed that “at the heart of our great party’s vision and aspirations lies a deep conviction; that is, no nation can achieve meaningful development without empowering its women.”
“Recognising this truth, my government, within two years of taking office, established the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Welfare.”
As the party in government, he reminded that they have a solemn responsibility to lead by example.”
To overcome hunger, drive national progress, and compete on the global stage, he maintained that they must embrace a transformative shift towards building a robust economy.
This, he said, requires aligning our actions with the noble ideals in our Party Manifesto and our philosophy of ‘Yirrwaa’ - Progress!”
Focusing on 2026, President Barrow highlighted the need for party supporters to be more determined, more involved in the affairs of the party, and work harder to bring every Gambian on board.
“Within this spirit, I invite all party leaders, activists, civil society organizations, the private sector, and every Gambian to work with us for a better Gambia.”
