PS Jawara’s appointment as chair demonstrates The Gambia rising leadership in championing sustainable forest and wildlife governance across Africa.
As chair of AFWC25, PS Jawara will presides over and steers high-level deliberation on key issues such as innovativeness, financing for forest and wildlife management, sustainable wildlife conservation strategies, and inclusive approaches to safe guarding the continents natural resources.
In his closing remarks at the conclave, PS Jawara reminded that innovation is no longer optional but essential. “It is essential, whether through digital monitoring tools, participatory forest management systems, new financing mechanism, or community-driven conversation models, Africa must embrace approaches that are bold, adaptive, and forward-looking.”
“At the same time, innovation can only thrive where inclusivity is guaranteed. Women, youth, local communities, and grassroots organizations must remain at the heart of our strategies. They are not just beneficiaries; they are custodians of our natural heritage,” he pointed out.
PS Jawara added that the AFWC25 Banjul Forum has further reinforced a powerful truth; Africa possesses the knowledge, creativity, and determination to lead the world in sustainable natural resources management. “What we require is the continued strengthening of partnership, the mobilization of adequate resources, and the unwavering political commitment to turn our shared vision into measurable action.”
PS Jawara, thus, extended gratitude to Minister Rohey John Manjang for taking the bold and Pan-Africanist step in hosting the forum for the first time since it was created 66 years ago.
He also thanked the local organising committee for ensuring the success of the programme in The Gambia and also development partners such as FAO, UNDP among others.
