In The Gambia, the French diplomatic mission in Fajara hosted an official celebration on Monday, July 14, bringing together members of the diplomatic community, students, partners, and the media for an evening of cocktails and dinner. The event, held at the mission’s premises, was presided over by Mr. Stéphane Dovert, the current French Chargé d’Affaires to The Gambia.
In The Gambia, home to many French learners and members of the Francophone community, Bastille Day was observed with a series of cultural events organised by language schools, embassies, and civil society groups. The day offered an opportunity to reflect not only on France’s revolutionary past, but also on the values of liberty, equality, and fraternity that continue to inspire democratic movements around the world.
Celebrated every year on July 14, Bastille Day marks the 1789 storming of the Bastille prison in Paris – a turning point in the French Revolution that symbolised the people’s resistance against absolute monarchy and tyranny.
In a heartfelt address, Stéphane Dovert, the French Chargé d’Affaires to The Gambia, outlined a powerful vision of hope, resilience, and shared responsibility for the country’s future. He emphasised that while every issue may appeal as a priority, all are deeply interconnected and all matter.
Dovert expressed hope that basic needs such as food, education, and employment opportunities will be accessible to all Gambians. He called for a future where youth are empowered to thrive at home rather than risking their lives chasing uncertain dreams abroad. He also underscored the urgent need for universal access to healthcare, safe childbirth, and timely treatment of preventable diseases.
He envisioned a Gambia where rural communities are connected by roads and enjoy affordable electricity, where farmers never run short of water, and where harvests are preserved through better infrastructure. He encouraged investment in local industries to reduce import dependence and strengthen the national economy. Environmental sustainability, climate adaptation, and biodiversity protection were also highlighted as critical national priorities.
Justice, peace, and security featured prominently in his remarks. Dovert stressed the importance of addressing past injustices and maintaining a professional, peaceful national armed force. But beyond hopes, he praised the determination and hard work of Gambians who strive every day often with limited resources to improve their communities and build the nation.
He reminded the audience that a country’s vitality does not lie solely in government action. Artistes, musicians, filmmakers, chiefs, athletes, civil society actors, and journalists all contribute to shaping a vibrant, accountable, and inclusive society.
Recognising the private sector’s essential role in development, he called attention to entrepreneurs, startups, farmers, lawyers, and business associations as key drivers of progress.
He also acknowledged the support of the international community, including representatives from the United Nations, the European Union, ECOWAS, the United States, and international agencies such as the IMF, UNDP, UNFPA, WHO, and IOM.
Sering Modou Njie, minister for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad, extended his congratulations to the government and people of the French Republic on the occasion of Bastille Day, describing it as a powerful symbol of unity and democratic values.
He noted that the day serves as a reminder of the enduring strength of shared ideals and the importance of strong partnerships. Minister Njie reaffirmed that The Gambia is proud to consider France one of its most trusted allies with an enduring relationship built on mutual understanding, solidarity, and cooperation.
This year’s celebration also held personal significance for the minister, as it coincided with his official assumption of duties as The Gambia’s Foreign Minister. He took the opportunity to recognise his predecessor, Hon. Dr. Mamadou Tangara, and expressed gratitude for the foundation laid before him.
He acknowledged France’s continued support to The Gambia since 2018, amounting to over 51 million euros, which has contributed significantly to improving food security, water access, agriculture, and youth empowerment.
