The decision to introduce an upgraded Consular ID card system followed requests from Gambian communities in the United States, Brazil and Canada for an identification document that they could use in their respective countries.
In his keynote address, Ambassador Bah explained the rationale behind the initiative noting that the document is an important tool that meets the needs of Gambian communities. He emphasized that the card is particularly crucial for individuals facing immigration‑related challenges. He said the project would serve as a tool to document the Gambian diaspora community with a view to enhance effective engagement.
The Ambassador also used the occasion to assure the community elders present as well as the wider Gambian community that the Embassy remains committed to addressing their needs and aspirations.
For his part, the Consular Officer Mr. Ousman Lowe, highlighted that the core mandate of the Embassy is to protect the interests of its citizens thus facilitating the provision of consular cards. He added that the new identification cards will further support the registration of Gambians, a process that can also be done online through the Embassy’s website.
Consular Officer Lowe noted that the processing fee remains at fifty dollars ($50) and expressed appreciation to the Ambassador and staff for their support in bringing the project to fruition. He encouraged members of the community to take full advantage of the initiative.
Alhaji Bai Momodou Taal, a community elder in Silver Spring, Maryland, thanked the Embassy for the initiative and for inviting them to the ceremony. He urged the community to register and obtain their Consular Identification Cards, noting that the document affirms one’s legal identity which he described as a fundamental human right.
As part of the launching, Ambassador Bah presented the first new Consular Identification Card to Alhaji Bai Momodou Taal while Mr. Ibrahima Samateh, a community elder in Maryland, received the second Consular Identification Card.
Mr. Saikou Ceesay, First Secretary, served as the Master of Ceremony for the event.
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