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KairaCLO celebrates legacy of President Jawara at its 2nd Pan-African Lecture

Dec 30, 2025, 12:14 PM | Article By: Ismaila Sonko

The Kairaba Conservation and Leadership Organisation (KairaCLO) on Saturday hosted the second edition of the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara Pan-African Lecture, drawing a distinguished audience of former government officials, diplomats and academia, to honour the legacy of The Gambia’s first president.

Held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo, the event underscored Jawara’s contributions to democracy, human rights, rule of law, and environmental conservation, while highlighting ongoing initiatives to preserve his vision for The Gambia and Africa.

Mbemba Tambadou, the Secretary General of KairaCLO gave a warm welcome to the packed house, acknowledging big names like the Chief Justice, Chinese Embassy reps, former VPs, and academics.

He highlighted ECOWAS's 2022 recognition of Sir Dawda Jawara as a West African leader championing human rights, democracy, and rule of law.

Emmanuel Daniel Joof, Chairman of National Human Rights Commission, paid glowing tribute to Sir Jawara, calling him one of Africa's finest politicians.

He highlighted Jawara's dedication to peace, democracy, human dignity, and human rights. Joof's words resonate with Gambians, reinforcing Jawara's lasting impact.

The former Vice President, under Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, Alhaji Bakary B. Dabo described Jawara as a leader with integrity, humility, and genuine humanism. Dabo shared personal experiences showing Jawara's deep commitment to human rights, Dabo's testimony carries weight, coming from someone who worked closely with Jawara.

Sir Dawda Jawara Jr. gave a heartfelt glimpse into life with his dad. He shared how Jawara demanded merit, discipline, and fairness.

Almameh Fandi Taal, the chairperson of the KairaCLO added context, linking Jawara's legacy to Africa's history and The Gambia's 60th independence anniversary. He called for stronger institutions to drive self-reliance, unity, and transformation.

Chief Justice Hassan B. Jallow, delivered a powerful keynote, calling the lecture series a fitting tribute to Jawara's enduring impact. Jallow, who worked under Jawara, shared firsthand experiences of the challenges The Gambia faced post-independence.

He said Jawara's contributions to good governance, rule of law, human rights, and democracy are still relevant today. Jallow credited him with building national confidence and democratic institutions.

The Pan-African Lecture Series, organised in partnership with the University of The Gambia, aims to safeguard Jawara’s legacy of leadership. Last year’s inaugural lecture was delivered by Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, focusing on Jawara’s diplomatic achievements.

The event reinforced Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara’s multifaceted legacy as a statesman, conservationist, and Pan-Africanist, inspiring continued efforts to advance his ideals in The Gambia and beyond.

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