𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐀𝐟𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐬 m𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 r𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐔–𝐄𝐂𝐎𝐖𝐀𝐒 p𝐫𝐞-e𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 f𝐚𝐜𝐭-f𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 m𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧

In welcoming the delegation, the Minister expressed the Government of The Gambia’s appreciation for the continued support and partnership of both the AU and ECOWAS in strengthening democratic governance and promoting peace and stability in the country.

He noted that the mission’s visit forms part of an important governance process aimed at assessing the country’s preparedness for the forthcoming elections. The Minister emphasized that AU and ECOWAS have played a pivotal role in supporting The Gambia’s democratic transition and institutional reforms since 2017.

“The Government and people of The Gambia remain deeply grateful for the strategic role played by AU and ECOWAS in facilitating our transition to democracy. It is because of this support and cooperation that our citizens continue to enjoy peace, stability, and tranquility,” the Minister stated.

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to democratic principles, the rule of law, constitutional governance, and the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms. He assured the delegation that The Gambia will continue to uphold democratic values and strengthen institutions responsible for delivering credible, peaceful, and transparent elections.

The Minister further highlighted ongoing electoral preparations by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), including the recently concluded nationwide supplementary voter registration exercise, and underscored the Government’s efforts to promote civic education and maintain a peaceful electoral environment. He reiterated the Government’s firm stance against hate speech, tribal politics, and any actions capable of undermining national cohesion and stability ahead of the elections.

The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Ambassador Lang Yabou, also welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the work of the AU–ECOWAS Pre-Election Fact-Finding Mission during its stay in The Gambia. He emphasized the importance of constructive engagement with national stakeholders and reiterated the Government’s readiness to facilitate the mission’s activities in accordance with established procedures and national laws.

The Minister also commended the African Union, UNOWAS and ECOWAS for their unwavering commitment to peacebuilding, democracy promotion, and regional integration across the continent, while reaffirming The Gambia’s readiness to cooperate fully with the mission and future election observation efforts.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Dr. Kwadwo Afari-Gyan, Head of the AU–ECOWAS Pre-Election Fact-Finding Mission, thanked the Government of The Gambia for the warm reception and commended the country for the democratic progress achieved over the years.

He observed that democracy is a continuous process that requires the collective commitment of governments, institutions, political actors, civil society, and citizens. He noted that the mission’s objective is to engage key stakeholders, assess the pre-election environment, and provide recommendations aimed at supporting peaceful, inclusive, and credible elections.

Dr. Kwadwo Afari-Gyan reiterated the commitment of both the African Union and ECOWAS to supporting The Gambia’s democratic consolidation and expressed confidence in the country’s continued progress toward strengthening democratic governance and electoral integrity.

The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to constructive dialogue, cooperation, and the promotion of peace, stability, and democracy in The Gambia.