Sowe was redeployed to head the SIS during the recent cabinet reshuffle by President Adama Barrow, a position he once served from 2017 to 2023.
During his tenure as the country’s spy chief, he has been credited for embarking on massive institutional reforms and repositioning the services to not only to be the premiere intelligence service in The Gambia, but for the service to be the best in Africa.
“These are among the best decisions President Barrow has made. I have no doubt that he (Sowe) was going to serve to the best of his ability at the Ministry of Lands and that he was going to reform that ministry and address land problem in the country. However, it’s important to note that the intelligence agency is one of the most sensitive places in any country. In fact, it controls governments everywhere in the world. Therefore, you don’t only need an experience person, but you also need an intellectual and diplomat,” Karamo Bojang, a retired civil servant said.
“We all know where the service was before the appointment of Sowe to head the institution. Now every Gambian wants to work with the service. I am quite sure he will continue the work from where he stopped with a view to ensuring continued peace and stability in the country,” he said.
Lamin Manneh, a native of Brikama, said: “DG Ousman Sowe is admired by many due to his professionalism and visionary leadership qualities as he has successfully led the Intelligence community to success. Ousman is building a legacy that will be remembered forever.”
“His visionary Leadership and community spirit inspired many across the spectrum. With all intents and purposes, he succeeded in building a vibrant Intelligence service with inclusivity where every serving member is given the opportunity without regard to ethnicity, linguistic origin or religious inclination to participate in decision making processes.”
“Sowe’s track record as DG has been marked by his dedication to upholding the rule of law, ensuring the safety and security of citizens, and fostering collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders. Under his leadership, SIS has made notable strides in addressing human rights concerns, and promoting community initiatives aimed at enhancing public engagement and cooperation.”
His appointment back to the SIS as DG, he went on, underscores the government's recognition of his exemplary leadership and commitment to public service. “Moreover, Sowe's appointment sends a positive signal of continuity and stability within the SIS.”
“DG Sowe has turned SIS into a success story for everyone to see and because of his success everyone wants to be associated with the SIS. DG Ousman Sowe knows nothing other than success; he is a master of defeating failure and installing success,” he claimed.
