The event, which attracted prominent figures from The Gambia and beyond, was more than a documentary launch. It became a tribute to a woman whose rise to leadership has transformed not only the capital city but also inspired women across Africa to pursue leadership and public service.
Among the distinguished guests were veteran politician and United Democratic Party (UDP) Secretary General and Party Leader, Ousainou Darboe, Bayelsa State Governor Senator Douye Diri of Nigeria, National Assembly Members, local government officials, development partners, civil society organisations and community representatives.
The documentary showcases key achievements recorded under Mayor Lowe’s administration, highlighting initiatives in sanitation, urban renewal, women’s empowerment, youth development, environmental protection and community participation. Through compelling storytelling, the production documents how grassroots leadership has been utilised as a tool for transforming lives and rebuilding public trust in local governance.
Addressing the gathering, an emotional Mayor Lowe expressed profound gratitude to the people of Banjul for entrusting her with leadership and standing by her throughout her journey.
“This story is not mine alone,” she declared. “It belongs to the people of Banjul who believe in a woman to lead the capital city. Every achievement recorded during my tenure is the result of collective effort, sacrifice and unwavering support from residents, colleagues, family members and development partners.”
She paid tribute to market vendors, youth groups, women, community leaders and members of her political party, acknowledging their contributions in helping her navigate the challenges that accompanied her groundbreaking role as the first woman elected to lead Banjul.
“You never stopped believing in me,” she said. “You carried me when the journey became difficult and reminded me that leadership is about service and commitment to the people.”
Mayor Lowe also used the occasion to recognise international partners whose support has contributed significantly to Banjul’s transformation. She highlighted collaborations with development institutions and governments, including Morocco, whose technical support and capacity-building programmes have helped advance projects in the city.
As President of the Network of Locally Elected Women of Africa (REFELA), Mayor Lowe reaffirmed her commitment to advancing women’s leadership, strengthening local governance and promoting sustainable development throughout Africa.
Welcoming guests to the event, Banjul City Council Chief Executive Officer Modou Jonga described the documentary as a celebration of visionary leadership and a reflection of the progress achieved under Mayor Lowe’s administration.
“Today we are not merely celebrating one individual,” Jonga said. “We are recognising a vision, resilience and commitment that have transformed our capital city into a model of urban development. This documentary serves as a testament to progress, community participation and the possibilities that emerge when leadership works hand in hand with citizens.”
According to him, the transformation witnessed in Banjul over recent years provides a strong foundation for future generations and demonstrates the importance of inclusive governance in achieving sustainable development.
One of the most anticipated moments of the ceremony was the presentation of a biography on Mayor Lowe authored by National Assembly Member Madi Ceesay.
Speaking about the publication, Ceesay described the Mayor as “a woman of substance and a barrier breaker” whose political journey challenged deeply entrenched norms and perceptions about women in leadership.
“Rohey Malick Lowe became the first elected female Mayor of Banjul, breaking a barrier that had stood for generations,” he said. “Her story is one of courage, determination and perseverance in the face of immense challenges.”
He recounted the obstacles she encountered during her political journey, including resistance from some quarters and societal expectations that often discourage women from seeking leadership positions.
According to Ceesay, one of the most compelling chapters of the biography details the struggles and sacrifices that shaped her political career, making her success all the more significant.
Deputy Mayor Abdoulie Aziz Dabakh Gaye reflected on his years working alongside Mayor Lowe, describing her leadership as a lesson in service, dedication and commitment.
“Leadership is not always about being in the spotlight,” he remarked. “Sometimes leadership is about loyalty, teamwork and putting community interests ahead of personal ambition. I have witnessed firsthand the transformation that has taken place in Banjul under her leadership.”
He noted that Mayor Lowe’s tenure has opened doors for women and girls while creating opportunities for youth and strengthening public confidence in local government institutions.
The international dimension of the celebration was underscored by the presence of Bayelsa State Governor Senator Douye Diri, who praised Mayor Lowe’s achievements and called for greater inclusion of women in governance across Africa.
The Nigerian governor described her as “an Iron Lady” whose leadership demonstrates the vital role women can play in driving development and democratic progress.
“Africa cannot afford to leave half of its human capital on the sidelines,” Diri said. “The progress of our nations will be accelerated when women are fully integrated into governance and decision-making processes.”
He urged African leaders to dismantle cultural barriers that hinder women’s participation in leadership and emphasised the need to create opportunities for women and young people to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Governor Diri further highlighted initiatives undertaken in Bayelsa State to promote gender inclusion, stressing that sustainable development can only be achieved when every segment of society has a voice and a stake in the future.
Throughout the event, speakers repeatedly pointed to Mayor Lowe’s journey as evidence that transformative leadership is rooted in service, resilience and a commitment to uplifting communities.
For many attendees, the Grassroots Transformation documentary is more than a record of achievements. It is a historical account of a leadership journey that challenged stereotypes, inspired women and demonstrated how local governance can become a catalyst for national development.
As the curtains closed on the ceremony, one message resonated clearly across the hall: Rohey Malick Lowe’s legacy extends beyond infrastructure projects and policy achievements. It is a legacy defined by breaking barriers, empowering communities and redefining what is possible for women in leadership across Africa.
The documentary now stands as a permanent testament to a journey that began in the streets and communities of Banjul but whose impact continues to reach far beyond the borders of The Gambia.
