The meeting was a technical engagement aimed at reviewing progress and strengthening collaboration on ongoing peace-building initiatives in The Gambia.
Ambassador Yabou welcomed the delegation and highlighted the PBC/PBF’s critical role in supporting The Gambia’s democratic transition, especially the transitional justice process, including the establishment of the TRRC, Constitutional Review Commission, Security Sector Reforms, and Legal Reforms.
He pointed out that the UN Peace-building Commission through the PBF in 2017/2018 provided catalytic funding to The Gambia at a time the country needed it most and has continued to-date. Hence, PS Yabou conveyed the appreciation and gratitude of the Government and People of The Gambia to all the donors and partners of PBC/PBF and the UN Country Team for their support and partnerships.
Ambassador Yabou informed the delegation of the importance and great contributions made by PBC/PBF interventions towards The Gambia’s progress from 2017 to the present, and underscored the importance of continued partnership and further support.
He concluded by pointing out that the new peace-building interventions in The Gambia should focus more on addressing youth unemployment, irregular migration, job creation, women and youth empowerment, supporting economic growth and institutional strengthening.
UN Resident Coordinator Karl Frederick Paul commended the leadership of the Government and reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting national peace-building priorities.
The delegation lead, Ms Bushra Hassan, from the UN Peace-building Support Office outlined the purpose of the annual mission as assessing progress, identifying challenges, and exploring opportunities to expand cooperation.
The discussion covered transitional justice, youth and women’s empowerment, security sector reform, and alignment of PBF programming with national priorities.
Donor representatives praised The Gambia as a model PBC/PBF beneficiary country while encouraging stronger monitoring and inclusive approaches.
Both parties agreed to enhance coordination, share updated program briefs, hold technical follow-up meetings, and conduct field visits during the mission.
The meeting concluded with renewed commitment from both the Government and the UN to deepen collaboration and sustain The Gambia’s peace-building gains.
