The Embassy of the Republic of The Gambia in Washington, D.C., and the Gambian community in New York recently organised a town hall meeting in the Bronx, New York. The meeting aimed to strengthen ties between the Embassy and the community while raising awareness of the Government’s Diaspora Strategy, immigration, and consular matters.
It also provided a forum for open dialogue on issues affecting the welfare and well-being of Gambians amid current uncertainties.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Lamin Dibba, Permanent Representative of The Gambia to the United Nations, welcomed the Embassy delegation to New York. He underscored the importance of strengthening ties with Gambian communities to improve understanding of government strategies, policies, and consular services, especially during challenging times for the diaspora. He commended community members for their collaboration in organising the event.
Delivering keynote remarks on behalf of Ambassador Momodou Lamin Bah, Deputy Head of Mission Gen. (Rtd) Yakuba A. Drammeh reminded the community that although they live far from home, their realities and contributions remain deeply connected to The Gambia.
He emphasised that Gambians abroad are not merely migrants seeking opportunities but ambassadors of their country. Their conduct, professionalism, and integrity shape The Gambia’s international image. He urged them to uphold high moral standards and conduct themselves in ways that bring honor and respect to the nation.
He further advised Gambians to respect and comply with the laws and regulations of their host country, noting that responsible conduct and civic awareness are essential for continued opportunity and success.
As part of the program, Saikou Ceesay, First Secretary, presented on the Government Diaspora Strategy and its relevance to the community. He explained that the Diaspora Directorate was established for two reasons: first, the Government recognized the need to institutionalize diaspora affairs; second, the Gambian diaspora plays a significant role in influencing the country’s political, social, and economic development.
Mr. Ceesay urged the community to participate in the Diaspora Mentorship Programme to contribute through skills transfer, investment, and remittances. He encouraged registration on the Diaspora portal, http://www.diaspora.gm, to join mentorship placements in government institutions for short-term skills transfer.
He also highlighted diaspora-targeted bonds launched in 2024 and the annual Diaspora Roundtable Conference, known as the “Stake in the Nation Forum.” Both initiatives promote consultative and technical engagement with the diaspora. He added that the Embassy is mobilizing diaspora support for sustainable development through partnerships in health and education.
Mr. Ceesay called on Diaspora members, especially those on student and visitor visas, not to overstay. He noted that the current U.S. visa pause on The Gambia results from high overstay rates: 38 percent for student visas and 13 percent for visitor visas.
On Diaspora voting, he said consultations are ongoing under the Migration and Sustainable Development of The Gambia (MSDG) project between the Government and relevant stakeholders.
Ousman Lowe, Consular Officer at the Embassy, gave a detailed explanation of consular services. He outlined the section’s primary functions, documents issued, and application processes. He also introduced the new Consular ID Card and addressed other immigration-related concerns.
Speaking on behalf of the community, community leader Bakary Camara thanked DCM Drammeh and the delegation for engaging with Gambians in New York. He noted that New York has a diverse Gambian population and affirmed that they would continue to serve as good ambassadors of The Gambia.
Issued by the Embassy of the Republic of The Gambia in Washington, D.C._
