Supported by the European Union through the STAR project, the forum comes at a critical juncture as The Gambia grapples with growing concerns over governance, institutional independence, security threats, and civic freedoms.
In her keynote address, Ndey Sireng Bakurin, Executive Director of TANGO, emphasised the intrinsic link between good governance, peace, and development. She referenced the recent controversy surrounding the suspension of the Auditor General, warning that undermining oversight institutions could erode public trust, weaken accountability, and fuel instability.
“Lasting peace and sustainable development can only be built on strong, independent, and accountable public institutions,” Bakurin stated. “Disregarding due process and suppressing peaceful dissent are dangerous precedents that threaten democracy.”
She urged stakeholders to defend institutional independence, safeguard civic freedoms, and foster genuine dialogue that addresses root causes of instability such as impunity and lack of transparency.
Magistrate Muhammed Krubally, President of the Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD), highlighted the importance of national security in achieving sustainable development.
“With porous borders, rising crime, and daily reports of robbery and violence, security must remain a top priority,” he said. “Without peace and security, there can be no meaningful development. All hands must be on deck to safeguard our nation.”
Krubally called on government and civil society to work collectively to build lasting peace and ensure The Gambia meets its commitments under the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Speaking on behalf of civil society, Babucarr Senghore, Vice-Chairperson of TANGO, outlined the multifaceted challenges facing the country, from youth unemployment and migration to gender-based violence and the lingering effects of past repression.
“These challenges are also opportunities for collective action,” Senghore noted. “Through inclusive dialogue and collaboration, we can strengthen resilience and chart a path to peace and inclusivity.”
He reaffirmed TANGO’s commitment, alongside its partners, to transforming dialogue into actionable policies that promote accountability and sustainable development.
Representing the Ministry of Interior, Abraham Mendy, Deputy Permanent Secretary, reiterated the government’s dedication to ongoing security sector reform, with a focus on building professional and accountable institutions.
“There can be no sustainable development without peace, and no lasting peace without security, justice, and inclusive opportunity,” Mendy stated.
He identified youth unemployment, irregular migration, gender-based violence, and land disputes as key security threats requiring holistic solutions, including community policing, youth empowerment, and reconciliation efforts.
“The policy recommendations generated here will receive serious attention,” he assured. “This dialogue must serve as a catalyst for real change.”
The dialogue concluded with a resounding call for stronger collaboration between state institutions, civil society, and international partners to safeguard democracy, protect civic freedoms, and create a secure environment for sustainable development.
With broad representation across sectors, the forum signalled a renewed national commitment to addressing The Gambia’s peace and security challenges through inclusive dialogue and joint action.
Read Other Articles In National News
