It is also a moment for reflection on the progress made towards gender equality and the challenges that still persist. From leadership and governance to media and entrepreneurship, women continue to break barriers and redefine possibilities. In recognition of this important day, The Point newspaper spoke with women from diverse fields to highlight their perspectives, aspirations, and calls for greater representation in decision-making roles.
The Mayor of Banjul, Rohey Malick Lowe, extends her best wishes to all women breaking barriers and calls on President Adama Barrow to consider appointing a female Vice President. She emphasizes the need for more women in leadership across all sectors, including law enforcement, expressing her hope to see a female Inspector General of Police (IGP) in the future.
She also addressed the pressing issue of water scarcity in many parts of the country, acknowledging the role of RAFELA (Network of Locally Elected Women of Africa) in addressing these challenges. However, she urges the government to take more action to support women facing these difficulties.
Annette Camara, President of the Women Journalists Association of The Gambia, emphasizes that achieving gender equality demands collective efforts from governments, organizations and individuals.
She urged the government to enforce the 2025 National Gender Policy, which promotes equal pay, workplace protections, and leadership opportunities for women. She criticized the low number of female ministers (only three in two terms), stating that it does not reflect genuine support for women in decision-making roles.
She also calls on media organizations to move beyond symbolic gestures and take concrete steps to close the gender wage gap, eliminate harassment, and create leadership opportunities for women. “Believe in your voice. The world needs to hear it. Do not let anyone silence your ambition or make you feel unworthy of your dreams,” she urges.
Isatou Keita, President of the Gambia Press Union, shares her mixed feelings about International Women’s Day, seeing it as both a time to celebrate progress and reflect on persistent challenges.
She acknowledged strides made in education, political participation, and leadership, but highlighted that women remain underrepresented in decision-making roles, particularly in the media. Despite an increase in female journalists, very few hold executive positions, and there are no female editors shaping narratives on women’s issues.
She calls for a shift in storytelling, urging women in the media to step up and tell their own stories to challenge gender biases and cultural barriers that prevent them from assuming leadership roles.
Fatou Matta Touray, a young entrepreneur and farmer, encourages more young women to venture into farming, a field often overlooked. She sees agriculture as a space for innovation and success, stating that women can rise to the top just like men.
She extended her best wishes for International Women’s Day, urging young girls to break barriers together and seize opportunities in unconventional fields.
Honourable Fatoumatta Njai, National Assembly Member for Banjul South, emphasizes the significance of dedicating a special day to celebrate International Women’s Day. She believes it is a time to pause, reflect, and acknowledge the invaluable contributions of women not only to their homes and communities but also to workplaces and the world at large. While every day is inherently a women’s day, as women continuously demonstrate resilience, dedication, and determination, she stresses that this occasion serves as a powerful reminder of their ongoing impact in shaping a better world for all.
Teacher Ya Teneng Njie describes International Women’s Day as a time for deep reflection, pride, and hope. She expresses gratitude for the opportunity to witness the strength, intelligence, and determination of young women who are shaping the future. She highlights the transformative power of education in expanding opportunities for women, enabling them to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and pursue ambitions once considered unattainable.
Reflecting on the progress made, she notes a significant shift compared to previous generations, with more women excelling in fields such as science, technology, politics, and leadership areas traditionally dominated by men. She also observes a growing confidence among young girls, who are increasingly voicing their opinions, claiming their space, and demanding equal opportunities. Additionally, she acknowledges the improvement of support systems, including greater access to education, mentorship, and legal protections that empower women in their pursuit of success.
Fatou Faye, a seamstress, believes that International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate strength, resilience, and achievement. As both a seamstress and a sewing instructor, she has witnessed firsthand how acquiring a skill like sewing can be life-changing. It goes beyond fashion; it fosters confidence, independence, and financial empowerment.
She emphasizes that when women develop skills, they open doors not only for themselves but also for their communities. Many begin with basic stitches and eventually establish thriving businesses. Investing in skill development is key to breaking barriers and creating new opportunities.
