Barrow opens 11th Ordinary Conference focusing on regional cooperation

President Adama Barrow of The Gambia, serving as the current Chairman of the OMVG Conference of Heads of State and Government, delivered an opening speech at the 11th Ordinary Conference in Banjul on December 7, 2024. President Barrow welcomed delegations to the summit and expressed condolences to Guinea for recent tragic events in Nzerekoreh.

In his address, President Barrow acknowledged the contributions of past leaders such as Leopold Sédar Senghor, Dawda Kairaba Jawara, Ahmed Sékou Touré, and Nino Vieira in fostering sub-regional cooperation through OMVG. He thanked the Presidents of Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, and Senegal for their support in organizing this summit.

The conference provided an opportunity to review OMVG's activities since its last extraordinary summit in January 2016. Notably, the electricity inter-connection line among member countries is nearing completion at 99%, with significant progress on the Sambangalou hydroelectric dam. President Barrow expressed gratitude to the African Development Bank and other partners for their support but urged increased technical and financial assistance for future projects.

Despite achievements, President Barrow noted that infrequent meetings among OMVG's higher organs could hinder operations. He emphasized addressing leadership roles within OMVG's various councils and agencies during this meeting.

A key agenda item was signing conventions regarding the legal status of Kayanga/Geba and Koliba/Corubal rivers as shared international resources. This aligns with a resolution from August 2008 aimed at enhancing economic cooperation among member states.

President Barrow highlighted financial challenges faced by member countries but stressed timely contributions to ensure OMVG's success. He encouraged exploring innovative funding methods while efficiently using available resources.

He concluded by expressing hope that resolutions from this meeting would be implemented promptly and congratulated all involved parties on successfully convening the summit. President Barrow officially opened the session with wishes for continued regional integration and cooperation.