The President of the Republic of The Gambia, Adama Barrow, addressed attendees at the second National Dialogue Forum held at the State House. This event was part of the Diamond Jubilee Anniversary celebration marking The Gambia's political independence achieved in 1965.
In his speech, President Barrow emphasized the importance of solidarity and cooperation for national development under this year's theme: "Marching in Solidarity for Self-Reliance and National Development." He urged participants to reflect on ways to make The Gambia a better place by utilizing human and material resources efficiently.
President Barrow highlighted that "marching" symbolizes collective effort towards progress and development while avoiding past mistakes. He stressed the need for national unity, stating, "If we are to march in solidarity, we must cooperate as a nation, a people, a community."
He called for prioritizing people's interests in all areas of development and promoting self-reliance by planning based on available resources. "To be self-reliant," he stated, "we have to take our destiny into our own hands."
Dialogue was presented as a crucial democratic principle that fosters involvement and compromise. President Barrow noted that democracy is about collaboration between majority and minority groups for mutual benefit.
Reflecting on cultural diversity in The Gambia, he remarked that shared values like hard work and religious tolerance could unite citizens despite their differences. He cited past achievements under his leadership as proof of successful collaboration among political parties for national progress.
The president invited all Gambians to join efforts toward peace and stability. He emphasized using national plans and policies open to public input as mechanisms for achieving these goals.
Finally, President Barrow commended the organizing committee coordinated by his office's Director of Press and Public Relations for their efforts in facilitating the forum. He encouraged making use of reports from such gatherings to guide future actions.
"May God bless our efforts," concluded President Barrow.
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