President Adama Barrow has lauded his government’s achievements as The Gambia celebrates its 56th Independence anniversary amid a surge in coronavirus cases. 

Mr Barrow said 2020 was an unusual year due to the global coronavirus pandemic that has affected the lives and livelihoods of millions of people around the world. 

Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Mr Barrow said his government has made strides in its development programmes.

“it is a significant year for various reasons. First, it marks the end of our three-year National Development Plan. Second, it is the target year to usher in the Third Republic. Third, it is the year to elect a President, and mark the end of the current transition phase under my leadership,” the president said.

“We should note that obstacles that tend to slow down progress can actually inspire us further, and strengthen our determination to succeed,” he added. 

“This was demonstrated as we confronted the 2020 challenges, and we are more determined today than ever.”

President Barrow called for Gambians to work together for the common good.

“How far we go and how high the Gambian flag flies depend on how united we are and how closely we work towards attaining our national targets,” he said. 

The numbers of attendees at this year’s celebration were limited due to government restrictions on social gatherings. 

Reporting by Adama Makasuba