The governments of Gambia and United States of America have remembered 17 Gambians who died in a Bronx fire tragedy a year ago. 

The remembrance ceremony also celebrated the life of the late Alhaji Abdoulie Touray, a trailblazing leader of the Gambian community in New York. 

In recognition of his immense contribution to the Bronx community in New York, USA, city officials named a street in his honour. 181 Street in New York is now known as Abdoulie Touray Street. 

Dr. Mamadou Tangara, Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed thanks and appreciation to the United States Government particularly Honourable Eric Adams, the Mayor of New York City and Her Excellency Ambassador Sharon L. Cromer on behalf of the government and the people of The Gambia for the invaluable support rendered to the survivors, victims’ families and general Gambian community in New York during those difficult times.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the government of The Gambia are committed to strengthen ties with the government of the United States of America,” he said. 

The US Ambassador to The Gambia, Sharon L. Cromer, expressed condolences to the government and the people of The Gambia and the Gambian  community in New York.

She reiterated the United States’ commitment to continue supporting the survivors and families of the victims in New York and The Gambia.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba