President Adama Barrow has called on Gambians to put tribalism aside and unite for national development, warning against dividing citizens along ethnic lines when the country’s future depends on working together.

Addressing communities during his nationwide Meet the People Tour, the President challenged Gambians to stop placing ethnic identity above their shared nationality, insisting that everyone belongs to one country.

“Let’s all do away with tribalism. We are all Gambians,” Barrow said.

The President questioned what citizens gain from identifying one another primarily by tribe, mentioning Mandinkas, Fulas and Wolofs as examples of the country’s diverse ethnic communities.

“Saying this is Mandinka, this is Fula, this Wolof has no use, what is being useful,” he said, urging people to focus on issues that can improve the lives of Gambians rather than emphasise their differences.

Barrow argued that no ethnic group should be judged collectively, pointing out that every community has individuals with different characters.

“Every tribe has good people and bad people,” he said.

His message was that ethnic background should not determine how people are treated or become a source of division among citizens who share the same national identity.

The President also referred to The Gambia’s Muslim and Christian communities, calling for a spirit of coexistence and mutual understanding across religious lines.
“We are all Muslims and we are all Christians,” he said.

Barrow stressed that the country’s priority should be finding practical ways to advance development, rather than allowing ethnic labels to dominate public discussions.

“What is useful is ensuring how we can develop our country,” he said.

The remarks come as Barrow continues his nationwide Meet the People Tour, engaging communities on national issues and development priorities.

By Adama Makasuba