President Adama Barrow has urged Gambians to celebrate the nation’s 61st Independence by committing to integrity and transparency, pledging his government’s zero tolerance for corruption, inefficiency, and complacency.

Speaking at the Independence Day celebrations in Banjul, Barrow said true independence is hollow if it does not deliver results for the people.

“Independence requires integrity in public service, efficiency in delivery, and accountability at all levels,” he stressed, noting that public resources must serve the public good and deliver value for money.

The President linked this commitment to his government’s YIRIWA development plan, which seeks to turn political freedom into tangible progress in healthcare, education, energy, and infrastructure.

He said that strengthening institutions and enforcing transparency are critical to consolidating democracy and empowering citizens.

Barrow also acknowledged the nation’s challenges, including youth unemployment, rising living costs, and global economic pressures, but said accountability and discipline remain key to overcoming them.

He concluded by thanking civil servants, security forces, and citizens for their roles in nation-building, calling on all Gambians to unite in safeguarding the country’s hard-won independence.

“Together, let us continue building a peaceful, prosperous, and resilient Gambia,” he said.

By Adama Makasuba