The Gambia government says it remained committed to introducing a visa free entry for Ecowas citizens, as immigration chiefs of the regional bloc gather in Banjul for a migration summit.

Speaking at the conference held at Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara conference centre, Baboucarr Buoye who represented the minister of interior told the conference that the government is committed to a visa free entry for citizens of the regional bloc.

“One significant step in this direction is the government’s commitment to ensuring visa free for nationals of all Ecowas member states in line with the spirit of regional cooperation and the protocols that unites us.

“The rights of Ecowas citizens to enter, reside and establish businesses must be protected and upheld and the Gambia remains dedicated to creating a conducive environment for all Ecowas citizens,” he said.

Also speaking, director general of Gambia Immigration Department Ebrima Mboob expressed gratitude to the Ecowas commission for choosing Gambia to host this year’s forum.

“This provides us with an exceptional platform for community citizens to address the critical issues surrounding free movement of our community members, challenges and migration governance in the region.

“As we converged here today, we are not only reaffirming our collective commitment to the principle of regional integration but also recognising the vital role immigration plays in fostering socio-economic development across, within and among Ecowas,” he added.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba