Dr Omar Touray has made history when he became the first Gambian to be elected as president of the Ecowas Commission.

Dr Touray was unanimously elected at a summit of Ecowas Council of Ministers in the Ghanaian capital, Accra on Tuesday (October 5).

He will replace Ivorian Jean-Claude Kassi Brou when his term expires next year.

The Gambia diplomat will serve a five year term from 2022-2026. 

The position rotates among the member states of the regional bloc.

The Gambia Government said in a statement: “President Adama Barrow received the news today with delight, saying it is a sign of the country’s recognition within the sub-region. 

“He noted that The Gambia had gained more respect among its peers in the sub-region since he came to office in 2017.”