Kemo Fatty, a well-known conservationist and youth advocate in The Gambia, has officially declared his intention to run for president in the 2026 elections, promising a campaign focused on environmental protection, governance reform, and empowering the nation’s youth.

“I am officially declaring my intention to run for President of The Republic of The Gambia,” Fatty said in a statement.

“This decision comes after years of reflection, service, and dedication to addressing the challenges that threaten our nation’s future.”

Fatty is widely recognised for his grassroots activism in environmental conservation.

Over the past decade, he has led initiatives to combat deforestation, restore degraded lands, and empower rural communities. His projects, such as Green Up Gambia and his role with the Great Green Wall Frontline initiative, have made climate action central to his work.

However, despite his efforts, Fatty believes that systemic failures in governance have hindered the country’s progress in addressing environmental issues. He pointed to the declining state of The Gambia’s forests as a key symbol of deeper governance problems.

“Our forests are disappearing,” Fatty said, citing alarming statistics: “We are left with less than 40% of our forest cover, and over 80% of that is degraded. This isn’t just an environmental crisis; it’s a governance crisis.”

Fatty criticised the Ministry of Environment for disregarding his Pan-African climate action plan, which he spent four years developing, calling it a missed opportunity for real change in the country’s environmental policies.

At the heart of Fatty’s presidential bid is a call for a fundamental shift in the country’s leadership values.

He believes The Gambia needs leaders who prioritise accountability, competence, and long-term progress over short-term gains.

“This is not about a change in leadership; it’s about a transformation in mindset,” he stated.

“We need leaders who prioritize competence over convenience, accountability over complacency, and collective progress over individual gain.”

Fatty’s message has already resonated with many young Gambians, who feel disillusioned by the current political establishment.

His bold vision of a national youth movement focused on sustainability and unity has sparked significant interest, particularly among the country’s younger population.

“If my candidacy sparks a national youth movement  toward accountability, sustainability, and unity, then I have succeeded,” Fatty declared.

Fatty, who has expressed openness to joining a political party that shares his values, emphasised that his presidential run is about more than personal ambition, it’s about empowering the nation’s youth and ushering in a new era of leadership.

“Make no mistake: we are here to stay,” he said confidently. “The Gambia is ready for the youngest head of state on Earth by 2026. Whether it’s me or another youth candidate, the time for change is now.”

Fatty’s candidacy presents a challenge to the status quo, offering voters an alternative vision for the future of The Gambia, one rooted in environmental sustainability, good governance, and youth-driven progress.

“The time for change is now. Together, we can create a Gambia that values its people, its environment, and its future,” he added.

By Adama Makasuba