President Adama Barrow has been awarded the Amílcar Cabral Medal, the highest state honour of the Republic of Guinea Bissau, in recognition of his role in strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.

The award was conferred on President Barrow by his host, General Umaro Sissoco Embaló, during The Gambia’s first-ever official state visit to Bissau. President Embaló praised the deep historical ties between the two nations, describing them as bonds that transcend colonial boundaries.

In his acceptance speech, President Barrow said the decoration was not only a personal honour but also a tribute to the Gambian people.

“This award is a powerful symbol of the enduring spirit of freedom, Pan-Africanism, and revolutionary sacrifice that Amílcar Cabral embodied. I dedicate it to the people of The Gambia, who remain committed to the ideals of unity and friendship with the people of Bissau,” he said.

As part of the ceremony, the Mayor of Bissau, José Medina Lobato, also presented President Barrow with the Key to the City.

The Gambian leader later visited the Amira Fortress, where he laid a floral tribute at the tombs of Amílcar Cabral and former President João Bernardo Vieira, honouring their legacy in the struggle for independence and African unity.