President Adama Barrow will officially launched the inaugural Sahel Governance Forum (SGF) this morning at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo, marking a major milestone in regional efforts to promote peace, democracy, and stability in the Sahel.

The two-day forum, taking place from 30 to 31 July, brings together high-level participants including former presidents, vice presidents, diplomats, civil society leaders, and governance experts from across Africa and beyond.

The event is co-hosted by The Gambia and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with support from the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Foundation and International IDEA.

It aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among countries in the Sahel region, tackling shared challenges such as insecurity, political instability, and climate-related threats.

Speaking ahead of the opening, President Barrow reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to strengthening democratic governance and regional cooperation.

“The Sahel faces complex challenges, but through inclusive dialogue and collective action, we can chart a course toward lasting peace and sustainable development,” he said.

Hosting the first SGF reflects The Gambia’s rising diplomatic profile and its dedication to supporting solutions for a more peaceful and secure Africa.

The forum continues tomorrow, with panel discussions and working sessions focusing on governance innovations, regional security cooperation, and citizen engagement.

By Adama Makasuba