Gambia’s Vice President, Dr Alieu Badara Joof, who died in India today, has been described as “competent, honest, and selfless” man who devoted his life in service to his country. 

Dr Joof passed away in Delhi where he was receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness. He was 66. 

He left behind a wife and seven children. 

Dr Joof, a former teacher, served as minister of higher education under Barrow government before rising to top job of vice president in 2022.

Gambians from all walks of life have been paying tributes to the late Dr Alieu Badara Joof. 

President Barrow led the tribute saying that he is profoundly shocked by the death of the Vice President. 

He describing him as “very serious, level-headed, patriotic, dedicated, competent and honest Gambian who spent his entire lifetime trying to improve the lot of mankind.”

Pierre Gomez, who replaced him as higher education minister, was visibly upset saying that “my friend is gone”. 

Momodou Sabally, campaign manager for United Democratic Party, said: “Rest in peace H.E Badara Joof. Your legacy remains alive in the thousands of people you taught.”

Lamin Camara, Gambian deputy ambassador to Guinea Bissau, described the passing away of Dr Joof as “indeed a devastating loss to the nation.”

“Late joof is honourable, humble, hardworking and results oriented. A very honest gentleman, truthful and a straight- shooter of target with a strong command in achieving objectives. 

“He had positively impacted on the lives of the Gambian people in the various capacities he served. May his soul rest in perfect peace and Janatul Firdaws be his final abode,” he said.

President Barrow has declared seven days of national mourning from Wednesday (18 January) with all flags flying at half-mast. 

Reporting by Adama Makasuba