Latest news with #Banjul
Zawya
8 hours ago
- Politics
- Zawya
Rebuilding Social Cohesion and Public Trust in West Africa: Banjul Hosts the Inaugural Sahel Governance Forum
The inaugural Sahel Governance Forum (FGS) opened on Wednesday 30 July 2025 in Banjul, the capital of The Gambia, at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, on the theme 'Rebuilding social cohesion and public trust in the region,' in the presence of Gambian President H.E. Adama Barrow, H.E. Goodluck E. Jonathan, former President of Nigeria, H.E. Dioncounda Traoré, former interim President of Mali, and the President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. Omar Alieu Touray. At the opening ceremony, President Barrow said that this Forum is a vital step towards redefining governance in the region. 'The Gambia is proud to host this important forum and to ensure that the benefits of lasting peace and inclusive growth are available to all Sahelians,' he added. In his address on behalf of the ECOWAS institutions, ECOWAS Commission President H.E. Omar Alieu Touray thanked the host country, The Gambia, the United Nations Development Programme, the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA International) for jointly organising this important forum on the Sahel. ' The Forum is taking place at a particularly crucial moment when the security and governance landscape of the Sahel is undergoing profound changes. By many counts this forum provides a unique opportunity to share perspectives, foster meaningful dialogue, and co-create solutions for advancing a renewed governance agenda that prioritizes social cohesion and public trust across the Sahel region, and beyond.' said President Touray. In his speech, he emphasised that 70 million ECOWAS citizens originate from the Sahelian states of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger. Even after their official departure, ECOWAS continues to consider these three countries as part of the community. And there is strong evidence that the three countries share a similar sense of belonging to the West African community. That is why ECOWAS and the three countries have agreed that, despite their withdrawal from ECOWAS and until a new agreement is reached, the people of West Africa will continue to benefit from the achievements of regional integration over the past 50 years, particularly with regard to the free movement of people and goods in the region. In addition, the two parties have agreed to work towards establishing conditions that facilitate collaboration in the fight against terrorism. 'It is in this context that we eagerly await the results of this forum, which I am confident will include innovative strategies to strengthen social cohesion and relations between citizens and the state, as well as to advance governance through stronger democratic institutions that will promote accountability, discipline and the achievement of results,' ' added ECOWAS Commission President, H.E. Omar Alieu Touray. It should be noted that the Sahel Governance Forum aims to establish a high-level, multi-stakeholder platform to advance a governance approach that is both holistic and tailored to the realities of the Sahel, for the benefit of governments and populations. This forum, which brings together more than 200 political leaders, policy makers, representatives of civil society, youth and women's organisations, and development partners, is intended to be a unique space bringing together governments, political leaders, technical experts, community leaders and citizens, the private sector and international partners from the Sahel and beyond. It also aims to promote the sharing of experiences, the exchange of ideas, mutual learning, innovation in public policy, and the monitoring of commitments made to address governance challenges in the region. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Zawya
4 days ago
- Politics
- Zawya
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) celebrates media excellence in Banjul: twelve journalists honoured at the 2025 award of excellence across West Africa
In a landmark tribute to journalistic excellence, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) hosted the inaugural edition of the ECOWAS Award of Excellence for Journalists on 25 July 2025 in Banjul, The Gambia. The prestigious ceremony brought together leading media professionals, government officials, and regional stakeholders to honour twelve exceptional journalists whose work advances peace, democracy, and regional integration, in alignment with ECOWAS Vision 2050. The award ceremony was held as part of ECOWAS' 50th anniversary and forms a core element of its commitment to strengthening governance, accountability, and citizen engagement through a vibrant and ethical media landscape. From investigative reporting to digital storytelling, the awardees were recognised for their outstanding contributions to building public trust and amplifying community voices across West Africa. In her welcome remarks, H.E. Miatta Lily French, ECOWAS Resident Representative in The Gambia, praised the laureates for their originality, courage, and determination: 'As we celebrate 50 years of ECOWAS, we honour the journalists who are narrating our transformation—your words carry the voice of our people and the vision of our future.' Delivering a special message on behalf of H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Hon. Abdoul Kolley, Director of Cabinet, reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to media as a pillar of democratic resilience and participatory development: 'In the framework of Vision 2050 and the 4×4 Strategic Objectives, ECOWAS continues to count on media professionals as indispensable partners in promoting inclusive, informed, and peaceful societies.' Speaking on behalf of the Government of The Gambia, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting, commended the regional effort and emphasized the importance of collaboration between national and regional institutions: 'This award is more than a recognition—it is a collective declaration of our belief in ethical journalism as a force for good and an engine of integration.' The awards ceremony featured vibrant performances by the Gambia Art Troupe and the official announcement of laureates in four categories: Broadcast Television, Broadcast Radio, Print Media, and Online Media. Each category honoured a Winner, a First Runner-Up, and a Second Runner-Up. The selection process, led by a seven-member independent jury chaired by Mr. Abdoulie Gassama, underscored transparency and merit-based recognition. The emotional testimonies of the awardees highlighted the challenges and triumphs of journalism in the region. Twelve journalists from across West Africa were honoured in four competitive categories — Television, Radio, Print, and Online. In the Television category, Benin's Yewoueda Djotan took home the top prize, followed by Nigeria's Marcelina Ozekhore. For Radio, the award went to The Gambia's Sankuleh Janko, with Ernest Agbotan and Serge Fanou from Benin, and Tiago Seide from Guinea-Bissau, all recognised in the third position. In the Print category, Nigeria's Paul Egime emerged as the winner, followed by compatriot Solomon Odeniyi and Senegal's Oumar Ndiaye. Finally, the Online category celebrated Nigeria's Emmanuel Onwuka Ukpo as winner, with Kodjo Simon Akpagana of Togo and Nigeria's Enoch Nyayiti Raymond taking second and third place respectively. With five of the twelve awards, Nigeria stood out as the most represented country among this year's laureates. A symbolic Signature Wall Ceremony concluded the evening, where dignitaries and media representatives pledged to uphold media ethics and information integrity across the ECOWAS region. Development partners, particularly from Germany, expressed strong support for this new initiative as part of broader efforts to promote regional stability and democratic culture. The ECOWAS Excellence Awards for Journalists were established to celebrate media professionals whose work fosters informed citizenship, strengthens accountability, and reflects the shared aspirations of the region. This initiative reinforces the ECOWAS Vision 2050 objective of building 'an ECOWAS of the People,' where peace, integration, and prosperity are communicated with integrity, courage, and truth. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Zawya
21-06-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Medal award ceremony for the 9th Nigerian company of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) mission to The Gambia
The 9th Nigerian Company (NIGCOY 9) of the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia was deployed as part of the mission on the 26th of June 2024. After completing the required period of service in the area of operation, its members were awarded the ECOWAS Peace Medal at a ceremony held on the 9th of May 2025. This distinction honours their invaluable contribution, their sacrifices, their unwavering dedication and their constant commitment to peace, stability and security in the west coast region of The Gambia. The ceremony took place in the presence of Her Excellency Mrs Miatta Lilly French, ECOWAS Special Representative and Head of Mission in The Gambia, the Gambian Minister of Defence, the Honourable Sering Modou and many high-ranking civilian and military figures. In their speeches, the speakers unanimously praised the exemplary commitment of the NIGCOY, as well as its decisive contribution to the maintenance of peace and order in the country. The Special Representative particularly congratulated the company commander on the perfect organisation of the parade, while highlighting the unit's humanitarian actions and constant support for the Gambian people. The presence of the representative of the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Lieutenant-General MO Cham, the Chief of Staff of the Gambian Army, commanders of the defence and security forces, and representatives of the local communities, underlined the strength of the ties between the Gambian Armed Forces and the Nigerian-Iranian contingent. Finally, Mission Headquarters presented NIGCOY with an official citation in recognition of its essential role in preserving peace and stability in the West African sub-region. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Zawya
19-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
G Wellness Company Limited Partners with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to Launch the First Internationally Branded Hotel in Banjul, The Gambia
G Wellness Company Limited, a subsidiary of MP Trading Group, is proud to announce its strategic partnership with Wyndham Hotels&Resorts ( the world's largest hotel franchising company, to debut the first internationally branded resort in Banjul, The Gambia, under the globally recognized Ramada by Wyndham brand. This landmark development marks a significant milestone for The Gambia's growing tourism and hospitality sector, reinforcing its status as a rising destination in West Africa. Located on the Atlantic coast, The Gambia is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and natural beauty. As the smallest country on mainland Africa, it has made impressive strides in recent years to position tourism as a key pillar of national development. In 2019 alone, the country welcomed over 620,000 visitors, with the government continuing to invest in infrastructure and travel-related services to boost its global appeal. The new Ramada Resort by Wyndham Banjul will be situated in the popular coastal town of Kotu, a well-established tourist hub known for its scenic beaches and lively local markets. Conveniently located approximately 22 kilometers from Banjul International Airport and about 15 kilometers from Banjul city center, the resort will feature 65 elegantly appointed guest rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, lounge bar, ocean-view swimming pool, wellness spa, and meeting facilities — offering both leisure and business travelers an elevated stay experience. 'Partnering with Wyndham Hotels&Resorts for this landmark project in Banjul marks an important milestone for us,' said Mr. Manish Tilokani, Chairman of MP Trading Group. 'Bringing the first internationally branded resort in The Gambia is a meaningful step in our growth, and with Ramada by Wyndham, we are committed to delivering high-quality hospitality standards. We look forward to welcoming guests to the resort by mid-2026.' 'This collaboration with G Wellness Company Limited represents a significant addition to our portfolio in West Africa,' said Govind Mundra, Head of Development – Middle East&Africa at Wyndham Hotels&Resorts. 'It reflects our ongoing focus on expanding into high-potential, underserved markets and supporting our partners in delivering trusted, branded hospitality. We value our relationship with Mr. Manish and his team and see strong potential for further development across the region.' Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Wyndham.
Zawya
19-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
G Wellness Company Limited partners with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Dubai / Banjul – G Wellness Company Limited, a subsidiary of MP Trading Group, is proud to announce its strategic partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world's largest hotel franchising company, to debut the first internationally branded resort in Banjul, The Gambia, under the globally recognized Ramada by Wyndham brand. This landmark development marks a significant milestone for The Gambia's growing tourism and hospitality sector, reinforcing its status as a rising destination in West Africa. Located on the Atlantic coast, The Gambia is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and natural beauty. As the smallest country on mainland Africa, it has made impressive strides in recent years to position tourism as a key pillar of national development. In 2019 alone, the country welcomed over 620,000 visitors, with the government continuing to invest in infrastructure and travel-related services to boost its global appeal. The new Ramada Resort by Wyndham Banjul will be situated in the popular coastal town of Kotu, a well-established tourist hub known for its scenic beaches and lively local markets. Conveniently located approximately 22 kilometers from Banjul International Airport and about 15 kilometers from Banjul city center, the resort will feature 65 elegantly appointed guest rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, lounge bar, ocean-view swimming pool, wellness spa, and meeting facilities — offering both leisure and business travelers an elevated stay experience. ''Partnering with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts for this landmark project in Banjul marks an important milestone for us,' said Mr. Manish Tilokani, Chairman of MP Trading Group. 'Bringing the first internationally branded resort in The Gambia is a meaningful step in our growth, and with Ramada by Wyndham, we are committed to delivering high-quality hospitality standards. We look forward to welcoming guests to the resort by mid-2026.'.' This collaboration with G Wellness Company Limited represents a significant addition to our portfolio in West Africa,' said Govind Mundra, Head of Development – Middle East & Africa at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. 'It reflects our ongoing focus on expanding into high-potential, underserved markets and supporting our partners in delivering trusted, branded hospitality. We value our relationship with Mr. Manish and his team and see strong potential for further development across the region.'
