Religious leaders from Banjul and surrounding areas have commended recent national developments during the annual Muslim Elders’ audience with the Head of State, held at the State House to mark Eid ul-Fitr.
The gathering brought together prominent figures, including the Imam Ratib of Banjul, Cherno Mass Kah, the President of the Supreme Islamic Council, Essa Darboe, and other respected leaders. Chairing the event, Momodou Senghore expressed appreciation for progress made both nationally and within the capital. He also appealed for government intervention to address key concerns such as water supply challenges in Banjul, issues within the cement sector, and the need to rehabilitate the city’s central mosque.
In response, President Adama Barrow assured the elders of his government’s commitment to tackling these concerns. He highlighted ongoing efforts to modernise Banjul’s outdated water infrastructure, noting that improvements have been underway since 2018. Plans are also in place to establish a modern water system capable of serving up to one million people in the Greater Banjul Area, alongside the construction of more than 400 boreholes nationwide to ensure universal access to water.
Addressing his dual responsibilities as both head of state and politician, President Barrow spoke about recent engagements with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He emphasised the importance of continued collaboration, noting that his administration remains focused on balancing national expenditure with the delivery of essential social services. He pointed to the successful completion of the country’s first IMF programme, ongoing work on the second, and expectations for a third.
The President further reminded attendees of his government’s commitment to citizens, particularly in ensuring universal access to electricity, water, and education. On the issue of cement, he described the sector as sensitive and underscored the need to protect and empower local businesses. He assured the audience that measures are being taken to prevent shortages and strengthen the role of Gambian investors.
He also expressed gratitude to the business community for helping stabilise the prices of basic commodities during Ramadan. Regarding the renovation of the Banjul Central Mosque grounds, President Barrow pledged government support, stressing the importance of maintaining the capital’s appearance in line with other cities around the world.
With presidential elections scheduled for December 5, the President urged citizens to vote in the best interest of national progress. He called for peaceful participation in the electoral process and warned against the use of violence, noting its far-reaching consequences, including its impact on global supply chains.
In closing, President Barrow extended his best wishes to all Gambians, residents, and friends of the country, and offered prayers for continued peace and stability.
Earlier in the programme, the Minister for Religious Affairs, Hamat Bah, thanked religious leaders for maintaining discipline and respect in their sermons during Ramadan and encouraged them to continue this approach. He also announced that preparations for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage are already well underway.
