The Gambia on Tuesday officially launched the 2026 African Caucus Meeting which brings together senior officials from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank Group, African governments and other key stakeholders to discuss ways of fast-tracking the continent’s economic transformation.
Held under the theme “Transforming Africa’s Economies through Investment, Innovation, and Inclusion,” the high-level gathering seeks to explore practical solutions for promoting sustainable growth, strengthening regional cooperation and addressing Africa’s most pressing economic challenges.
Opening the meeting, President Adama Barrow described The Gambia’s hosting of the African Caucus as a significant milestone, saying it reflects the country’s growing role in continental affairs and its commitment to advancing Africa’s development agenda.
He said the conference comes at a critical time as African nations grapple with global economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and the growing impacts of climate change. According to the President, the theme of this year’s meeting provides a timely framework for identifying innovative and inclusive approaches to economic development.
The forum offers a unique opportunity for African leaders and international development partners to discuss common priorities and strengthen joint efforts to address challenges such as unemployment, poverty and climate change, said President Barrow.
He reiterated The Gambia’s commitment to working closely with the IMF, the World Bank Group and other international and regional partners to build resilient economies and foster inclusive growth on the continent.
On the sidelines of the summit, President Barrow held separate bilateral meetings with the Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Selma Haddidi, the World Bank Group’s Regional Vice President for Western and Central Africa, Ousmane Diagana, and the Director of the IMF’s African Department, Zeine Zeidane.
According to the Presidency, the discussions centred on strengthening cooperation, deepening development partnerships and addressing the economic challenges confronting African countries.
The bilateral engagements highlighted The Gambia’s efforts to position itself as an active contributor to Africa’s economic transformation and a committed partner in advancing sustainable and inclusive development across the continent.
