BANJUL, The Gambia, August 18, 2026/APO Group/ —
State House, Banjul, 18th August 2026: His Excellency President Adama Barrow accompanied by First Lady Madam Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow has concluded his visit to the Gabonese Republic where he was Special Guest of Honour for the 66th anniversary celebration of the Gabonese independence.
The celebration day was marked by almost 5 hours of military parade of the country’s defence and security outfit. Students of the military academies and professionals from the various security and defence forces beautifully displayed their uniforms, operational suits and military equipment, ranging from medical to engineering. With about 25% of its national budget spent on defence , the celebration was an opportunity for a public display of Gabonese military might and capabilities.
A state cocktail reception followed the parade and H.E. President Adama Barrow was given an inspirational tour of the new city of ‘Belle Roi’ built on reclaimed land from the sea.
Later on Monday evening, President Barrow accompanied by First Lad Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow met with over five hundred Gambians living in Gabon. They expressed their delight in meeting the President and assured him of their support as they witnessed the unprecedented developments shaping the country.
President Barrow reiterated his gratitude to his host for the hospitality extended to him during his visit. Responding to their concerns, the Gambian leader assured them of his determination to continue attending to the needs and aspirations of the people. Despite criticism of his government’s efforts to provide Gambians abroad with identity documentation, he pledged that his administration will facilitate the process for them. “Gambians living in other African countries are part of the Diaspora,” he emphasised.
President Oligui Nguema and First Lady Zita Nyangui Oligui Nguema saw off the Gambian leader and delegation on Tuesday morning as they departed Leone Mba Airport for Banjul. The Presidential delegation included the Foreign Minister, Honourable Sering Modou Njie and the Chief of Staff, Alieu Loum.
