Ghana’s Newly Elected President Mahama Makes First International Visit to The Gambia

Ghana’s Newly Elected President Mahama Makes First International Visit to The Gambia

Actualité

John Dramani Mahama, Ghana’s recently inaugurated president, embarked on his first official international trip on Friday with a one-day working visit to The Gambia.

Upon his arrival at Banjul International Airport, President Mahama was warmly welcomed by Gambian President Adama Barrow. The two leaders proceeded to the State House in Banjul, where they held a private meeting to deliberate on shared priorities, including security, trade, and bilateral cooperation.

This visit, Mahama’s first since being sworn in on January 7, 2025, following his decisive victory in Ghana’s December 2024 elections, underscores his administration’s commitment to strengthening regional partnerships.

Addressing the press after their meeting, Mahama reiterated his dedication to deepening ties with The Gambia. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Barrow for attending his inauguration, highlighting the visit as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations.

“I assured President Barrow that my government is fully committed to maintaining and enhancing the strong relationship we share with The Gambia,” Mahama stated. “I have a longstanding connection with The Gambia, both in my official capacity and personally, having been part of the delegation that mediated during the political crisis following the 2016 elections. It is gratifying to see Gambian democracy thrive.”

Mahama commended the Ghanaian troops serving under the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG), recognizing their vital role in promoting stability and strengthening democratic governance.

He also lauded The Gambia’s Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC) for its progress in addressing historical injustices, calling it a crucial step toward healing and accountability.

“We discussed the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for crimes committed during the Jammeh regime and compensating victims for their suffering,” Mahama said. “Ghana supports these efforts and encourages the international community to contribute to establishing a reparations fund for the victims.”

Mahama also reflected on Ghana’s direct stake in the TRRC process, noting that Ghanaian citizens were among those killed during the Jammeh era. He expressed satisfaction with the ongoing investigations and emphasized the need for justice and reparations for affected families.

Additionally, the two leaders explored opportunities for economic collaboration, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“We discussed how to maximize the benefits of free movement and trade within Africa, leveraging AfCFTA to drive economic growth,” Mahama noted. “We also reviewed regional security challenges, including the situation in the Sahel, and how to ensure a safer, more stable West Africa for our people.”

President Barrow praised Mahama’s visit as a reflection of his dedication to fostering unity and cooperation in the region.

“Your election victory is a testament to your resilience and leadership. Having led Ghana before, we are confident that your experience will guide you in continuing the progress you began,” Barrow remarked.

Barrow also reaffirmed The Gambia’s unwavering support for Ghana, emphasizing the close bond between the two nations cultivated over the past eight years.

The visit concluded on a note of optimism, with both leaders expressing a shared vision for enhanced collaboration and mutual prosperity in the years to come.