By: Haddy Touray
Veteran Gambian animal welfare advocate Dr Heather Armstrong, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust (GHDT), has been named among a host of distinguished academics, scholars, scientists, security officers, and artists set to receive the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) at King Charles’ birthday celebration.
Dr Armstrong, the biological daughter of Bruwer known as the father of Gambian conservation has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to animal welfare in The Gambia and beyond. She is expected to receive the MBE on 14 November 2025 at Buckingham Palace in the United Kingdom.
Reacting to the honour, Dr Armstrong said the award reflects her many years of dedication to animal welfare in The Gambia, but credited her team for the achievement.
“The award is for my work in The Gambia, and whilst I am delighted that our work has been recognised, I really feel the award represents the work my team has put in, so I feel it is for us all. I am incredibly proud of the staff at GHDT and the fantastic work and treatment they achieve on a daily basis,” she said.
“I honestly do feel that the award is for the whole team because they are the ones who make the magic happen and work so hard for the animals. We couldn’t do what we do without the fantastic people who support us. So, although I am very honoured, I am also very aware that it is due to others that I have it.”
Dr Kebba Daffeh, President of the Gambia Veterinary and Medical Association (GVMA), described the award as “incredibly well deserved” and a powerful recognition of Heather’s contributions to improving animal welfare and livelihoods.
“Heather has shown immense dedication to improving animal welfare and, equally important, to enhancing the lives of vulnerable populations who rely on their animals,” he said.
He added that through GHDT’s community development, education, and health initiatives, Heather has had a significant impact. “She truly embodies empathy and compassion, and has helped shape the next generation of animal welfare advocates in The Gambia. Coming from a family of advocates, Heather and her family have made The Gambia their second home.”
Andrea Dawson, BVSc, a retired veterinary surgeon and trustee of GHDT, praised Dr Armstrong’s selfless work since 2002.
“She has worked tirelessly and unpaid for the benefit of people and animals in The Gambia. She is eternally optimistic, sees the best in people, and finds it difficult to walk away from any animal or person in need. I feel privileged to have been a part of this charity from the beginning,” she shared via the GHDT Facebook page.
