By Yunus S. Saliu
President Adama Barrow on Tuesday commended Gambian women, particularly First Lady Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, for their support to his leadership and national development efforts.
He made the remarks in Malikunda at a joint meeting for Niamina and Fulladou, following the conclusion of a five-day tour of road project foundation stone ceremonies under the Connect Gambia Initiative in the Central River Region (CRR) and Upper River Region (URR).
“I see a team here called Team First Lady. Any strong man you see knows there is a strong woman behind him,” Barrow said. “I thank my First Lady for standing by me in politics and for helping Gambians through healthcare support.”
During the tour, the president inaugurated several road construction projects across CRR and URR.
In CRR, the projects included the 26-kilometre Bansang–Nibrass road under Lot 2, and the 8-kilometre Yoro Beri Kunda–Galleh Manda–Sololo Mandinka–Fulakunda–Ngayene–Jamu–Madina road.
Other projects under Lot 1 include the 8.25-kilometre Bati Mahmud Fana road linking Bati Njol, Bantanto, Ngawar Jookul, Ker Bamba and SBTR.
A 20.5-kilometre road project will also connect Choya, Sare Bakary, Pinai, Katamina, Malikunda, Dankunku Kung, Dankunku, Missera, Jessadi, SI Kunda, Makema, Touba Mbakeh and Wellingara.
Barrow said the infrastructure projects are aimed at improving living conditions and boosting development in rural communities.
“I am proud to be the first son from Niamina to become president. Since I came to power, development has followed,” he said.
He urged residents of Niamina to remain patient and continue supporting national development efforts.
“I want to tell the people of Niamina not to be in a hurry or afraid. Allah rewards good intentions and hard work,” he said.
The president also highlighted progress in electricity expansion, saying his administration had extended access nationwide.
“When I said I would bring electricity to all parts of The Gambia, some people thought it was politics. Today, the people of Niamina can testify to it,” he said.
Barrow added that development projects benefit all citizens regardless of political affiliation.
“When development comes, it benefits everyone, not only supporters of the NPP but also members of the opposition,” he said.
As The Gambia approaches another election period, the president called on citizens to register and participate in the electoral process.
“I need your prayers and guidance as we enter the election year. Let us all register, scrutinize, and vote wisely,” he said.