By Mahzouba Maya Faal
The Acting Director of the Early Warning Directorate of the ECOWAS Commission, Madam Onyinge Nkechi Onwuka, on Wednesday, 4th September, 2024 paid a courtesy visit to the Vice President of The Gambia, His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, at the State House in Banjul.
Accompanied by Ms. Binta Singateh, Director of the National Early Warning and Response Mechanism Coordinating Centre, Madam Onwuka inforned that their mission in The Gambia is to assess the national early warning architecture, which is under the supervision of the Office of the Vice President.
Madam Onwuka noted that the assessment is part of a broader evaluation being conducted across various ECOWAS member states. She expressed satisfaction with The Gambia’s commitment to early warning systems, highlighting the government’s determination in this area.
During the meeting, VP Jallow informed that the bill establishing the National Early Warning Centre is currently in Parliament and is expected to become an Act by the first quarter of next year. This progress was described as the most significant takeaway from their visit.
Madam Onwuka concluded by expressing optimism about The Gambia’s efforts, stating that as the regional coordinator, they are pleased with the developments and are looking forward to the next steps.