Banjul, 18 July 2025: His Excellency, Mohammed B.S Jallow, Vice President of the Republic of The Gambia, on Monday, 14th July, received at his office a high-level delegation from The Gambia Inter-Religious Committee.
Led by Imam Essa Foday Darboe, President of the Supreme Islamic Council and Most Reverend James S. Cole, representing The Gambia Christian Council, the delegation underscored the importance of unity, peace, and tolerance in maintaining The Gambia’s longstanding reputation as a peaceful and harmonious nation. The visit comes at a critical time, as the Committee seeks to reinforce collaboration in the face of growing inter-religious challenges.
Imam Darboe highlighted the need for religious leaders to play an active role in sustaining national peace. He presented a concept note to the Vice President for onward transmission to His Excellency the President, emphasising that religion must be a tool for unity, not division.
Echoing this message, Most Reverend Cole affirmed the need for a coordinated and unified approach in times of inter-religious challenges.
“We need an entity that can speak with one voice to the entire Gambian population during times of challenge,” he stated.
Imam Basirou Drammeh, Co-Chair of the Committee reinforced the spirit of national unity. “It is no longer about Christians or Muslims—we are talking about one Gambia,” he stressed.
Vice President Jallow commended the initiative and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting peaceful coexistence and interfaith dialogue. He lauded the Committee’s efforts in safeguarding the nation’s values of tolerance, mutual respect, and unity.
By Abdou Mbye
