By Mahzouba Maya Faal
On Saturday, 13th April 2024, Mohammed B.S Jallow, Vice President of The Gambia, spearheaded a thorough site inspection of Banjul International Airport and the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara (SDKJ) International Conference Centre in anticipation of the 15th edition of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) summit, scheduled for May 4th and 5th, 2024.
He was accompanied by some senior government officials, including the Secretary General and Head of the Civil Service; Chief of Staff, Office of the President, Chief of Protocol, Office of the President; and some cabinet ministers and members of the OIC Secretariat.
Vice President Jallow meticulously scrutinized crucial facilities and infrastructure essential for the successful hosting of the forthcoming summit.
The assessment commenced at Banjul International Airport, where VP Jallow and his entourage began their evaluation at the security barracks - main airport entrance, proceeding to inspect the VVIP Lounge, Apron, and Firefighting and Rescue Service Unit.
Subsequently, the delegation proceeded to the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre at Bijilo, the designated venue for the OIC summit. During this segment of the visit, Vice President Mohammed B.S Jallow toured the meeting halls/rooms and translation booths, crucial components of the conference infrastructure.
The visits afforded the Vice President and his delegation an invaluable opportunity to gauge the level of preparations for the 15th Islamic OIC Summit in Banjul.
Speaking to the press, Vice President Jallow remarked that the Gambian standard is up to par. He noted that despite this being first time it is hosting such an event, The Gambia has garnered experience from attending OIC Summits elsewhere, ensuring compliance with established standards.
He commended the Government of The Gambia, under the leadership of President Adama Barrow, for utilising local resources in the preparations, dispelling misconceptions regarding external funding. He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Finance for allocating significant resources to the Secretariat, noting the substantial investment was made to ensure the success of the summit.
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), renowned as the second-largest inter-governmental organisation with a membership of 57 states spanning four continents, coordinates the Islamic Summit. Consequently, dignitaries including presidents, kings, sultans, prime ministers, and other world leaders from the 57 member countries of the OIC and beyond are anticipated to be in attendance.
