President Adama Barrow has lauded the ‘Peace Project’ initiative by a group of Gambian musicians, pledging hisgovernment’sfull support tothe initiative.

Over the weekend, the musicians called on the president at State House in Banjul, where they presented the project, hoping for the support of the state in promoting national unity, social cohesion, and harmony through music.

“This peace project is very important.Therewill be no progress in the absence of peace and stability. As President, my government and I will support this project to its success. I have a mandate to The Gambian people and therefore take ownership of this project,’’ President Barrow told the musicians.

He said his government places high premium on arts and culture,saying it hassignificantly increased the budget allocation for the sector.

Mr Barrow also said he would engage the competent authorities in the government to closely work with the group to revitalize the industry like it is in other countries. He said the government can create the right environment but it will be left to the people to showcase their skills and talents to realise their aspirations.

“I want to build a strong foundation that will take The Gambia forward. Without a strong foundation, we are going back to square one. We cannot make progress without strong institutions that will dictate what you should and should not do, regardless of your position,’’ he said.

However, he said that would not be possible in the absence of peace and stability, stressing that without following the due process, the country will be setting a bad precedent that will be detrimental to its development.

Lamin Cham of Champion Sound, who led the delegation to Statehouse, said the project produced a song that will include a representation of all the tribes in The Gambia. He said their approach also involves holding concerts and caravan tour across the country to promote peace and unity.