Africa-Press – Gambia. His Excellency, President Adama Barrow on Wednesday welcomed a delegation from the U.S. Embassy and the 2025 Mandela Washington Fellows to the State House in Banjul. According to an official statement from the presidency, the visit was organized to introduce the nine young Gambian leaders selected to participate in the prestigious Mandela Washington Fellowship.
“The purpose of the meeting was to introduce the nine (9) outstanding young Gambian delegates selected for the 2025 Mandela Washington Fellowship (MWF). This prestigious program, sponsored by the U.S. Government, aims to strengthen leadership skills, expand professional networks, and foster collaboration between the United States and emerging African leaders,” the statement reads.
The statement noted that President Barrow expressed deep appreciation to the U.S. Government for its sustained investment in empowering young Gambians, particularly in the fields of leadership, entrepreneurship, and community development. He emphasized that nearly 75% of his administration’s scholarship initiatives are targeted toward the youth, with a particular focus on advancing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The President further underscored that the Mandela Washington Fellowship is closely aligned with his government’s broader reform agenda, which prioritizes capacity building and institutional strengthening. He praised the fellowship’s inclusive selection criteria, especially its commitment to gender equity, diversity, and the representation of persons with disabilities. President Barrow also encouraged the U.S. Government to expand the number of slots allocated to Gambian participants in future cohorts, reiterating that the primary responsibility for national development ultimately lies with Gambians.
Additionally, the statement highlighted President Barrow’s commendation of U.S. Ambassador Sharon Cromer for her instrumental role in deepening Gambia-U.S. relations and advancing mutually beneficial cooperation.
Speaking on behalf of the fellows, Miss Annette Camara conveyed her sincere gratitude to President Barrow for his warm welcome and to the U.S. Government for providing this life-changing opportunity. She reaffirmed the group’s strong commitment to applying their newly acquired knowledge and skills toward meaningful contributions to their communities and the nation upon their return from the six-week leadership training.
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