The Gambia celebrated 45 years of nationhood on Thursday, in yet another grand and colourful atmosphere. The celebration took the form of a march past by the security officers, school children, voluntary organizations and women's groups led by the police and army bands.

This year's Independence celebration was graced by the Senegalese President, Maitre Abdoulie Wade and the Guinean Interim President General Saikouba Conateh as Chief of Guests of Honour, as well as members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, Ministers, Senior Government Officials and a cross section of the Gambia population.

The President His Excellency Sheikh Professor Alhaji Dr. Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh delivered the keynote address on theme 'Honesty and Patriotism'.

Full text of the Presidential Address Reproduced