The President Sheikh Professor Alhaji Dr. Yahya A J J Jammeh has received an accolade in recognition of his exemplary role in good governance and the implementation of the Beijing Plan of Action. The "Pride of African Women Award" was given to His Excellency by an African Women NGO called Women's Advancement for Economic Leadership and Empowerment (WAELE) at a ceremony held Friday at State House.

The Organisation also seized the occasion to decorate President as its Grand Patron. The Founder and President of WAELE Dr. Bashira Nahibi thanked the Gambian leader for consenting to be the group's Grand Patron. She mentioned some of their major achievements in the past years as a continental body, among them fostering peace and reconciliation between Sudan and Chad and ensuring that over 10,000 women in the East of Africa are empowered to improve their socio-economic livelihoods. Dr Nahibi also stated their desire for members of the organisation to participate in election monitoring, amongst other key development activities on the continent which women can play a proactive role.

Reacting to the award and decoration, President Jammeh reassured the group of his stance to promote the advancement of African women. He stated that the struggle of women in Africa cannot be separated from the struggle of the average African and therefore urged that Africans fight for the emancipation of the continent. The President also said that Africa lacks good leadership that supports its interest.

The Vice President Dr. Aja Isatou Njie-Saidy who also acknowledged the accolade as a well-deserved award, recounted the numerous achievements registered in the development sectors since the advent of the July 22nd Revolution. She also hailed President Jammeh's outstanding contribution and support to women and girls empowerment.

Other speakers at the ceremony included the Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mamadou Tangara, the Deputy Minister of Petroleum Mrs. Tenengmba Jaiteh, and the organization's national coordinator Combeh Kaira.

Courtesy of GRTS