OIC Gambia hosts first national forum for global summit

Over the weekend, the Gambia Secretariat of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) convened its first national forum, marking a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the 15th OIC global summit scheduled for May 4th to 5th in Banjul.

The event saw a robust turnout of stakeholders, encompassing representatives from diverse communities, religious leaders including imams, alkalolu, and seyfolu, as well as delegates from the Supreme Islamic Council and the Gambia Christian Council, alongside youth leaders and women’s groups.

Yankuba Dibba, CEO of OIC Gambia, underscored the significance of the forum, emphasizing the collaborative efforts necessary as The Gambia prepares to host over 3,000 delegates, including kings, presidents, and prime ministers.

Highlighting the collective responsibility Gambians hold towards the upcoming summit, Dibba emphasized its non-partisan and inclusive nature, stressing, “We all have a stake in it.” He further noted the historic importance of The Gambia’s selection as the host country, asserting that this gathering represents the largest convergence since independence.

Nfally Fadera, Head of Communication, urged attendees to disseminate information about the OIC summit within their communities and emphasized the importance of maintaining national cleanliness and cooperation with authorities.

Vice President of the Supreme Islamic Council, Qadi Omar Secka, pledged the council’s support in raising awareness about the summit, while Reverend Leonard Allen, representing the Christian Council, affirmed the event’s significance for all Gambians, irrespective of religious affiliation.

Paramount Chief Momodou Bojang echoed sentiments of unity and commitment, assuring, “We will maintain unity and fulfill the reasons you called us here for.”

As preparations intensify, the inaugural national forum served as a pivotal step towards ensuring the success and inclusivity of the upcoming 15th OIC global summit in Banjul.