Banjul Secures Stronger Continental Voice as Mayor Lowe Celebrates Pan-African Local Government Breakthrough

The City of Banjul has emerged from a major Pan-African local government summit with expanded continental representation, marking what city leaders describe as a significant step forward for both the capital and The Gambia.

The development followed elections held from March 22 to 24 in Nouakchott during the governing body meetings of United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG Africa), where local leaders from across the continent gathered to shape the future of municipal cooperation and urban governance.

At the center of the announcement was Rohey Malick Lowe, who hailed the outcome as a proud moment for Banjul and for Gambians committed to public service and local leadership.

West Africa Secures Presidency

Mayor Lowe congratulated Oumar Ba on his election as the new president of UCLG Africa, succeeding Fatimetou Abdel Malik.
Ba, who also serves as president of the Association of Local Governments of the West African Economic and Monetary Union, was described by Lowe as a capable and deserving leader whose emergence reflects West Africa’s growing influence in continental governance.

His victory followed what participants described as a highly competitive and strategic electoral process, with regional blocs lobbying intensively to shape the leadership direction of the organization.

Banjul Wins Seats at Key Decision-Making Tables

For Banjul, the elections brought a notable diplomatic and institutional gain. The city secured a seat on the Executive Committee of UCLG Africa with full voting rights, giving it a direct role in key decisions affecting local governments across the continent.
Banjul also won representation on the Pan-African Council, where it will contribute to shaping long-term strategies aimed at strengthening cities, municipalities, and local governance institutions in Africa.

For city officials, the appointments represent more than ceremonial inclusion—they provide a platform for Banjul to advocate for urban development, local resilience, women’s leadership, and stronger inter-city cooperation.

Leadership, Transition, and Women’s Representation

Mayor Lowe also addressed her role as president of REFELA Africa, noting that she had earlier announced her decision not to seek re-election, in line with her decision not to contest future local elections.
However, she confirmed that the REFELA Africa elections have now been postponed to May due to the extended timeline of the main sessions. She said she remains committed to ensuring a smooth and responsible transition that will continue to strengthen the voice and influence of women leaders across the continent.

A Shared Victory for Banjul and The Gambia

In her remarks, Lowe framed the outcome not as a personal achievement but as a collective milestone for Banjul and The Gambia. She thanked her family, team, and Gambians at home and abroad for what she described as their continued trust and support.

The result points to a broader opportunity for Banjul to deepen its engagement with regional and continental governance platforms at a time when African cities are increasingly central to conversations around development, climate resilience, youth inclusion, and economic transformation.

Banjul’s new representation at the continental level offers more than symbolic recognition. It creates a practical opening for the city to influence policy, attract partnerships, and learn from other African municipalities facing similar urban challenges. If effectively leveraged, this moment could help translate continental visibility into local impact for residents of Banjul and beyond.