US Congressional Delegation Arrives in Gambia to strengthen democratic institutions

By Bakary Ceesay

A congressional delegation from the United States of America arrived in The Gambia Sunday for a two day visit to promote responsive, effective government and to strengthen democratic institutions by assisting legislatures in emerging democracies

The U.S. legislators, traveling with the House Democracy Partnership (“HDP”), are led by the HDP Chairman, Representative David Price of North Carolina.  The delegation also includes Representative Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma, Representative Barbara Lee of California, Representative Diana DeGette of Colorado, and Representative Alma Adams of North Carolina.

The US Embassy in Banjul said in a press release sent to Pan African Visions: “The mission of the U.S. House Democracy Partnership is to promote responsive, effective government and to strengthen democratic institutions by assisting legislatures in emerging democracies.  Central to their work is peer-to-peer cooperation to build technical expertise in partner legislatures and enhance accountability, transparency, legislative independence, access to information, and government oversight.

“During their visit, Congressional members will meet with member of the National Assembly and learn about Gambian legislative priorities and consult on legislative procedures and structures that enhance representative governance.

“They will also meet with His Excellency President Adama Barrow and members of civil society, non-governmental organizations, Peace Corps Volunteers, and various members of President Barrow’s cabinet. 

Before departing, they will pay their respects to Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara by laying a wreath at his grave in the National Assembly.”