The Executive Director of the World Bank Group, Dr. Zarau Kibwe, concluded a two-day mission to The Gambia on Tuesday, 9th December 2025, highlighting the country’s growing collaboration with the international financial institution and reinforcing preparations for the 2026 African Caucus, which The Gambia will host under the chairmanship of the Hon. Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Seedy K.M. Keita.
Dr. Kibwe arrived in Banjul on the evening of December 8 and was warmly received at the Banjul International Airport by Minister Keita. The delegation was joined by the Permanent Secretary, the World Bank Country Director, and a Senior Economist from the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs. The Executive Director’s visit underscored the strong partnership between The Gambia and the World Bank Group, with discussions focused on emerging opportunities for collaboration and continued support for national development priorities.
During the mission, Dr. Kibwe held consultations with Government authorities, including a courtesy visit to the Vice President, His Excellency Dr. Mohammed B.S. Jallow, and a meeting with Minister Keita at the Ministry of Finance. Discussions covered ongoing reforms, budget support frameworks, and priority sectors including energy, roads, and broader infrastructure development. Minister Keita expressed appreciation for the World Bank’s continued support in strengthening systems, improving processes, and enhancing institutional resilience.
The Executive Director also engaged with sector leaders, meeting the Ministers of Agriculture and Health, as well as the CEO of the Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Furthermore, the delegation visited the University of Science, Engineering, and Technology to discuss science and technology priorities that align with the World Bank’s agenda. During these engagements, Dr. Kibwe announced a flagship initiative for 2026, titled “AI for Development”, which will focus on Education, Health, and Agriculture.
The mission concluded with a site visit to the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center in Bijilo. Accompanied by the Director of Economic Policy and Research, the World Bank Country Representative, and a Senior Economist from the Ministry of Finance, Dr. Kibwe was taken on a guided tour of the facility. He commended the SDKJ Conference Center as a state-of-the-art venue capable of accommodating high-level dignitaries and described it as ready to host the 2026 African Caucus.
The African Caucus is a joint platform of all African Governors to the IMF and the World Bank Group, created to strengthen Africa’s collective voice. Hosting the Caucus presents an important opportunity for The Gambia to showcase its national facilities and contribute meaningfully to shaping parts of the continental agenda.
Dr. Kibwe’s visit, which took place from December 8 to 9, further underscores The Gambia’s commitment under the leadership of President Adama Barrow to deepen partnerships that drive sustainable growth, strengthen institutions, and improve the well-being of Gambians.
By Mahzouba Maya Faal
Communication Officer, MoFEA