Date: 24th February 2025
Venue: Bertil Harding Highway
Honourable Cabinet Ministers, Honourable National Assembly Members, Members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, Chairman Star Group, Haji Baniko Sissoho Management, Staff, and Stakeholders of Star Radio and Television, Distinguished Guests, Members of the Media Fraternity, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is with great honour and immense pleasure that I am here with you to officially inaugurate and launch this splendid new Star FM and Television Building. The occasion features a remarkable achievement that signifies growth, progress, and invaluable investment in the Gambian media landscape.
The inauguration of this multi-million-Dalasi milestone project is not just about the unveiling of a new structure; it is visibly a loud structural affirmation of the ongoing transformation of The Gambia’s media sector.
It also reflects our shared commitment to freedom of expression, democracy, and national development, which my government will continue to cherish dearly and champion openly.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
Since 2017, my administration has prioritised the creation of an open and thriving media environment. The enactment of the Access to Information Act, under my leadership, clearly demonstrates our dedication to media freedom, transparency, and good governance.
A strong and independent media sector is an essential pillar of democracy, so we will continue to support initiatives that empower the press to operate freely, fairly, and beneficially.
The role of the media in nation-building cannot be overstated. Media outlets inform, educate, entertain, and have a huge and unique potential to unite a nation, while fostering accountability and civic participation.
As a private media institution, Star FM and TV, has significantly contributed to the Gambian media landscape by offering a platform for diverse voices, creating employment opportunities, and promoting national dialogue. Their commitment to journalistic excellence and public service is commendable. I urge you all to keep up the good work.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
This new building is not only a symbol of expansion, but also an inspiring indication of innovation and resilience in the face of an evolving media industry that had been suppressed for decades.
I encourage the Star FM and TV management and staff to continue striving for excellence, upholding ethical journalism, and embracing new technologies to reach wider audiences and offer continually improved services.
As a government, we remain steadfast in our commitment to peace, stability, and sustainable development. No one doubts that the media play a critical role in ensuring that information is disseminated accurately and responsibly, thus contributing to developing an enlightened and unified nation.
This makes it our collective responsibility to safeguard press freedom, while promoting responsible journalism that fosters cohesion and progress.
To maintain standards, we encourage the media to verify the information they disseminate and avoid sending out messages and wrong signals that cause or spread hate, trouble, or instability.
To conclude, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the management, staff, and stakeholders of Star FM and TV on their successes, hard work, and dedication, which led to this landmark development.
May this new building serve as a hub for excellence in broadcasting and a beacon of truth and professionalism in Gambian journalism.
With these remarks, I invite you all to join me to officially inaugurate and launch the new Star FM and Television Building. I pray that it stands tall for ages as a source of enlightenment, engagement, and empowerment for Gambians and non-Gambians alike.
Thank you for your attention.
