State House, Banjul, 9th June 2026: President Adama Barrow on Tuesday met with the United Nations (UN) Country Team at State House, led by UN Resident Coordinator H.E. Karl Frederick Paul.

The meeting focused on the priorities of the National Development Plan (NDP) and how the UN can best align its support to accelerate delivery. Discussions explored strategies for coordinating transformative efforts and ensuring a coherent approach to the country’s diverse development challenges.

President Barrow shared the priorities of his government against the UN 2030 targets for sustainable development. He outlined climate change resilience and referenced the negative impact it could have on agriculture and food security. He also highlighted mitigating irregular migration, the impact of global economic crises worsened by the war in Iran, including policy shifts that affect global transportation networks and the food supply chain, driving up commodity prices. Advancing transitional justice processes was another key priority.

The President also appealed for UN support to the Civic Education programme as the country prepares for the 2026 presidential elections.
The UN team briefed the President on three flagship programmes being developed with ministries and local governments:

1. Climate resilience and food security — helping communities adapt to shocks and strengthen agricultural production.
2. Access to quality health services — with a particular focus on maternal and child health.
3. Quality education — moving beyond access to ensure improved learning outcomes for all children.

The team also presented the UN’s 2025 Annual Report, which details collective action and support provided toward the NDP’s key priorities.

UN representatives reaffirmed their commitment to continue supporting The Gambia. In response, President Barrow reiterated The Gambia’s continued support to the United Nations, and restated the government’s dedication to social cohesion and transitional justice.