State House, Banjul, 4th July 2025: Earlier today, His Excellency President Barrow received Dr. Sona Jobarteh and her team on a courtesy visit to the State House in Banjul.

The Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Honourable Abdoulie Jobe briefed the President on their engagement with Dr. Jobarteh, whom the Board of Directors of the Gambia Tourism Board has identified as the Brand Roaming Ambassador of Destination Gambia, to promote and market tourism in The Gambia.

Dr. Sona Jobarteh expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to promote The Gambia as a destination for tourists and investors. She also discussed The Gambia Academy, where she channels her success to train and build the capacities of young people for the next generation.

In his remarks, President Adama Barrow congratulated Sona Jobarteh on her official recognition as Brand Ambassador for Destination Gambia. He observed that there are challenges for Gambians to market the country effectively but highlighted that the peaceful nature of Gambians, beautiful beaches, and culture are selling points for Destination Gambia.

President Barrow further pointed out that in the 21st Century, The Gambia has to do things differently. He said, “I am pleasantly surprised to learn about your academy to bring diversity in skills development, which aligns with my government’s development agenda.”

He commended Gambians returning to invest in The Gambia, adding that with the right mindset, “every Gambian will take responsibility to give back to our country.”

Having watched a performance by the students from Sona’s Academy, President Barrow encouraged the students to be patient and serious with their education in preparing for their future.

Tourism sector in The Gambia has a huge economic potential as it contributes to approximately 20% of the Gambia’s GDP and 17.3% of employment rate in The Gambia.