On this Feast of the Assumption, I extend warm greetings and best wishes to the Catholic community of The Gambia, both at home and abroad.
For generations, faith has been an integral part of Gambian life. It has shaped how we raise our children, care for our neighbours, support those in need, and live together as a people. The Feast of the Assumption offers another opportunity to reflect on the enduring values of faith, compassion, service and love for one another.
To all our Catholic brothers and sisters, may this special day bring blessings, happiness and renewed faith to your homes, and strengthen the bonds of Christian fellowship within your churches and communities.
The Gambia may be a small country, but we have given the world a powerful example of peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians. In our towns and villages, mosques and churches stand side by side, while families and neighbours continue to share in one another’s joys and sorrows. It is a source of great pride that Gambian Muslims and Christians celebrate one another’s religious occasions from Koriteh and Tobaski to Christmas and other Christian celebrations.
This beautiful tradition of tolerance, respect and solidarity was nurtured by our parents and grandparents. It is now our responsibility to preserve it and pass it on to the generations that will follow us. Our diversity is not a weakness; it is one of the greatest strengths of our Gambian identity.
On this occasion, I ask all Gambians to pray for our beloved nation and for every family across The Gambia. May God bring comfort to those who are sick, relief to those facing hardship, hope to the disadvantaged, and strength to families going through difficult times. May He also guide all those entrusted with leadership and remind us all of the sacred responsibility that comes with serving the Gambian people.
On behalf of the United Democratic Party, I extend heartfelt greetings to the Catholic community in The Gambia and in the diaspora on the Feast of the Assumption.
May God continue to watch over The Gambia and her people, preserve our peace and unity, and keep us together as one nation, bound by mutual respect, dignity and love.
Happy Sang Marie!
A.N.M. Ousainu Darboe
Secretary General and Party Leader
United Democratic Party