In a rare political development, Kemo Fatty, a prominent conservationist and environmental advocate, has officially declared his intention to run for President of the Republic of The Gambia in the upcoming 2026 elections.
His announcement comes after years of dedication and service focused on addressing the nation’s pressing challenges and environmental issues.
Kemo Fatty, who grew up in Old Jeshwang, highlighted the influence of his father, a farmer and youth supervisor, and his mother, whose strength taught him the importance of safeguarding the community.
Fatty said these principles are at the core of his mission to protect both the Gambian people and the land. Fatty has spearheaded various initiatives to tackle some of the Gambia’s most pressing environmental issues.
His work with Green Up Gambia and as Head of Community Engagement for the Great Green Wall Frontline has involved efforts to restore degraded lands, promote sustainable practices, and empower local communities to thrive through resilience and self-determination.
Despite his accomplishments, Fatty expressed concern about the systemic challenges within the governance structure that continue to hinder progress in the country. His candidacy is positioned to respond to these obstacles, focusing on fostering a brighter future for all Gambians.
As the political landscape gears up for the 2026 election, Kemo Fatty’s announcement adds a new dynamic to the race. It reflects a growing interest in addressing environmental issues and governance reform in the Gambia.
Fatty Highlights Urgent Environmental Issues in Presidential Campaign Announcement
Fatty has underscored a range of critical environmental challenges facing the nation. Focusing on a Pan-African vision for climate action, Fatty expressed disappointment over the Ministry of Environment’s dismissal of his work on the subject, which he developed over four years. He noted that this decision was made without justification and accused the ministry of neglect regarding environmental issues.
Fatty pointed to the destruction of vital ecosystems in the Gambia, including Nyanaberi Forest Park, Tanbi Wetlands, Bijilo Ecotourism Park, and Abuko Nature Reserve. He criticized decisions that did not consider biodiversity or the well-being of local communities, often ignoring experts’ recommendations in the field.
Reflecting on the historical context, Fatty recalled warnings from past leaders, such as Sir Dawda Jawara, about the alarming decline of the country’s forests. He indicated that less than 40% of Gambian forest cover remains, with a significant portion degraded.
This degradation has led to increased pressures on local farmers and has turned once-thriving forests into hotspots for charcoal burning and illegal logging, thus undermining biodiversity and agricultural productivity.
Fatty argued that The Gambia’s challenges are not solely environmental but systemic. He criticized the current leadership for prioritizing political convenience over competence and creating a culture that tolerates corruption.
In his view, the Gambia requires a transformation in mindset rather than merely a change in leadership.
“I am running for president not because I seek power, but because I believe The Gambia needs more than a change in leadership; it needs a transformation in mindset,” Fatty stated. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing competence, accountability, and collective progress as essential elements for the nation’s future.
In his presidential campaign, Kemo Fatty emphasized the importance of collective action, stating that the Gambia’s future relies on its citizens’ unity and involvement.
He asserts that true leadership goes beyond making promises; ‘it involves inspiring action and standing firm for what is right, even in the face of personal sacrifice.’
Fatty hopes his candidacy will ignite a national youth movement focused on accountability, sustainability, and unity. He clarifies that his movement is not centered around him personally but rather on the shared responsibility of all Gambians to protect their resources and address the nation’s challenges.
He calls for immediate change and advocates for a Gambia that prioritizes its people, environment, and future. Fatty acknowledges the existence of a Green Party in the country and expresses his willingness to collaborate with any political party that aligns with his values.
He emphasizes the importance of electing a youth candidate, underscoring his belief that The Gambia is ready for its youngest head of state by 2026.
Fatty asserts that the youth movement he envisions is committed to becoming a permanent voice in shaping decisions that impact the future of The Gambia.
