By Alieu Ceesay
Rotary Clubs across The Gambia celebrated a pivotal moment in their annual calendar on Saturday, July 19, 2025, as outgoing executives handed over leadership to a new cohort of presidents and officers. The vibrant ceremony, held in Senegambia, marked the start of the 2025-2026 Rotary term, running from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, under the global theme “Unite for Good.” The event highlighted the clubs’ unwavering commitment to community development, education, health, and fostering principled leadership.
Rotary Clubs in The Gambia have long been a cornerstone of societal progress, complementing government efforts in critical areas. From bolstering education to improving healthcare access and promoting community development, their initiatives have left a lasting impact on Gambian society. This year’s handover was particularly significant, as it was the first time in six years that Rotaractors—young professionals within the Rotary family—came together to celebrate the chain-of-office handover for the General Office jointly. This milestone underscored a renewed spirit of unity and collaboration among the nation’s Rotary community.
The event was a testament to Rotary’s enduring mission to inspire service and leadership. In recent years, the clubs have prioritized exposing children to robust science education, fostering curiosity, and equipping the next generation for innovation. These efforts align with Rotary’s broader goal of creating sustainable, impactful change in communities across The Gambia.
Outgoing Immediate Past President (IPP) Rohie Njie Kargbo of the Rotary Club of Banjul, representing the outgoing leadership, delivered a heartfelt address. “We are confident that each of you will lead your respective clubs to higher heights,” Kargbo said. “With the wealth of experience in Rotary over the years, your passion and dedication to the ideals of Rotary, guided by the four-way test, will drive meaningful progress.” The four-way test, a cornerstone of Rotary’s ethical framework, emphasizes truth, fairness, goodwill, and benefit to all.
Incoming presidents expressed gratitude and outlined bold visions for the year ahead. Herbert Charles Mbye, new president of the Rotary Club of Kotu, emphasized his commitment to service. “We sincerely thank our Rotary Club in The Gambia for placing their trust in us and giving us this opportunity to serve as presidents,” Mbye said in his acceptance speech. “We pledge to lead by example and to inspire everyone to participate in meaningful and impactful service projects.” His words reflected a dedication to mobilizing members for transformative community initiatives.
Similarly, Adama Bojang, president of the Rotary Club of Fajara, shared an ambitious vision centered on empowering Rotaractors. “I would like to work alongside each of you, the Rotaractors, to make a positive impact in our communities,” Bojang declared. “My mission this year is to champion a vibrant and empowered Rotaractor community, whereby leadership is nurtured, innovation is encouraged, and every club in The Gambia feels supported to dream big and do more.” Bojang’s focus on youth empowerment and innovation signals a dynamic year ahead for Rotary’s younger members.
The theme “Unite for Good” resonated throughout the ceremony, encapsulating Rotary’s belief in the power of collective action. Globally, Rotary operates on a one-year leadership term, ensuring fresh perspectives and renewed energy drive its initiatives. In The Gambia, this transition reaffirms the organization’s role as a catalyst for positive change, from grassroots projects to national development efforts.
As the new leadership steps into their roles, Rotary Clubs in The Gambia are poised to build on their legacy of service. Their focus on education, health, and leadership development aligns with the nation’s broader goals of sustainable growth and social progress. By nurturing young leaders and fostering community-driven solutions, Rotary continues to strengthen the fabric of Gambian society.
The handover ceremony concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism. Attendees, including Rotarians, Rotaractors, and community members, celebrated the shared commitment to service above self. As the 2025-2026 term begins, Rotary Clubs in The Gambia stand ready to inspire a new generation of leaders and deliver impactful projects that uplift communities nationwide.
With their eyes set on innovation, unity, and service, the new executives are well-positioned to lead The Gambia’s Rotary Clubs to new heights, continuing their legacy of transforming lives and fostering hope for a brighter future.
