By: Momodou S Gagigo
The National Livestock Owners Association (NaLOA) has re-elected Ebrima O. Jallow as its president, granting him a fresh five-year mandate to lead the organization at its just-concluded National Congress.
Delegates from across The Gambia gathered in Jinoi for the high-stakes assembly, which reviewed the association’s progress and elected a new executive committee. In a show of strong unity, members unanimously returned Jallow to the helm, citing the tangible growth, development, and advocacy achievements recorded under his leadership during the previous term.
Speaking moments after his re-election, a visibly elated Jallow thanked members for their continued trust. “I am honored by the confidence reposed in me once again,” he said. “This renewed mandate is not only a recognition of our past achievements but also a responsibility to build on the progress we have made.”
He outlined an ambitious agenda for the next five years, promising to strengthen the association, promote livestock development, tackle key challenges facing members, and deepen collaboration with government institutions and development partners. Jallow also called for greater unity among livestock owners nationwide to advance the sector and improve livelihoods.
Government officials and stakeholders warmly welcomed the re-election. Deputy Director General of Animal Production at the Department of Livestock Services, Emanuel William Mendy, noted that the new executive reflected broad continuity, with only minor changes attributed to age and one possible language barrier.
“I believe there are only one or two changes,” Mendy said, expressing confidence in sustained collaboration with the government.
Momodou Darboe, Director of the Gambia Livestock Marketing Agency, praised the decision to retain experienced leadership. “The indicators have shown that they have performed extremely well for the past decade,” Darboe stated. He urged the executive to begin planning for orderly succession while maintaining strong performance.
Alagie Yaya Jarjusey, Paramount Chief of The Gambia and National Adviser to NaLOA, lauded the organization’s unity. “NaLOA is a very powerful organization that deals with livestock owners and other small ruminant organizations,” Chief Jarjusey said.
He emphasized the association’s potential to support cattle owners, small ruminant farmers, and broader agricultural success.
Lower River Region Governor Seedy Lamin Bah assured continued government backing. “Our doors are always open for support, and we will continue to collaborate with them,” Bah said. “Livestock is critical to the government; this is why we don’t compromise with anything that has to do with it.”
The newly elected executive is expected to focus on enhancing livestock production, strengthening advocacy, expanding opportunities for members, and driving sustainable development in The Gambia’s vital livestock sector.
