In a historic breakthrough for the Gambian judiciary, three female judges have been nominated for a seat on the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, with credible judicial sources indicating that Justice Awa Bah has emerged as the successful candidate and is expected to be formally appointed as the first Gambian to serve on the regional court.
The development was announced during the ECOWAS Court of Justice’s sensitization mission in Banjul this week. Court President Justice Ricardo Cláudio Montero Gonçalves highlighted the milestone, noting Gambia’s active participation in strengthening regional justice mechanisms. Chief Justice Hassan Jallow described the moment as “a very happy occasion,” confirming that one Gambian judge will soon take up the position.
All-Female Gambian Trio in the Race
The three applicants, all distinguished female judges, are: Justice Awa Bah, widely tipped as the frontrunner. A Supreme Court judge since 2020 and former President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Bah has played a pivotal role in judicial training and reform. Her selection would mark her as the pioneer Gambian on the ECOWAS bench.
Justice Kumba Sillah-Camara: A respected High Court judge known for handling major human rights and transitional justice cases, including the landmark NIA9 trial.
Justice Zainab Jawara Alami: An experienced commercial and ADR judge who later served on the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court. She has been a strong advocate for women in the judiciary.
All three applied for the position, reflecting the high caliber of female legal talent in The Gambia.
ECOWAS Judges Appointment Process
Under the ECOWAS Revised Treaty and Court Protocol, each member state nominates qualified candidates — typically senior judges or legal experts with expertise in international law and human rights. The Authority of Heads of State and Government makes the final appointment from the nominations. Judges serve a single four-year term, and no two judges from the same country can serve simultaneously. This ensures equitable representation across the 15-member regional bloc.
The impending appointment of a Gambian judge is seen as a major boost for the country’s profile in ECOWAS. It will strengthen access to regional justice, particularly in human rights matters where individuals have direct access to the Court.
The ECOWAS delegation continues its engagements with Gambian stakeholders to raise awareness about the Court’s role and jurisdiction.
