By: Foday Manneh
The Secretary-General and party leader of the People’s Democratic Organisation for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS), Hon. Halifa Sallah has been awarded the inaugural national peace award of The Gambia.
The former National Assembly member was conferred with the award during the Peace Network’s Seminar on Friday, February 24, 2023, as part of the 58th Independence celebration.
The organization initiated the new award to promote peace, security, and unity in The Gambia. The award seeks to recognize individuals who have distinguished themselves in promoting and championing peacebuilding or peacemaking in The Gambia.
“The Peace Network brings this award also to promote competition in the country’s peacebuilding area. We believe that it is the business of everyone to campaign for sustainable peace and security,” said the Chief Executive Office of the Network, Alasana Jallow.
Halifa was voted the first-ever award winner as a recognition of his role during the 2016 political impasse — using appropriate measures with care and patience to manage the tense political situation at the time.
Receiving the award on behalf of Hon. Sallah, Hon. Fatou Sowe thanked Peace Network for dedicating and recognizing the work of the honorary statesman.
The Peace Network is incorporated in the Gambia as a non-profit organization focusing on mediation, research, peace and security, and education.
The network is formed by experts in various professions, such as scholars, administrators, diplomats, retired security personnel, and renowned national and international peace advocates.
