Gambian Mayor Praises Diri’s Commitment to Women Empowerment, Gender Equality
The Mayor of Banjul, capital of The Gambia, Hon. Rohey Malick Lowe, has commended the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, for his strong commitment to women empowerment, gender equality, and social justice.
Mayor Lowe gave the commendation on Friday during a courtesy visit to the Government House in Yenagoa, where she described Governor Diri as a champion of women and an advocate of inclusive governance.
She lauded the governor’s leadership style, noting that his administration has demonstrated a deliberate effort to create opportunities for women and promote their participation in governance.
“In Africa, we need leaders who believe in women and create space for them to thrive. Governor Diri is one of such leaders,” Lowe said.
Highlighting the importance of male allies in advancing women’s leadership, the Banjul mayor—who is the only female mayor in The Gambia and President of the African Mayors and Local Government Councillors Association—stressed that meaningful progress can only be achieved when leaders intentionally support women.
Reflecting on her own leadership journey, she pointed to the cultural barriers women often face, while expressing optimism that these challenges can be overcome with sustained support.
“If we have brothers and leaders who say they want women by their side, then we will continue to rise. African women are proud of you,” she added.
Lowe, who also serves as Second Vice President of the Global Parliament of Mayors and has been recognised by the United Nations for her advocacy work, formally invited Governor Diri to attend an upcoming women-focused programme in Banjul. The event will feature a book launch, a documentary, and a magazine showcasing African women leaders.
Responding, Governor Diri expressed appreciation for the visit and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to policies that promote women’s inclusion and empowerment.
“We believe in creating opportunities for women—not by lowering standards, but by ensuring they can compete and succeed. When women are empowered, the entire nation is empowered,” the governor said.
He also emphasised the need to dismantle barriers such as political violence and intimidation, which he noted often discourage women from active participation in politics.
Among those present at the meeting were the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr. Peter Akpe; member representing Yenagoa/Kolokuma/Opokuma Federal Constituency, Hon. Oforji Oboku; Deputy Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Michael Ogbere; and members representing Ekeremor Constituencies I and II, Tari Porri and Living Mitin.
Others included the Acting Chief of Staff, Government House, Irorodamie Komonibo; Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Moses Teibowei; and the Mayor of Yenagoa, Bulodisiye Ndiwari, alongside other government officials.
