President Barrow
By Seedy Jobe
President Adama Barrow, on Friday, May 1, 2026, commended the Gambian workforce for its dedication and sacrifices, describing workers as central to the country’s development and future.
Speaking to reporters after joining May Day celebrations at McCarthy Square in Banjul, the president underscored the importance of unity among workers in advancing national progress.
“Workers are very, very important. They are the lifelines of the country. So it is very important for workers to come together, interact, and mingle to see how best we can move forward,” Barrow said.
Reflecting on his administration’s record since taking office in 2017, President Barrow highlighted what he described as significant improvements in workers’ remuneration, including salary and allowance increases.
“I think from 2017 to now, the workers have progressed a lot in terms of remuneration. Salaries have increased by 110%, and allowances as well,” he stated.
He cited specific examples, noting that transport allowances previously set at D500 have risen to between D1,500 and D2,500, while night allowances have increased from D650 to D1,500.
“Some who were paid D500 as transport allowance are now receiving D1,500 or D2,500. Even the night allowance, which was D650, is now D1,500. So definitely, within these years, we have progressed.”
The president also used the occasion to reaffirm his government’s commitment to strengthening institutions rather than concentrating power in individuals.
“We are also building institutions; we are not building strong men, we want strong institutions. In that regard, we have to collaborate, come together, and support the national development plan, he said.
He emphasized that the national development plan represents a shared agenda for all Gambians, not just the government.
“The national development plan is the agenda of the government; it is the agenda of The Gambia,” Barrow added.
Hundreds of workers from both the public and private sectors attended the annual International Workers’ Day celebrations at McCarthy Square, which featured marches and messages of solidarity.
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