The Mayor of Banjul, capital city of The Gambia, Rohey Malick Lowe, has commended the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri’s strong commitment to women empowerment, gender equality, and social justice.
Speaking during a visit to Government House, Yenagoa, on Friday, Mayor Lowe described Governor Diri as a “champion of women, inclusive leadership style and an advocate for greater female participation in governance.”
Lowe, who is the only female mayor in The Gambia and President of the African Mayors and Local Government Councillors Association, said what she had observed the Bayelsa doing is to elevate women and empower them.
“In Africa, we need leaders who believe in women and create space for them to thrive. Governor Diri is one of such leaders,” she said, stressing the importance of male allies in advancing women’s leadership across the continent.
She noted her own journey in leadership and the cultural barriers women face, adding that progress was possible when leaders intentionally support women.
“If we have brothers and leaders who say I want women by my side, then we will continue to rise. African women are proud of you.”
Lowe, who is also Second Vice President of the Global Parliament of Mayors and recognised by the United Nations for her advocacy work, formally presented an invitation to Governor Diri to attend an upcoming women-focused programme in Banjul, which will feature a book launch, documentary and magazine highlighting African women leaders.
In his response, the Bayelsa governor thanked Lowe for the visit and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering women.
He said: “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.”
Diri emphasised the need to eliminate barriers such as political violence and intimidation, which often discourage women from participating in politics.
Present during the visit were the deputy governor, Dr Peter Akpe, member representing Yenagoa/Kolokuma/Opokuma federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Oforji Oboku, Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Michael Ogbere as well as members representing Ekeremor constituencies 1 and 2, Tari Porri and Living Mitin respectively.
Others were the acting Chief of Staff, Government House, Irorodamie Komonibo, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Moses Teibowei, and the Mayor of Yenagoa, Bulodisiye Ndiwari, among other government officials.
