Pa Modou Cham

Story: President Adama Barrow’s nationwide “Meet the People Tour,” held from November 18 to December 9, 2024, offered a rare opportunity to capture the voice of ordinary Gambians in direct dialogue with their president. Over 19 public meetings and 26 project visits, the story documented Barrow’s interactions with farmers, livestock owners, community leaders, and residents across the country. It highlighted pressing national concerns, from deteriorating roads in Niamina to environmental degradation, while also showcasing government pledges on food security, rural infrastructure, and security sector reform. The merit of the story lies in its depth of coverage and public interest value. It went beyond reporting presidential promises by reflecting the expectations and frustrations of communities often left at the margins of policymaking. By framing Barrow not just as a political figure but as a “listening leader,” the report underscored the accountability role of journalism in bridging citizens’ concerns with national governance. It demonstrated how field-based reporting can illuminate the realities of rural communities, contextualize government policies, and amplify grassroots voices in shaping the country’s development agenda

Published in: October 24, 2025