Born in 1924 in a village called Barajally, Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara aged 95, on Tuesday Afternoon answered to the call of the almighty. Sir Dawda led The Gambia to Independence in 1965 and to becoming a Republic in 1970, serving as president from 1970 to 1994.

He led The Gambia through a smooth transition from colonial to self-rule. Throughout his life, he directed his efforts towards promoting peace and togetherness.

As the Nation mourns the death of former head of state Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara who is widely regarded as the father of the nation, The President of The Republic his excellency Adama Barrow, religious leaders, senior government officials, heads of political parties, members of the diplomatic corps, family members, loved ones and members of the public earlier today converge at his residence in Fajara to sympathize with the his Family.

The current president His excellency Adama Barrow visits the late presidents residence

President Adama Barrow led a cabinet delegation to the residence of the former president in Fajara, Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, to personally pay condolences to the Jawara family. The flags at the presidency are also lowered to half-mast, in respect to the elderly statesman.

“The public is herby informed that the state funeral for the former President, Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara is scheduled for Thursday, 29th August, 4: 00 pm, at the National Assembly,” an announcement from the presidency added. The president described the demise as a loss to the country and humanity in general.