H.E. Violeta Insa Enai, who heads the Spanish Diplomatic Mission in The Gambia, popped by H.E. A.N.M. Ousainu Darboe’s office on April 2, 2024.

Joined by Lamin Manneh, Deputy Secretary for External Affairs and the Diaspora of the UDP, H.E. Darboe warmly welcomed the Spanish envoy. They dove into various topics like European Union visa restrictions, the vibrant Gambian Diaspora in Spain, and ways to empower women, among other things.

Discussing visa restrictions, H.E. Insa Enai hinted at potential easing by the EU, a move H.E. Darboe applauded. They also brainstormed ideas to better integrate Gambian expats in Spain, including seasonal-worker visas for Gambians during high-demand months like summer. These workers could even receive training in fields like agriculture and IT to boost their skills and possibly return home to kickstart their own ventures. H.E. Darboe pledged UDP support for their reintegration and securing government contracts.

H.E. Insa Enai also pledged her Mission’s support to local NGOs, especially those led by women, with H.E. Darboe promising to help her identify similar organizations.

On the Draft Constitution, H.E. Insa Enai expressed hope for its tabling and referendum before year-end, a sentiment shared by H.E. Darboe, who highlighted its merits. He emphasized the need for bipartisan support during the referendum campaign.