Minister Ceesay Champions Digital Inclusion at IGF 2025 and Engages Diaspora in Oslo

Oslo, Norway – 25 June 2025

The Honourable Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services of The Gambia, delivered a compelling address at the 2025 Internet Governance Forum (IGF), convened by the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) in Oslo. The high-level roundtable, centered on the theme “Bridging the Digital Divide for Inclusive Growth under the Global Digital Compact (GDC),” brought together global leaders and digital policy experts to promote equitable Internet access and governance.

In his remarks, Dr. Ceesay underscored The Gambia’s proactive efforts in expanding digital connectivity, combating online misinformation, and fortifying electoral integrity in the digital age. He emphasized that narrowing the digital gap is essential for achieving inclusive economic growth and realizing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

Following the IGF session, Minister Ceesay, joined by National Assembly Member Hon. Alagie Mbow, met with members of the Gambian and broader African diaspora during a vibrant Town Hall event at Deichman Bjørvika Library on 24 June. The evening, attended by community leaders, business stakeholders, and friends of The Gambia, fostered meaningful dialogue on investment, diaspora engagement, and collaborative development.

Among those present were Ndey Jobarteh (Gambia House), Lamin Marong (Mamos Media), Sheriffo Kassama and Nyimanding Sanyang (Inter-African Committee in Norway), Nuha Manneh (Gambian Association in Norway), Tony Marong (Gambian Christian Association), Christine Mungai (Pan African Women’s Association), Hatem Ben Mansour (OMOD and PAiN), Johan Christian Tandberg (business investor), Prof. Dr. Josef Noll (Basic Internet), Amina Wirman (Rum & Ruf Children’s Home, Ghana), Inger Anne Olsen (former Aftenposten journalist), and event host Neneh Bojang.

The atmosphere was one of mutual respect, optimism, and renewed commitment to fostering sustainable ties between The Gambia and its diaspora communities. The visit highlighted the Gambia Government’s openness to collaboration and its vision of a digitally empowered and globally connected nation.