The long, eagerly awaited state opening of the National Assembly for the legislative year 2008 is now history. The marathon speech of the Chief Executive Officer of the Gambian constitution was pretty much enthralling in that, indeed, as expected, it touched on every sphere of Gambian life. The rather articulate nature of the postulates of his statement demonstrates how acquainted the leadership is with the needs of its citizens.

In a way, President Jammeh's presentation was also suggestive of a total endorsement of the role of two special groups of people - the women and the youth - in this country's development endeavors. We'd be right to say that this is a year dedicated to these two groups of people; that is, if the speech of His Excellency is anything to go by.  
 
Gambians and the rest of the world have constantly wondered about the relationship between President Jammeh and women. Presumably, it is now clear as to the reason behind this seeming eternal bond. Indeed, one can only stand by those that stand by you. The President himself said it, that he was a grateful man. In other words, he would not ignore those that stand for him in favor of those that make no effort in giving him the helping hand he is rightfully entitled to from every Gambian in the development of this country.  

It is no secret that the women folk dominate life in the Gambia today; be it in politics, agriculture, business, domestic work, and virtually everything. When HE call for assistance, they are always readily available. In effect, they appear to be more ready to stand for the country in its drive towards achieving its goals as enshrined in the United Nations millennium development goals and the Gambia's own vision 2020 blue print.
 
It is indeed gratifying that their man, the Gambian leader, has acknowledged their effort. We have the pleasure to add our voice in congratulating you, the women and youth of the Gambia. We do hope, however, that this trend of your admirable participation in your country's development will continue.