ActionAid gets New Executive Director

Omar Badji New AAITG Executive Director

Omar Badji is the new Executive Director of ActionAid International The Gambia (AAITG). Badji, who until his appointment was Head of Programmes and Policy, took over the role in January 2014 and is based in Kanifing. He succeeds Dr. Kujejatou Manneh whose term ended in December 2013. AAITG is an Affiliate member of the ActionAid International Federation, a global movement of people working together to further human rights for all and defeat poverty.

In his new role, Omar Badji will lead the work of the Affiliate, coordinating its work and strengthening its partnerships to ensure greater positive impact of programme interventions on the lives and livelihoods of people living in poverty. He has worked for ActionAid for over 20 years and has served as interim Country Director for ActionAid Senegal (AAS), Guinea Bissau (AABG) and The Gambia.

WFP Executive Director Writes To Mansabanko

Ertharin Cousin
Executive Director
World Food Programme

Having served as the United States Ambassador to the UN Agencies for Food and Agriculture since 2009, I have watched WFP become an increasingly innovative agency. This has enabled us to not only reach more of the world’s hungry but also to cultivate an ever-growing community of supporters such as you dedicated to giving a hand up to families and communities who need us the most. The full text of the letters reads...






"Mamadou Edrisa Njie -- 

"It is a distinct honour to write to you for the first time as Executive Director of the World Food Programme. 

"I’m a firm believer that our past paves the way for our future. Growing up in Chicago, my family and I saw poverty and hunger in our own community. Despite this, my parents strongly believed that situations should not limit opportunities. Through their support and sacrifice, they made sure that my sisters and I were empowered through education.

"This is exactly what WFP is making possible for millions of families around the world through school meals programmes. What a privilege it is for me to now be at the helm of this outstanding organization -- the largest humanitarian organization in the world.