Papyrus Global Awards: Gambian Council Chairman Receives Continental Recognition in Abuja
The Papyrus Global Mayors Conference and Awards has recognised Gambian local government leader Yankuba Darboe for his contributions to sustainable community development and local governance in Africa.
Darboe, Chairman of the Brikama Area Council in The Gambia, received the award titled “Champion for Sustainable Community Development and Local Governance in Africa 2026” during the Papyrus Global Magazine Mayors Awards ceremony held in Abuja, Nigeria.
The event, organised by The Papyrus Global, brought together local government leaders and other stakeholders to recognise leadership and discuss approaches to improving grassroots administration and community development.
According to a report by Gambian media organisation Kerr Fatou, Darboe was among seven recipients recognised at the ceremony. The awardees reportedly included three mayors from Namibia and one representative each from Zimbabwe, Nigeria and Uganda, alongside the Gambian council chairman.
Darboe dedicates award to constituents
Following the recognition, Darboe expressed appreciation for the honour, describing it as an important milestone. He dedicated the award to residents of the West Coast Region of The Gambia and acknowledged the contributions of council staff and elected officials.
He also highlighted the importance of collaboration among African local government leaders, noting that they face common challenges, including limited resources, insecurity and political and administrative constraints.
The recognition provided an opportunity to exchange experiences on grassroots governance and discuss how local authorities can pursue community development despite operational challenges.
Papyrus Global expands its continental reach
The awards form part of The Papyrus Global’s wider initiative to promote leadership engagement, recognise public service and encourage cooperation among local government institutions across Africa.
The organisation’s flagship conference, initially known as the Papyrus Global Local Government Chairmen/Mayors Conference and Awards (PAGLOGMA), was subsequently rebranded as the Papyrus Global Mayors Conference and Awards (PAGMACA) to reflect its international outlook.
The conference platform brings together local government leaders, policymakers, governance experts and development stakeholders to discuss grassroots administration, institutional strengthening, economic development and sustainable communities.
Through its awards and conference programmes, The Papyrus Global seeks to create opportunities for leaders to share experiences, recognise achievements and explore collaborative approaches to development.
The recognition of leaders from different African countries reflects the event’s focus on promoting dialogue across national boundaries and highlighting the role of local administrations in addressing community needs.
As grassroots governance remains central to service delivery and community development, platforms such as the Papyrus Global Mayors Conference and Awards provide opportunities to discuss leadership practices, exchange ideas and strengthen cooperation among local authorities across the continent.
