Empowering women means empowering entire generations. When we support a woman to realize her strength, we change the course of families, communities, and nations. It is this commitment to lifting one another that creates true and lasting peace.
H.E. Dr. Fatoumattah Bah Barrow
THE FIRST LADY OF THE GAMBIA
Her Story
Her Excellency Dr. Fatoumattah Bah Barrow, First Lady of The Gambia, has dedicated her life to the advancement of health, peace, and women's rights across Africa. Born and raised in The Gambia, she pursued her studies in social sciences and public health, which laid the groundwork for her lifelong dedication to humanitarian causes. Known for her empathy and strong moral convictions, Dr. Barrow began her career working within community health programs, where she developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by Gambian communities, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Since assuming the role of First Lady, Dr. Barrow has used her expertise and influence to spearhead transformative initiatives in healthcare, education, and peace advocacy. Her work is particularly focused on empowering women and youth, as she believes they are central to building resilient and prosperous societies. Guided by her background in public health, she has prioritized initiatives aimed at improving maternal and child health and reducing barriers to education. Her vision is one of sustainable change driven by compassion, innovation, and a commitment to the well-being of the Gambian people.
Peace Ambassador of Women United Foundation
As Peace Ambassador for Women United Foundation and President of the First Ladies Peace Mission, H.E. Dr. Fatoumattah Bah Barrow champions peace and unity across Africa. Through her work with the Women United Foundation, she collaborates with global leaders to advocate for security, women’s rights, and social justice, establishing programs that encourage women and youth to actively engage in peacebuilding efforts. In her role with the First Ladies Peace Mission, she brings together Africa’s First Ladies in a united commitment to conflict resolution and social cohesion. Dr. Barrow’s leadership reflects her belief that sustainable peace is built on the strength and resilience of communities.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Fatoumattah Bah Barrow has received multiple honors for her impactful work and commitment to peace:
- Humanitarian Leadership Award – Celebrating her advocacy for public health, education, and the well-being of vulnerable populations.
- Champion of Peace Award – Recognizing her influential role in promoting peace and unity as part of her international work.
- Women’s Rights Advocate Award – Honoring her unwavering dedication to advancing women’s rights and empowerment throughout Africa.
Personal Life
Dr. Fatoumattah Bah Barrow is both a devoted wife and mother, sharing a strong partnership with President Adama Barrow in their dedication to the Gambian people. She balances her role as First Lady with her commitments to her family and her community. Known for her humility and kindness, she enjoys reading, spending quality time with her family, and engaging directly in community initiatives. Her personal life has fueled her mission to serve, as she firmly believes in the power of community and compassion as the foundation for a better world.
Initiatives and Involvement
As First Lady, Dr. Fatoumattah Bah Barrow spearheads numerous impactful initiatives:
- Peace Advocacy as President of the First Ladies Peace Mission: As the President of the First Ladies Peace Mission, Dr. Barrow collaborates with African First Ladies to foster peace and stability across the continent. This initiative focuses on conflict resolution, social inclusion, and the empowerment of youth as peace ambassadors.
- Women United Foundation Peace Ambassador: Dr. Barrow serves as the Peace Ambassador to Women United Foundation, where she works alongside global leaders to advocate for peace, security, and opportunities for women and children. In this role, she champions resources for education and economic empowerment to help women become pillars of peaceful communities.
- Health and Education Programs: Dr. Barrow’s foundation is dedicated to addressing healthcare challenges and educational disparities. She has launched campaigns focused on reducing maternal and infant mortality, supporting vaccinations, and enhancing access to quality education for children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Economic Empowerment of Women: Believing in the transformative power of women’s economic independence, Dr. Barrow oversees programs that provide vocational training, business development resources, and financial literacy courses. These initiatives support women in building stable, independent lives, contributing to their communities' socio-economic resilience.
faBB Foundation
The Fatoumattah Bah Barrow (FABB) Foundation, led by H.E. Dr. Fatoumattah Bah Barrow, is committed to enhancing healthcare, education, and social support across The Gambia. Focusing on maternal and child health, the foundation conducts vaccination drives and nutrition programs, while also providing scholarships and resources to increase educational access for children from underserved communities. Through vocational training and skill-building programs, the FABB Foundation promotes economic independence, particularly for women, to create lasting, community-driven change.
For more information, you can visit their official website.
