Pacesetters often do not wait for others. In fact, they always tend to display manifestations of Samaritanism.

In essence, the idea is to do it and let others follow the trend. By and large, this description accurately suits The Gambia as a nation.  It is manifested at all levels, and more so at the upper levels of the country’s leadership hierarchy.

Last weekend’s magnanimous gesture by President Yahya Jammeh clearly demonstrates this assertion.  It even goes beyond that, as it also illustrates our level of maturity within this giant community of a region endowed with abundant wealth.

President Jammeh’s donation of four and a half million Dalasis, plus a vehicle, to the West African Insurance Institute (WAII), will go a long way in minimizing whatever constraints the authorities of the institute might have been facing. WAII is one of the foremost symbols of the much fancied regional integration process. And as such, spending on it means spending on the ongoing efforts of integration. This portrays The Gambia’s  stance in promoting regional cooperation.

Having been relocated to The Gambia in the early 90s, as a result of unrest in its former host country, Liberia, the institute has evidently found a peaceful and conducive environment. For The Gambia, the decision of hosting such a well meaning institution is a humbling challenge; a challenge we are set to meet for the benefit of the entire West African community.

Being a host is quite an uphill task. There are times when you are caught between principle and reality, when only true judgement will be the way out. In such a situation one would need only God’s salvation for a prudent direction. But by all indications, small Gambia has been serving its role well.

Take, for instance, the provision of a conducive environment for the institute’s operational needs. By ploughing in that solid amount of money, through its leadership, the country has demonstrated once again that it is ever ready to fulfill its commitment, and at all times.