Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Dr. Mamadou Tangara, The Gambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad, has resigned from his post to assume a high-profile role within the African Union.

Dr. Tangara has been appointed as the African Union Commission’s Special Representative of the Chairperson in Mali and the Sahel. He will also serve as the Head of the AU’s MISAHEL office based in Bamako, Mali, where he will lead efforts on peace, security, and regional cooperation in the volatile Sahel region.

Tangara tendered his resignation on Wednesday to President Adama Barrow, who accepted it and expressed gratitude for his “dedication, gratitude, and professional service rendered to the nation.” The president also wished him success in his new role.

Tangara, who served as The Gambia’s top diplomat since 2018, was one of the longest-serving ministers in President Barrow’s cabinet. His diplomatic career has included key roles at the United Nations and in other multilateral organizations.

His final assignment as foreign minister came during a recent state visit to Mauritania, where he accompanied Vice President Mohamed M. Bachir Sidi Jallow. During the visit, The Gambia and Mauritania signed 14 agreements covering areas such as foreign affairs, energy, fisheries, trade, defense, education, digital technologies, and social welfare.

Notably, the two countries signed an extradition treaty and a mutual legal assistance agreement in criminal matters.

Dr. Tangara’s departure marks a significant shift in the Barrow administration’s foreign policy team as the country continues to navigate complex regional dynamics.