Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – President Adama Barrow has announced significant changes within his cabinet and the senior public service, appointing Honourable Mod K. Ceesay as the new Minister for Trade, Regional Integration, and Employment, effective 2 December 2025.

According to a statement from the Office of the President, only seen today, the appointment was made pursuant to Section 71(1) of the Constitution.

Mod K. Ceesay Takes Over Trade Ministry

Hon. Mod K. Ceesay, a seasoned public servant, previously served as the first holder of the Chief of Staff portfolio in 2021, a position later upgraded to ministerial rank in 2024.

Hon. Mod K. Ceesay replaces Hon. Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, who was appointed Minister of Defence by President Adama Barrow, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, on 10 September 2025.

Modou Ceesay, the former Auditor General who was initially designated to take up the position of Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, declined the offer. His refusal subsequently led to his dismissal from the National Audit Office, prompting him to file a lawsuit before the Supreme Court, seeking redress for what he considers an illegal termination.

He has held multiple senior roles across government, including Permanent Secretary in various ministries, among them the Ministry of Trade.

Ceesay also brings extensive international experience, having worked with the West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management (WAIFEM) and engaged in consultancy assignments with international partners in The Gambia and abroad.

Alieu Loum Promoted to Chief of Staff

In a separate development, Deputy Chief of Staff Alieu Loum has been promoted to Chief of Staff at the Office of the President.

Loum previously served as Director of Delivery under the former Department of Strategic Policy and Delivery (DSPD), later becoming Permanent Secretary for Delivery at the Ministry of Public Service before assuming the deputy role at State House.

Momodou K. Dibba Named Deputy Chief of Staff

The President has also appointed Momodou K. Dibba as Deputy Chief of Staff. Dibba, an economist and former Executive Director of the National Social Protection Agency, previously served as Director at the DSPD and has held several portfolios within the civil service.

The appointments take immediate effect, the statement said.