Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL) – Kairaba Conservation and Leadership Organization (KAIRACLO) is hosting a Tree Planting Ceremony today as part of its Centenary Celebration program honoring the 100th Birthday of the Late Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara.

The tree planting event is scheduled to commence at the National Assembly ground at 11:30 AM and later at the Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo at 5:30 PM.

The commemorative planting, in honor of the 100th Birthday of Late Sir Dawda, will feature a panel of speakers from various backgrounds coming together at the OIC conference Centre in the evening to reflect on the life and times of Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara.

“The Round Table Discussion will celebrate the achievements of Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, the esteemed first President of the Republic, author of the Banjul Declaration 1977, Conservationist, and posthumous recipient of the ECOCWAS Leadership Award 2022,” the organization mentioned in a press statement shared with this medium.

Sir Dawda dedicated his life to serving The Gambia, guided by the philosophy of ‘Tesito,’ which translates to belt tightening/austerity or, in the context of nation-building, self-reliance. Before entering politics, Sir Dawda was a trained Veterinary Surgeon and became a prominent advocate for environmental conservation in post-colonial Africa.

The Banjul Declaration 1977, authored by Sir Dawda, remains a seminal national document outlining a roadmap to sustainable development. His call to action for environmental protection in the declaration is more urgent than ever in today’s age of multiple crises.

One observer described Sir Dawda as follows: “His voice was captivating, his words were measured, inspiring, and well-crafted. His demeanor was inviting and set people at ease. His trademark smile was infectious, even putting his political opponents at ease.”

The panel discussion will delve into Sir Dawda’s ideas about Good Governance, his influence on moral leadership, his contributions to championing Human Rights and the rule of Law, and his engagement within the ECOWAS subregion, Africa, and the global stage. The panel will include experts and family members of the late Sir Dawda who will lead this discussion.