A Landmark Recognition for Gambia Participates and Civic Accountability in The Gambia
Gambia Participates is honoured to mark a defining milestone in its institutional journey and in The Gambia’s broader accountability and governance landscape. Our Executive Director, Marr Nyang, has been awarded the prestigious Anti-Corruption Champions Award by the U.S. Department of State, a global distinction reserved for individuals who demonstrate exceptional courage, leadership, and impact in the fight against corruption.
This year’s recognition is particularly historic. Marr Nyang becomes the youngest-ever recipient of this distinguished award, underscoring both the significance of his leadership and the growing global recognition of civic action driven from The Gambia.
About the Anti-Corruption Champions Award
The Anti-Corruption Champions Award was established by the U.S. Department of State to honour reformers worldwide who work tirelessly, often in complex and challenging environments to promote transparency, defend democratic values, and protect public resources.
The award spotlights individuals whose efforts lead to systemic change, strengthen accountability mechanisms, and empower citizens to demand integrity from those in positions of authority. Recipients are selected based on the depth of their impact, their commitment to reform, and their ability to inspire change beyond borders.
Being named among this distinguished group places Marr Nyang alongside global leaders whose work continues to shape more just, transparent, and accountable societies.
A Recognition Rooted in Collective Purpose
While the award acknowledges Marr Nyang’s personal leadership and commitment, it is, at its core, a recognition of the mission, values, and collective efforts of Gambia Participates.
For more than a decade, Gambia Participates has remained at the forefront of advancing participatory governance, promoting transparency reforms, and equipping citizens, particularly young people with the tools and knowledge required to hold institutions accountable. Our work is anchored in the belief that meaningful accountability begins with informed, engaged, and empowered citizens.
Under Marr’s leadership, the organization has expanded its influence in fiscal transparency advocacy, exposed critical gaps in governance systems, and strengthened constructive engagement between civil society and public institutions. Yet this recognition reflects the collective dedication of our team, partners, volunteers, and community supporters whose sustained commitment continues to drive impact.
Elevating Local Accountability on the Global Stage
This award affirms the credibility and relevance of our work beyond national borders and reinforces the importance of our ongoing programmes, ranging from budget advocacy and anti-corruption awareness to civic education, community outreach, and innovative accountability initiatives.
At a time when corruption remains one of the most significant threats to democratic stability and sustainable development across Africa, this recognition draws renewed attention to the essential role of civic organizations in driving reform, strengthening institutions, and safeguarding public trust.
It also highlights the importance of collaboration. Progress in accountability is never achieved in isolation but through partnerships among civil society, government institutions, international allies, and the citizens we serve.
Looking Forward with Renewed Resolve
As we celebrate this important milestone, Gambia Participates reaffirms its unwavering commitment to building a future grounded in integrity, justice, and sustainable development. This recognition strengthens our resolve to continue innovating, educating, and advocating for a governance system where transparency is institutionalised and accountability is non-negotiable.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all who have supported our journey. Together, we will continue to advance citizen-led accountability and contribute to a more open, democratic, and equitable The Gambia.