The visit of Mr. Talib Bensouda - An invitation to partnership and innovation
Who is Mr. Talib Bensouda?
From October 28 to November 1, 2024, the CAPS welcomed its 2,284th guest under the Future Leaders Invitation Programme (PIPA): Mr. Talib Bensouda, Mayor of Kanifing in Gambia. This visit, between Paris and Bordeaux, aimed to give him insight into the functioning of French local governments and explore future collaborations. Here’s a look back at a week of discussions and discoveries.
His Background
Born in 1986, Talib Ahmed Bensouda is a prominent Gambian political leader known for his commitment to urban development. In 2018, at just 32, he became The Gambia’s youngest mayor after winning the Kanifing municipal elections, the largest city in the country. He was re-elected in 2023, further strengthening his influence. Forbes named him among Africa’s "Top 10 Trailblazers."
A Determined Reformer
From the start of his tenure, Mr. Bensouda launched key reforms, particularly in waste management, acquiring 24 specialized waste trucks and establishing new collection infrastructures. His flagship initiative, the Mbalit Project, increased waste collection from just 5% to over 80% of the city’s total. He also introduced major initiatives such as the construction of The Gambia’s first large public library and the implementation of a participatory budget.
A Leading Figure of the New Political Generation
As a key member of the United Democratic Party (UDP), Talib Bensouda represents a new wave of leadership in The Gambia. He has been involved in legal battles to defend municipal autonomy, and his potential candidacy for the 2026 presidential election is widely anticipated.
Mr. Bensouda’s Visit
Upon his arrival, Mr. Bensouda was welcomed at the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, where he met experts from the CAPS and the Directorate-General for Global Affairs. Their discussions focused on regional challenges in West Africa and opportunities for international cooperation.
The Mayor visited CITEO, a leading recycling company, before heading to the French Senate, where he met with Senator Marta de Cidrac. Their discussions highlighted the potential for Franco-Gambian cooperation between local governments.
In Paris, Mr. Bensouda examined waste management systems at the Paris Waste and Water Department before visiting SYCTOM, the agency responsible for urban waste treatment. In Bordeaux, he explored recycling facilities and met with Ms. Hélène Cure from Bordeaux Métropole, discussing potential collaboration on environmental transitions.
International Relations at the Heart of Discussions
A key meeting with Ms. Caroline Roussy, an expert on The Gambia at IRIS, provided insights into regional dynamics and reinforced the idea of a strategic partnership between France and The Gambia.
A Rich Cultural Immersion
His program also included visits to the Louvre Museum, Les Invalides, and the Quai Branly Museum, giving Mr. Bensouda a deeper appreciation of French heritage and culture.
What’s Next?
Ongoing discussions will help shape concrete collaborations from his visit. A follow-up meeting is scheduled to identify next steps, particularly in waste management and decentralization.
Mr. Bensouda left France with an enriched vision of local governance and valuable connections. He expressed keen interest in France’s management models and remains engaged with his new network.
Would you like to connect or collaborate with Mr. Bensouda? Feel free to reach out via our contact form.
Comments0
Please log in to see or add a comment
Suggested Articles
