Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe Hails Success of Landmark Mobility Event in Riyadh

The Lord Mayor of Banjul, Rohey Malick Lowe, has described the side event titled “SHE MOVES THE FUTURE OF AFRICA: Leading Inclusive Mobility Solutions from the Ground Up in African Cities” as a resounding success, celebrating it as a defining moment for Africa’s urban mobility agenda. The high-level gathering took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, bringing together influential African mayors, global partners, and mobility innovators.

Mayor Lowe said the powerful energy in the Assembly Room reflected a growing truth: Africa is no longer waiting for the future of urban mobility, it is actively building it. She noted that African cities are shaping solutions driven by innovation, resilience, and strong leadership at all levels.

The Mayor expressed deep appreciation to His Excellency Fahd Al Rasheed, whose presence and engagement she said underscored a shared commitment to reimagining cities worldwide. She also extended gratitude to the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the event organizers for offering a global platform where African voices and expertise could shine.

The event brought together leading city heads whose practical insights formed the backbone of the discussions. Mayor Lowe paid tribute to the panel of distinguished African mayors, including Hon. Yvonne Aki-Sawyer of Freetown, Hon. Adama Sarr of Keur Massar, Hon. Nasi Moya of Tshwane, Hon. Yvonne Eyidi of Nkongsamba, Hon. Johra Said of Nakuru, Hon. Josephine Solange of Nkolmettet, Hon. Dada Morero of Johannesburg, Hon. Ahmad Shafee Ismail of Marracuene, and Mayor Homotallar of Daglar.

“These leaders,” she said, “brilliantly illuminated each pillar of Africa’s evolving mobility ecosystem, proving that the solutions for the continent are being engineered by those who understand its pulse.”

The event also drew global figures, including former President of Costa Rica Carlos Alvarado and John Rossant, CEO and Founder of Co-Motion. Their participation, along with ministers, entrepreneurs, and African partners, helped anchor the discussions in actionable solutions rather than mere analysis.

Mayor Lowe commended the moderator, Mr. Basiru Jaye, for steering the discussions with professionalism, and applauded Dr. Juliet Sale, whom she described as the “architect” of the event’s design. She credited Dr. Sale for ensuring that African-centered solutions were communicated with clarity and conviction.

A key outcome of the session was the launch of a unified “Call to Action,” underscoring that investing in women-led mobility is not optional but essential for achieving equitable, sustainable, and prosperous African cities.

Mayor Lowe dedicated the event’s success to the people of Banjul, whose “strength and spirit,” she said, remain her constant inspiration. She hinted at an upcoming surprise for her constituents, urging them to “stay tuned.”

While celebrating the event as a milestone, she emphasized that the work is far from over.

“This is only the beginning,” she said. “The journey to reshape our cities, with women leading the charge toward inclusive mobility, continues with relentless momentum. Onward, together as always.”