High Commissioner, Dr Fatou Bensouda, Elected Chair of Prestigious International Council

Gambia’s High Commissioner, Dr Fatou Bensouda, Elected Chair of Prestigious International Council London, 24 July 2025 — In a moment of national pride and international recognition, Her Excellency Dr Fatou Bensouda, The Gambia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, has been elected Chair of the Executive Council of the Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI). Dr Bensouda’s appointment marks yet another milestone in her illustrious career as a global stateswoman and champion of justice, diplomacy, and sustainable development. CABI, an inter-governmental, not-for-profit organization, works at the forefront of scientific and agricultural advancement to improve livelihoods and protect the environment across the world. The election of Dr Bensouda as Chair of CABI’s Executive Council underscores both her leadership credentials and The Gambia’s growing voice in global affairs. With 50 member countries, CABI plays a pivotal role in building resilience among farming communities, enhancing food security, and promoting environmental sustainability. Best known for her tenure as Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (2012–2021), Dr Bensouda made history as the first woman to hold that esteemed position. Her career has spanned decades of legal excellence and public service, including prior roles as Attorney General and Minister of Justice of The Gambia. In her current diplomatic role, she represents The Gambia with distinction in the United Kingdom and several other countries within the Commonwealth. Her election to lead the Executive Council of CABI comes at a critical time when the world is seeking inclusive and science-based solutions to the challenges facing agriculture, climate, and food systems. In welcoming her appointment, CABI also extended its heartfelt appreciation to the outgoing Chair, His Excellency Dhanpaul Narine of Trinidad and Tobago, for his exemplary leadership over the past two years. Mr Narine recently assumed his new role as Minister of Finance in the Government of Trinidad and Tobago. The Council session also welcomed two new Observers to CABI’s Board: Mr Dmitry Robertson, Counsellor for Political and Economic Affairs at the Jamaican High Commission Dr Sadik Kassim, Deputy Director General for Agricultural Technology Promotion at Uganda’s National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) The meeting concluded with the approval of CABI’s 2025 operational budget and the financial roadmap for 2026–2027. Dr Bensouda’s appointment brings honor not only to The Gambia but to the broader African continent, as she continues to break barriers and contribute to shaping a more sustainable and equitable global future. Issued by: The Gambia High Commission, London 24 July 2025