The Gambia Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has joined the Embassy of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta in Banjul to celebrate the feast of Blessed Gerardo, founder of the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Rhodes, and Malta.
The celebration was organized by His Excellency, Ambassador Domenico Giani, at a reception held on Friday, October 31, 2025, at the African Princes Hotel.
The colourful occasion was graced by government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and friends.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Domenico Giani noted that the Diplomatic relations between the Republic of The Gambia and the Sovereign Order of Malta have already marked the beginning of a season of collaboration and friendship, strengthened by the presentation of credentials by the Gambian Ambassador to the Order, H.E. Fatou Bom Bensouda.
Founded almost a thousand years ago in Jerusalem to serve pilgrims and care for the sick, he said the Order of Malta continues that mission today through more than 13,500 members and 100,000 volunteers active in over 120 countries.
“Our motto, Tuitio Fidei et Obsequium Pauperum, to defend the faith and serve the poor, remains the compass that guides all our actions,” he said.
He revealed that the Order is not only a Catholic institution, but also a recognized and respected subject of international law that engages in dialogue.
The Embassy in Banjul, he said, aims to be a bridge of health and social cooperation, making available the Order’s long-standing experience in public health, emergency medicine, nursing education, and maternal and childcare.
Sering Modou Njie, Minister of Foreign Affairs, revealed that Saint Geraldo Majella’s life stands as a shining beacon of humility, devotion, and love for others.
He noted that though he lived in the 18th century, his example remains timeless as he devoted his short life to helping the poor, comforting the sick, and defending the dignity of life in all its forms.
He said that the establishment of the Embassy of the Sovereign Order of Malta in Banjul marks a significant milestone in the growing friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
