Yahya Al-Matarr Jobe: A Visionary for African Well-being in the Age of Globalization

Introduction:
In a rapidly changing global context, Yahya Al-Matarr Jobe, former Deputy Permanent Delegate of The Gambia to UNESCO and a staunch advocate for African cultural values, shares his enlightened perspectives on well-being. His longstanding commitment to integrating cultural and spiritual dimensions into public policies highlights an alternative view of health—one where the balance between mind, body, and community is paramount. In this exclusive interview, he invites us to rethink well-being beyond conventional norms and to recognize the strength of African traditions in an ever-evolving world.

1. As the former Deputy Permanent Delegate of The Gambia to UNESCO, how do you currently perceive the concept of well-being from cultural, educational, and societal perspectives?

Well-being is a holistic concept that encompasses not only physical health but also mental, spiritual, cultural identity, education, and a sense of belonging.

My experience at UNESCO taught me that well-being must be rooted in spiritual and cultural education. In societies like The Gambia, where community, religion, and tradition play central roles, it's important to promote policies that affirm cultural knowledge and awareness, invest in education, and foster social cohesion. These are essential foundations for sustainable well-being.

2. The world is currently undergoing profound upheavals—environmental, economic, and identity-related. In your view, what levers can countries like The Gambia activate to strengthen the resilience of their populations, particularly the youth?

Investing in technical and vocational education as well as entrepreneurship is essential. As a former coordinator of UNESCO-ASPnet and youth-focused cultural exchange programs, I believe that equipping young people with 21st-century professional skills while grounding them in their cultural roots can make them both globally competitive and locally relevant. Resilience also stems from governance that enables youth to participate in shaping their future.

3. Despite its small size, The Gambia possesses a rich intellectual and cultural fabric. How could this be better reflected in public policies related to health, education, and social inclusion?

Having worked in various national commissions on science, education, sports, and culture, I have advocated and continue to advocate for the integration of traditional knowledge and values into public policies, as well as for the incorporation of dynamic cultural practices and community health traditions into national strategies. This fosters ownership, trust, and relevance in development programs.

4. You have worked in Europe while representing the voice of The Gambia and Africa. What is your vision of the evolving relationship between African diasporas and their countries of origin? Have they become more strategic?

The engagement of the African diaspora has evolved from remittances to strategic collaboration. During my tenure in Paris, representing The Gambia at UNESCO, I observed how diasporas increasingly serve as intellectual and cultural bridges. They bring innovation, advocacy, and investment to their home countries. For example, the Migration and Sustainable Development in The Gambia (MSDG) project, launched in 2017, has strengthened the roles of the Gambian diaspora in national development. Key achievements include the development of the Gambian Diaspora Strategy, integrated into the new Recovery-Focused National Development Plan (RF-NDP 2023–2027). MSDG's efforts also accelerated the establishment of the Diaspora and Migration Directorate within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It's time to develop more structured platforms to harness their talents and networks.

5. Well-being extends far beyond physical health. How can mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects be integrated into African policy frameworks, especially when many traditional cultures already uphold them?

Africa already holds the blueprint—our traditional systems value the balance between mind, body, and soul. The challenge lies in integrating these values into formal health and education policies. Through my work on indigenous languages and traditional games and sports at UNESCO, I've learned that policies must respect and formalize the roles of traditional healers, cultural rites, and community support systems.

6. Today, young Gambians face multiple challenges: migration, unemployment, and loss of identity. What advice would you offer them to help build a sustainable and hopeful future?

Have faith, know your roots, develop your skills—especially technical, innovative, and industrial ones—start early with technical, vocational, and entrepreneurial training to meet labor needs, and believe in your potential. As someone who began as a teacher in rural Gambia and progressed to global diplomacy, I can attest that humility, discipline, and a commitment to learning can transform lives. I advise young Gambians to embrace both traditional indigenous and innovative knowledge and to view challenges as opportunities for reinvention.

7. The Gambia is often associated with its political past or tourism. What lesser-known aspects of the country would you like to highlight to the world?

We have stories beyond rivers and beaches. The Gambia is a hub of indigenous knowledge and technologies, ecological diversity, and cultural resilience. Few people know about our biosphere reserves, vibrant oral histories, or the incredible role of traditional sports and games in community cohesion. These are areas I've personally championed both nationally and internationally. The youth have immense potential and would surely succeed if provided with the necessary opportunities and infrastructure.

8. In your opinion, how could the "Africa Perspectives: Health and Well-being" event become a transformative platform connecting diasporas and African policymakers?

By creating a space for shared narratives, policy dialogues, and cross-sector partnerships. Having served as a bridge between UNESCO and African institutions, I see great value in platforms that unite culture, indigenous technologies, research, and policies. This event could amplify diaspora voices, showcase best practices, and catalyze collaborative solutions for Africa's well-being agenda.

9. What personal practice (ritual, book, habit) helps you maintain your own well-being daily?

Daily reflection and community engagement. I stay grounded by connecting to my heritage—through language, culture, and nature. Additionally, I draw inspiration from spiritual and philosophical readings and maintain a disciplined routine based on mindfulness and service.

10. Finally, if you had a message for the Gambian diaspora worldwide, what would it be?

Stay connected, stay engaged. You are not just ambassadors of The Gambia—you are also co-authors of its future and our potential partners in socio-economic development. Let your experiences fuel positive change at home. Return not only with money but with constructive ideas, good values, and a strong sense of purpose. The Gambia needs your vision and meaningful contributions now more than ever.

Thank you for your continued trust and collegiality. Please accept the expression of my sincere gratitude.

Yahya Al-Matarr Jobe
(The Gambia)