Belinda Bidwell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Nyimasata Sanneh-Bojang
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|---|---|
| Speaker of National Assembly | |
| In office March 2006 – January 2007 |
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| Preceded by | Sheriff Mustapha Dibba |
| Succeeded by | Fatoumata Jahumpa Ceesay |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 22 April 1936 |
| Died | 28 April 2007 |
| Nationality | The Gambia |
| Political party | Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction |
Belinda Bidwell (born April 22, 1936 – died April 28, 2007) was a very important person in The Gambia. She made history as the first woman to become the Speaker of the National Assembly. The National Assembly is like the country's parliament, where laws are made. The Speaker is the person who leads the meetings and makes sure everything runs smoothly.
Belinda Bidwell started her career as a teacher. Later, in 2002, she was chosen to be a member of the National Assembly. She then became the Deputy Speaker. In April 2006, after a political event in March, the previous Speaker, Sheriff Mustapha Dibba, left his position. Belinda Bidwell then stepped up to become the new Speaker. She passed away in April 2007 from a heart attack. She was survived by her husband, James Ndow, and their five children.
Early Life and Education
Belinda Bidwell was born on April 22, 1936. She was the second daughter of Gabriel and Julian Faal Faal Matilde. Her father and sister were also involved in politics, supporting the Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction party.
She went to Saint Joseph Convent for her primary school education. She then continued her studies at Gambia College. Later, she graduated from the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom.
After finishing her education, Belinda Bidwell became a teacher. She taught at St. Joseph Convent, St. Augustine Junior Secondary School, and Gambia College. She also earned several degrees in Mathematics and environmental protection. She studied at different universities around the world, including the University of Chicago in the US, the University of Reading in the UK, and universities in Australia, the Soviet Union (now Russia and other countries), and Germany.
Belinda Bidwell was married to James Ndow. Together, they had three sons and two daughters.
Political Journey
Belinda Bidwell's political career began in 2002. She was nominated to join the National Assembly by the Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction party. Soon after, she became the Deputy Speaker. This role meant she helped the main Speaker lead the National Assembly.
In April 2006, there was a change in leadership. The Speaker at the time, Sheriff Mustapha Dibba, left his position. Following this, Belinda Bidwell was chosen to become the Speaker. This was a very important moment, as she was the first woman to hold this high office in The Gambia.
Belinda Bidwell served as Speaker until February 2007. She was then replaced by Fatoumatta Jahumpa Ceesay. Sadly, Belinda Bidwell passed away in April 2007 due to a heart attack. Her legacy as a pioneering woman in Gambian politics continues to inspire many.
