SP/FS Bonus: The Art of Diplomacy

In this short companion piece to Ambassador Pamela White's regular SP/FS episode, she discusses the art of diplomacy, using her time with The Gambia's fascinating but deeply flawed former President Yahya Jammeh.

Pamela White served as the U.S. Ambassador to The Gambia from 2010 to 2012; her focus was on strengthening governance, health, and development partnerships.

Yahya Jammeh ruled The Gambia from 1994, when he seized power in a coup, until 2017, maintaining control through repression, human rights abuses, and a cult of personality. Jammeh infamously claimed he could cure AIDS and other illnesses with herbal remedies and prayers, a falsehood that endangered patients and drew widespread condemnation. After losing the 2016 election to Adama Barrow, Jammeh initially refused to step down but was forced into exile in Equatorial Guinea under regional and international pressure.

Ambassador White meeting with President Jammeh

Former President Yahya Jammeh of The Gambia

Then Captain Jammeh on a Gamian postage stamp

Show Credits:

SP/FS Producer & Host: Christopher Wurst

Opening Voices: Dmitri Wurst, Elena Wurst, Kjara Wurst, Christopher Wurst

Show Artwork: Kate Furby

Voice of Dubious Aunt Deb: Cathy Zielske

Cold Open Music: BWM – The Brina Band

Dubious Ant Deb Music: Cass County Beauty Queen – Alan Singley

Episode Music:

Music – Youssoupha Sidibe

Interview date: March 13, 2025