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SENEGAL SHOW SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE TO MAINTAIN DOMINANCE OVER THE GAMBIA

Playing in front of home supporters, Senegal once again proved that they are unmatched against the Scorpions of The Gambia as they showed a superior performance to defeat the visitors 3-1 at Stade Abdoulaye Wadé in Diamniadio. Just as expected, the host first took the lead in the first half stoppages after the Scorpions initially appeared defiant. It was the unlikeliest of scorers, centre-back Abdoulaye Seck, Senegal's captain for the night, who glanced home a free header after a corner from El-Hadji Malick Diouf. Within a moment of his introduction after the break, the PSG starlet Ibrahim Mbaye doubled Senegal's lead after a clever pass from Ismaila Sarr in the 47th minute. At that moment, it looked more like a desperate moment for the Scorpions, but veteran captain Omar Colley restored a bit of confidence as he nodded home a Yankuba Minteh's corner from a tight angle to make it 2-1. But when coach Pape Thiaw reverted to his bench, that certainly means an increase in Senegal's hunger for victory and substitute Lamine Camara sealed a deserved 3-1 win for the holders of the AFCON crown.This might be a game against a side [The Gambia] ranked 116 as opposed to Senegal who are ranked 12, but Senegal perhaps knew that given the proximity, the Scorpions would give their best in the clash to try to put their dominance to an end, maybe the more reason they opted to play against the Scorpions. It could also be looked at as a way of presenting their AFCON trophy to their neighbours, The Gambia, a way of strengthening the relationship between the two countries. Either way, the bigger focus was on the 90 minutes for the night. Stade Abdoulaye Wadé wasn't full, but Senegal has a greater number of supporters on the stands, and a decent number of Scorpions supporters took the six-hour journey to cheer their players too. Despite the rift between them and the Confederation of African Football, who now declared Morocco as winners of the AFCON on "disciplinary" grounds after Senegal protested against a penalty decision in the final and left the pitch before coming back to continue playing and ended up winning 1-0 against Morocco. Nicholas Jackson started his football in the Gambian First Division League before moving to Senegal Senegal who took the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sports to maintain their status as champions, paraded their AFCON trophy before the Senegalese and Gambian supporters inside the stadium. As a way of showing respect for that achievement, the visiting supporters cheered them as they walked around with what will be their second AFCON title provided that their appeal is successful. And when the 33-year-old Mauritanian referee Abdul Aziz Bouh blew for the kick-off, the host quickly got out of the block and tried to press with high intensity. In the process, both Assan Diao and Abdoulaye Seck had their efforts ricochet off the goal post and Gambia's goalkeeper Baboucarr Gaye was forced into some saves.On the other hand, the Scorpions, who were very disciplined, were focused on trying to establish themselves in the game. Aside from the obvious threat of Brighton's Yankuba Minteh, who was a cause for concern for Senegal's defence with his accelerating pace, nothing much was seen of the Scorpions' side. Their best chance in the first half fell to Abdoulie Manneh who hit straight at the goalkeeper after a brilliant loop pass from Abubakr Barry. But when the Scorpions supporters thought they had held the AFCON champions to a stalemate draw at halftime, their team's inability to defeat a set-piece was again exposed as Seck ran without any disturbance through Gambia's defence and beat Baboucarr Gaye with a header for the breakthrough goal. Straight after the restart, Senegal's coach Pape Thiaw, who started the game largely with second-choice players, introduced Dieng, Mbaye and Mendy to the game. Those substitutions paid off immediately as Ibrahim Mbaye left the Gambia's goalkeeper helpless with a one-touch finish after the mesmeric Ismaila Sarr squared off a pass to his path in the box. At that moment, hopes for a comeback started dashing. If it were a home game, some fans might start leaving for fear of more goals. But captain Omar Colley gave a moment to the Scorpions supporters to celebrate as he scored a header in the 51st minute to become the first Scorpions player to score a goal at the gigantic Abdoulaye Wadé stadium. Omar Colley is the most experienced player in this Gambian side. Even with the introduction of more players, coach Jonathan McKinstry and his players were not able to salvage a draw.Instead, it was the AS Monaco midfielder Lamin Camara who came on from the bench to seal a deserved 3-1 victory for the host as he rebounded home from close range after a save by Baboucarr Gaye in the stoppage time. This was the young lad's third goal in two games against the Gambia at this level. Aside from the overly ambitious supporters, not many were expecting a victory for the Scorpions against a nation they've been struggling to beat across all categories in football, including at the school level. The focus with this largely inexperienced squad could only be on preparing the team ahead of the next AFCON qualifiers.This score for a football writer, is not any embarrassing. The question should be, how is Senegal steadily becoming a powerhouse in African football, a development that is cutting across all cadres of their football. Does it have to do with good administration, heavy investment or their close ties with teams and academies in France? Perhaps we will be back here another time to look at things that The Gambia could learn from Senegal to be able to attain new heights in football. For the Lions of Teranga, this was another justification that they are no match for The Gambia on the pitch, having defeated them 3-0 on January 15 2024, in the Ivory Coast AFCON. The African champions are not taking any chances heading into the World Cup. They were on the back of a 2-0 victory over Peru, and now that they have added another morale booster ahead of the global showpiece.

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2022 PALIAMENTARY ELECTION RESULTS

2022 PALIAMENTARY ELECTION RESULTS

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GRTS MOVES TO NEW SATELLITE FREQUENCY

Viewers are advised to retuned/scan their satellite receivers to be able to access GRTS signals. 

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OVER 2,000 KMC YOUTHS THANK PRESIDENT BARROW FOR RAMADAN NIGHT FOOTBALL TOURNEY, HAIL PEACE AND UNITY

More than 2,000 young people from the Kanifing Municipality met with President Adama Barrow to thank him for sponsoring the Ramadan Night Football Tournament held last month. The month-long competition brought together 40 teams and was designed to promote peace, sports, and unity among youths in the municipality.The delegation included participating teams, fans, organisers, officials, and youth leaders who mobilised to show appreciation for the President’s support.Abdoulie Juwara, a member of the organising committee, said the tournament was “much more than a football competition.” It gave young people a platform to showcase talent, interact with peers, and foster peace and unity. What began as an idea for 12 teams quickly expanded to 40, which Juwara said reflects the passion of youths to take part in activities that encourage healthy growth and responsible citizenship.Essa Jatta, vice president of Star Boys, champions of the tournament, called it “one of the most important events in the history of his club.” Star Boys took home a trophy and a D85,000 cash prize. Beyond competition, Jatta said the tournament kept youths engaged, focused, and united. He thanked President Barrow for backing what he called a “noble idea” and urged him to continue his patronage to help young people participate in national development.Youth leader Pa Njie, credited with the tournament’s success, said it brought “unprecedented unity” to KMC. He noted the overwhelming participation and peaceful conduct of the youths, stating that “no single incident of violence” was reported throughout the tournament. He linked this to the discipline of participants who upheld high standards of sportsmanship and respect for opponents. Njie added that the event also created off-field opportunities, with vendors benefiting from food and refreshment sales. He thanked the President and pledged to expand future editions to include more teams.Special Adviser to the President Momodou Sabally praised Barrow for empowering youths through sports and called for continued unity and respect for the law. He told the gathering that “the future is bright for Gambian youths.”Higher Education Minister Professor Pierre Gomez commended the youths for returning to thank the President. He said the Barrow administration has invested in sports infrastructure nationwide to empower young people. He encouraged the youths to embrace the President’s development efforts by registering in large numbers for the upcoming election to grant him another five-year mandate.His Excellency Adama Barrow President of the Republic of The Gambia provided a sponsorship package of D500,000 for the tournament. [PC: Saul Touray]President Barrow expressed “profound gratitude” to the young people for their unity during the tournament. He said their maturity and exemplary conduct showed that sports can serve as a powerful vehicle for national development, peace, and unity. The President urged them to maintain discipline and focus, noting that sports promote development, peaceful coexistence, and positive attitudes. The tournament, he added, proved that young people can shape their destiny when empowered. He renewed his commitment to supporting Gambian youths to become responsible and patriotic citizens.The meeting closed with entertainment from fan clubs, which organisers said added energy to the games and helped galvanise young people across the municipality.

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    GAMBIA RADIO

    GAMBIA RADIO

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    EXCLUSIVE ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITY: REACH MILLIONS WITH GRTS DURING AFCON 2025

    GRTS Television is thrilled to announce that it will be airing the highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations – AFCON 2025, taking place in Morocco from December 21, 2025. As the continent's premier football festival, GRTS invites business institutions, companies, and organisations to seize this golden opportunity to advertise their products and services during our live AFCON broadcasts.With millions of viewers across the nation and beyond, your brand will enjoy maximum visibility and impact. Don't miss out on this chance to reach a vast audience and take your marketing efforts to the next level.For sponsorship and advertising inquiries, please contact the GRTS Marketing Department at: 3957255 / 7833302 / 2547272GRTS - Bringing AFCON 2025 closer to you!

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    National Health Insurance Authority develop health benefit package for the National Health Insurance Scheme

    The National Health Insurance Authority on Tuesday began a three-day meeting to discuss the development of a health benefits package for the National Health Insurance Scheme across the country. The meeting brought together medical and health experts to map out targeted disease or service areas, for the essential healthcare package. The Minister of Health Dr. Amadou Lamin Samateh said the Authority is engaging medical and health experts to identify critical areas under the scheme. He said the development of the scheme will accelerate efforts to meet SDG 2030. The health minister also said that the Health Insurance Scheme would be available to both the public and private health facilities. The World Health Organization’s country representative Dr. Desta Tiruneh advised participants to consider the benefits package in line with available resources for health care service delivery. 

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    Jaliba Kuyateh Bestowed an Honorary Fellowship

    King of Kora Jaliba Kuyateh received an honorary fellowship from Goldsmiths, University of London at a graduation ceremony today. Jaliba Kuyateh’s award was in recognition of his work using music to improve perinatal mental health. He is the only Gambian appointed a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for his charitable work with children in the Gambia.  Jaliba Kuyateh dedicated the honors to the people of the Gambia; especially the women whom he said ‘have supported his career from the very beginning’. He further thanked the Goldsmith University governing council and the entire faculties for the milestone gesture. Jaliba detailed his career in peacebuilding, climate change campaign, health and social welfare issues, child rights, and education among others. He thanked the Gambia High Commission for the support, through its representative to the event, Mr. Suntou Touray, Deputy Head of Mission and staff for gracing the occasion, and to Yaram Arts for the collaboration and support.Jaliba Kuyateh felt honored and appreciated by the recognition and wishes to continue his collaborative work with Professor Lauren Stewarts of Goldsmith University in the area of participatory music research.Gambia High Commission in UK

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    BREAKING THE CULTURE OF SILENCE: A DIG INTO MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES AMONG GAMBIAN WOMEN

    As the world commemorates the 2025 International Women's Day, we examine the silent struggle many Gambian women face. The mental health challenges that are often hidden behind the pressures of daily life. From the isolation of postpartum depression to the scars left by gender-based violence. Women continue to fight secret battles. Yet, in a society where emotional vulnerability is seen as a weakness, they continue to endure in silence. In this piece, we dig deep into their struggles and narrate their experiences as they break the silence. We engage experts on what could be done for the many women fighting battles in their matrimonial homes. What truly needs to be done - a question for all to respond to.THE CHALLENGE Mental health remains a taboo topic in the country, especially for women, who are expected to be resilient caretakers while managing work, family, and societal expectations. For many, the burden becomes too heavy to carry alone but women facing monumentally disparaging conditions often struggle in silence.We visited Fatou Mbaye at Serrekunda, a mother of four who is a local food vendor. She said waking up at 5 a.m. is a daily routine, no matter how tired she might be.She rushes to the market, navigating the chaos to buy ingredients for the breakfast she sells to make ends meet and boost the family's income. It's a never-ending pressure, with scorching heat weighing her down as she stirs pots to serve customers and answer the endless calls of her four children. The weight of a wife, mother, and local food vendor is a crushing responsibility, yet no one sees the cracks forming beneath her forced smile.In anxiety, her mind constantly spinning with ‘worry over how to keep going’, in a society where women are expected to be strong, resilient, and silent. And for her, it's a matter of finding a way to survive it.‘After preparing the breakfast I sell, I bathe my children and get them ready for school. Then, I head out to run my small breakfast business. I return home around noon and quickly rush to the market to buy ingredients for lunch.’Fatou Mbaye, a mother of four who volunteered to narrate her experience as a house wife and street vendor 'After that, I take care of household chores and start cooking. I pause midway to pick up my children from school, then return home to finish preparing lunch before my husband gets back from work’ She recounts. Stress has been normalised to the point where women believe they must endure it without complaint. Fatou said if she speaks up, she risks being labelled as weak or ungrateful.‘The stress can be overwhelming, sometimes reaching a point where you feel anxious and emotionally drained, leading to mental exhaustion. Living under such pressure can be incredibly tough. Women go through so much, carrying heavy burdens every day.’‘Imagine waking up at 5 a.m. and working nonstop until 9 p.m. - that kind of routine is exhausting. Men should support their women in every possible way. If they can't provide financially, they should at least offer peace, encouragement, and emotional support’ Fatou said.WHAT ARE THE EXPERTS SAYING?As the world amplifies the voices of women, one conversation remains critical—the mental health crisis silently consuming women who carry the weight of their world alone. Even though calls are always made for the protection of women's rights, not much sensitisation is done to help women get over their internal crises, as many of them do not recognize that their feelings are rooted in mental health struggles.Madam Fatou Kinneh Kantara, a senior psychology lecturer at the University of The Gambia, said the burden of untold struggles can lead to severe mental distress. She emphasized the importance of respecting, protecting, and providing counselling for women, highlighting that unspoken pain often weighs heavier than visible wounds.‘The best thing about dealing with stressful issues is to discuss it. You have to talk to professionals about it, somebody who can actively listen to you and give you a safe space. Women should be celebrated, respected, loved and kind too.’‘Women have to be kind to each other as well, love and support each other mentally and physically. These are important things. If a woman is not comfortable, if they are going through any problem the whole family will suffer,’ the psychology expert said.EXPERIENCE OF A NEW MOTHERFor new mothers, the challenge is even more profound. Postpartum depression (PPD) affects many women, but in Gambian society, the topic is rarely discussed. New mothers are expected to be joyful and grateful, and anything less is often seen as unnatural.Binta Jammeh, a 29-year-old mother from Bakoteh, recalls how she had to give up her job to fully dedicate herself to the demanding roles of motherhood and being a wife.Binta's experience is a common one, yet many women suffer in silence, feeling ashamed to admit that they are struggling as they strive to avoid things that could jeopardise their marriages. ‘It’s very stressful. Having a child, you were a career woman - going to work and now everything stops. The first stress I went through was that there was no steady income for me anymore. So, if you are not very careful, sometimes it brings some friction between you and your partner when it comes to finance.’ Binta said.A CALL FOR CHANGE Among the sources of support for many struggling women, are the advocates and activists who they usually turn to when they can no longer stand the heat, especially on GBV issues.For some women, the impact of gender-based violence (GBV) compounds their mental health issues.Survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and forced marriages often carry deep psychological scars. Yet, many women are urged to keep their experiences private to avoid shame. Satang Dumbuya, an Advocacy Officer at the Network Against Gender Based Violence, emphasized the need for change.‘We may not be able to do something directly for someone who is silently suffering and not talking about you. This is why we encourage reporting at all levels - family, communities and schools. We tried to reach as many places as possible to ensure that we sensitise people so they can break the silence. Your silence does not protect you.’ she said.However, a growing number of women are advocating for mental health awareness. Organizations, women’s groups, and online platforms are beginning to raise awareness about the importance of mental health among women and seeking professional help.Experts are calling for stronger government investment in mental health services, including affordable therapy and mental health education. They also urge the inclusion of ‘mental health support in community programs and religious teachings’ for women. The mental health crisis among Gambian women is an urgent issue that requires immediate attention. As women continue to speak out, there is hope that the stigma surrounding mental health struggles will diminish. For lasting change, the country must invest in mental health resources and support for women, ensuring that no one has to suffer in silence. And the biggest players in that quest are probably men, who should not only see themselves as partners of women, but as providers, protectors and big advocates of the total freedom of women. How will the country and generations be like if the key nation and generational builders (women) continue to go through psychological, mental and physical stress? Perhaps not in anyone's interest. 

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    Agric. Minister Launches the African Emergency Food Production Facility

    The Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Demba Sabally, on Friday 23rd September 2022 launched the African Emergency Food Production Facility (AEFPF). The facility is supported by the African Development Bank through the Rice Value Chain Transformation Project (RVCTP).The AEFPF is additional financing that follows the joint meeting of the Minister of Agriculture and the Minister of Finance of the African Union on the African Emergency Food Production plan in which The Gambia participated. Speaking at the launching ceremony, Dr. Sabally informed the gathering that the Government of The Gambia is taking major strides to transform the Agriculture sector in addressing food security and meeting the nutritional needs of its people.He noted The Gambia’s high dependence on imports for staple and key commodities and said it has deepened the country’s vulnerability to external shocks such as global pandemics and crises.  

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    NATIONAL ASSEMBLY LIBRARY & RESEARCH DEPARTMENT TRAINS STAFF

    The Library and Research Department of the National Assembly of The Gambia certified participants to a weeklong training on Library Management and Research skills on Friday 30th September 2022.The objective of the training was to strengthen the capacity of librarians and researchers in the routine of supporting Members of the National Assembly in the performance of their legislative and oversight duties.Mr. Alhagie M Dumbuya, Director of Library and Research said the training was tailored around the duties and responsibilities of library assistants, classification of books, cataloging systems, and referencing from library resources.Deputy Clerk, Legislative Business and Programme, Mr. Daniel Cardos emphasised the importance of the training in the context that library and research services are highly sought after by both staff and Members of the Assembly. Mr. Cardos urged participants to apply the new skills on the job and share the knowledge with their colleagues.The lead trainer Ms. Matilda Johnson, former Director General of The Gambia National Library, and Mr. Alieu Sonko, Principal Librarian at the National Assembly guided the sessions through practical exercises at a pace measured to the need of fifty-eight representatives.The Library and Research Department offers impartial research services for Members on issues relating to National Assembly business and constituency work. It conducts briefings on topical issues and summaries of Bills being considered to adequately prepare Members both at Committee stages and Plenary sessions.   

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    SIS DENIES STAFF ROLE IN ILLEGAL VOTER REGISTRATION, DISMISSES GRTS JOURNALIST PROBE CLAIM 

    The State Intelligence Services (SIS) has noted with concern reports currently circulating on social media alleging that one of our staff members, Mr Abdoulie Bah, was involved in transporting non-Gambians to the Tanji registration centre and facilitating their registration during the ongoing supplementary voter registration exercise conducted by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).We wish to state unequivocally that the SIS staff member in question was not involved in the activities alleged in these social media reports. Following the circulation of these claims, the SIS conducted its own internal investigation and found the allegations to be unfounded. For the avoidance of doubt, Mr Abdoulie Bah is indeed a staff member of the SIS. However, his presence at the Tanji registration centre was solely to register his children, all of whom are Gambian citizens and meet the legal age requirement for acquiring a voter’s card. Similarly, the SIS wishes to clarify that it is not conducting any investigation into Mr Omar P. Jallow, said to be a GRTS journalist attached to the Office of the Vice President (OVP). Furthermore, contrary to allegations that the SIS received a call from Honourable Seedy Njie, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, we categorically state that no such call was received. Having clarified the allegations levelled against the SIS, the Service wishes to reassure Gambians and non-Gambians alike of our unwavering commitment to our national security and intelligence mandate. We remain clear-eyed and laser-focused on safeguarding our country so that democracy and constitutionality prevail and are preserved unhindered. The SIS will continue to build on the reforms and achievements of recent years, ensuring that our Service—your SIS—remains a pillar of trust, integrity, professionalism, and national pride among global intelligence services. Issued by: State Intelligence Services (SIS) Banjul, The Gambia 10th April 2026

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PRESIDENT BARROW JOINS INAUGURATION OF DAR AL BER-FUNDED MOSQUE IN OLD YUNDUM, URGES UNITY AND RESPECT FOR LAW

President Adama Barrow recently joined residents of Old Yundum to inaugurate a new mosque financed by the Dar Al Ber Foundation. The ceremony drew religious scholars, senior government officials, and members of the community.The mosque is one of several funded by the foundation to expand prayer spaces for Muslims and support religious education across the country.The official opening began with a sermon from the local imam, who focused on peace, tolerance, and responsible citizenship. He told the congregation that obeying the law and respecting constituted authority is a religious duty necessary to preserve order and stability. He commended the government for creating an environment that allows citizens to live in harmony and called on all Gambians to practice responsible citizenship. The imam then led a two-rakaa congregational prayer to mark the mosque’s formal opening to the public.After the prayer, Alkalo Ousman Bojang thanked President Barrow for honouring the community’s invitation, describing his presence as “a great privilege.” He praised the President’s outreach to communities, saying it strengthens trust and understanding.The Chief Executive Officer of the Dar Al Ber Foundation also expressed gratitude to the President on behalf of the donors. He reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to supporting the government’s development agenda, especially in education. He said the new mosque will serve as a centre for worship and Islamic learning, contributing to the spiritual growth of Yundum.President Barrow called the occasion a homecoming, noting he had lived in Old Yundum for more than a decade. He praised the Dar Al Ber Foundation for its continued support of The Gambia, including other mosques it has built nationwide. The President urged Gambians to unite for development and progress, arguing that politics should be a platform for exchanging diverse views to advance the nation.

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REGIONAL FIRST LADIES MEET IN BANJUL TO DISCUSS GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

First Ladies from various SWEDD+ countries gathered in Banjul for the First Ladies' Forum on Zero Tolerance for Gender-Based Violence. The event was organised by the Government of The Gambia, the Department of Human Development and Social Affairs of the ECOWAS Commission, and other development partners. The Vice President of The Gambia, H.E. Mohammed B.S. Jallow, who represented President Adama Barrow, presided over the event.This high-level forum was part of activities marking the implementation of the SWEDD+ Project and attracted numerous dignitaries, including Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow, First Lady Fatoumatta Bah Barrow, President of the ECOWAS Commission Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, First Lady of Senegal Madame Marie Kon Faye, representatives of First Ladies from across SWEDD+ countries, ministers from The Gambia and the region, and women activists, among others.The purpose of this gathering was to mobilise the commitment of First Ladies in the fight against gender-based violence and school dropout rates among adolescent girls, as well as to strengthen existing institutional structures and consolidate the progress made in combating GBV.Speaking at the event, Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow emphasised that The Gambia has made significant strides to improve the welfare of women and girls. (The Vice President of The Gambia, H.E. Mohammed B.S. Jallow)“We have strengthened our legal and policy frameworks to address gender-based violence, and we will continue to enhance access to justice for survivors. With support from our stakeholders, the government has expanded community-based interventions to intensify prevention, awareness, and behavioural change,” VP Jallow stated. As the host of the forum, The Gambia's First Lady, Madam Fatoumatta Bah Barrow, highlighted her commitments through her FaBB Foundation to promote the welfare of women and girls and advocate for their protection. “In my journey, I have worked to address the root causes of gender-based violence, including poverty, gender inequality, economic insecurity, illiteracy, and limited access to essential social services such as healthcare. By tackling these underlying issues, we do more than just respond to violence; we work to prevent it,” she said.(The Gambia's First Lady, Madam Fatoumatta Bah Barrow)The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Alieu Touray, stated that addressing challenges related to gender-based violence will require sustained collaboration. He noted that many women and girls continue to face various forms of violence, including domestic abuse, sexual assault, child marriage, and other harmful practices.“Addressing this urgent reality needs coordinated, sustained, and high-level political action. Today's gathering is much more than a meeting; it is a powerful expression of regional solidarity and political will. It underscores our shared understanding that ending gender-based violence demands committed leadership, strong partnerships, and the mobilisation of communities at all levels. To stop gender-based violence, let us educate girls,” Dr Touray urged.(The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Alieu Touray)Other speakers, including Senegal's First Lady, Marie Kon Faye, and representatives of various first ladies and international organisations, called for enhanced protection and empowerment of girls by states and communities throughout the region.With the aim of contributing to gender-transformative interventions that promote the social and economic empowerment of girls and women in West and Central Africa, there is a strong hope that First Ladies will continue to use their voices to advocate for the protection of women and girls throughout the region.

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PRESIDENT BARROW ARMS DLEAG WITH 8 NEW VEHICLES IN ZERO-TOLERANCE DRUG WAR

His Excellency President Adama Barrow has presented a fleet of eight operational vehicles to the Gambia Drug Law Enforcement Agency during a ceremony at the State House on Friday. These brand-new pickup trucks are intended to strengthen the Agency's capacity to combat the proliferation and abuse of illicit substances in the country.The keys to the new vehicles were handed over to the Ministry of Interior for delivery to the Director General of the Gambia Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Demba Ceesay, by the President.At the presentation ceremony, which was attended by Chief of Staff Alieu Loum, Samba Faal, (Chairman of the Agency's Board of Directors), and other senior management members, Director General Demba Ceesay expressed his deep gratitude to the President. He described the gesture as a “vote of confidence in the Agency and a demonstration of political will in the fight against the drug issue.”Ceesay reaffirmed the Agency's commitment to combating drugs and other illicit substances, noting that these new vehicles will significantly enhance interagency cooperation and partnerships.President Barrow spoke about the dangers that drugs pose to society, particularly to young people, and reiterated his government's “zero tolerance policy” towards drug trafficking and abuse. He expressed confidence that the vehicles will empower the Drug Law Enforcement Agency to effectively carry out its mandate.He commended the security forces for their achievements over the years, emphasising that “peace, security, and stability” are fundamental for sustainable socio-economic and infrastructural development.The President challenged the security services, especially the Drug Law Enforcement Agency, to “rise to the challenges” posed by drug abuse and trafficking. He also urged the public to support the security forces' efforts by “exposing criminals and criminal activity to enhance public safety.”The eight vehicles will be distributed to various Agency posts and offices across the country to improve the mobility of operatives in the fight against drugs.

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BRITISH BARRISTER MARTIN HACKETT NAMED GAMBIA'S SPECIAL PROSECUTOR TO TRY JAMMEH-ERA CRIMES

The Government of The Gambia has appointed Martin Hackett, a British barrister, as the Special Prosecutor for The Gambia. This appointment is part of the implementation process for the recommendations made by the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC).The announcement was made by the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dawda Jallow, during a press briefing at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre earlier today.Martin Hackett, who has nearly 30 years of experience in international law and prosecution, was selected for this position from a pool of 13 candidates, which included one Gambian applicant.The TRRC heard testimonies from 393 witnesses, the majority of whom were direct victims or family members recounting stories of torture, murder, and other atrocities. Minister Jallow stated that the government has accepted all of the TRRC's prosecution recommendations outlined in its White Paper on the TRRC Report.[The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dawda Jallow]The Truth Commission recommended prosecuting a total of 69 individuals, including former President Yahya Jammeh, for various crimes such as torture, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances.The Special Prosecutor will serve a four-year term, which may be renewed if necessary. The annual budget allocated for the office of the Special Prosecutor is estimated to be $2.5 million.The newly appointed Special Prosecutor is expected to begin duties this month, pending the establishment and appointment of his senior management team and operational structure.In a separate update, Minister Jallow informed the press about the 2025 performance report for the Directorate of Public Prosecution under the Ministry of Justice. This report indicates that 70 cases were concluded during the year, including 11 murder cases among other offences. Minister Jallow added that "out of those 70 cases, 46 reached their logical conclusion, resulting in verdicts being delivered." The remaining cases were either withdrawn or struck out. "The Department of Criminal Division secured 36 convictions out of the 46 cases. For those that reached a conviction or were appealed, we successfully defended the appeal," he said.This is regarded as a significant achievement for the Ministry, as it is the custodian of the country's justice delivery system.

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    SIS DENIES STAFF ROLE IN ILLEGAL VOTER REGISTRATION, DISMISSES GRTS JOURNALIST PROBE CLAIM 

    The State Intelligence Services (SIS) has noted with concern reports currently circulating on social media alleging that one of our staff members, Mr Abdoulie Bah, was involved in transporting non-Gambians to the Tanji registration centre and facilitating their registration during the ongoing supplementary voter registration exercise conducted by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).We wish to state unequivocally that the SIS staff member in question was not involved in the activities alleged in these social media reports. Following the circulation of these claims, the SIS conducted its own internal investigation and found the allegations to be unfounded. For the avoidance of doubt, Mr Abdoulie Bah is indeed a staff member of the SIS. However, his presence at the Tanji registration centre was solely to register his children, all of whom are Gambian citizens and meet the legal age requirement for acquiring a voter’s card. Similarly, the SIS wishes to clarify that it is not conducting any investigation into Mr Omar P. Jallow, said to be a GRTS journalist attached to the Office of the Vice President (OVP). Furthermore, contrary to allegations that the SIS received a call from Honourable Seedy Njie, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, we categorically state that no such call was received. Having clarified the allegations levelled against the SIS, the Service wishes to reassure Gambians and non-Gambians alike of our unwavering commitment to our national security and intelligence mandate. We remain clear-eyed and laser-focused on safeguarding our country so that democracy and constitutionality prevail and are preserved unhindered. The SIS will continue to build on the reforms and achievements of recent years, ensuring that our Service—your SIS—remains a pillar of trust, integrity, professionalism, and national pride among global intelligence services. Issued by: State Intelligence Services (SIS) Banjul, The Gambia 10th April 2026

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    THE GAMBIA AND SPAIN SIGN TWO CRITICAL AGREEMENTS

    President Barrow Wednesday hosts his Spanish counterpart, His Excellency Mr Pedro  Sanchez Perez Castejon President of The Government of Spain, for a State Visit. The visit marks an important occasion as the two States signed two significant memoranda of understanding on Circular Migration and Security Cooperation. The two agreements are crucial for facilitating legal migration and ensuring stability and security.The Circular Migration agreement is expected to enable Gambians to legally migrate to Spain to work in industries to tackle labour shortages in Spain. On the other hand, the Security Cooperation Agreement aims to enhance cooperation in addressing security challenges, through the exchange of information and intelligence to combat organised crime and other security threats.By addressing key areas such as migration and security, both nations aim to unlock new opportunities for mutual benefit, enhancing their partnership.The State visit highlights the strengthening of ties between The Gambia and Spain, focusing on bilateral development.The state visit to The Gambia marks a milestone in the relationship between the two countries. The outcomes of this visit are anticipated to drive further progress in strengthening the partnership between The Gambia and Spain. 

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    2022 GABECE and WASSCE for the grades 9 and 12 students to go ahead

    The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE) says the 2022 GABECE and WASSCE for the grades 9 and 12 students will be conducted as planned. The Ministry said in a statement that the decision follows a virtual meeting with stakeholders which includes the Ministry of Finance and The West African Examination council. The meeting was said to have amicably resolved the issue of arrears. 

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    Gambia government holds "Major Press Conference"

    The government of the Gambia on Thursday hosted a major press conference on the theme “Spotlighting the Banjul rehabilitation project” Chaired by the government spokesperson and adviser to the president on Diaspora affairs Ebrima G Sankareh the briefing was aimed at shedding light on public doubts about the Banjul rehabilitation project. The project came under fire following last month's powerful floods that hit the capital city and beyond. The Minister of information Lamin Queen Jammeh said the press conference was sanctioned by president  Adama Barrow to provide clarity on controversies that followed the unexpected floods.The questions from the press touched on how the contract was awarded to Gai construction company and whether the company had fulfilled its tax obligation as required under such contracts.  The minister of Works, Construction and Infrastructure Ebrima Sillah said there was another addendum on the contract that removed the tax exemption. He also explained that the government does provide a certain tax exemption on projects funded by the state or donor organisations. The Commissioner General of the Gambia Revenue Authority Yankuba Darboe said the contractor met all tax obligations and submitted audited accounts on time. Officials say powerful pumping machines have now been installed in the city. The machines they say would be able to efficiently empty flood water from the city.

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    PRESIDENT BARROW BRINGS HOPE TO WULI WEST: WORLD BANK ROADS TO TRANSFORM FARMING COMMUNITIES 

    The President His Excellency Adama Barrow held a meeting in Chamoi Bunda, Wuli West, as part of his six-day tour to lay the foundation stones for World Bank-funded road projects. This meeting was an opportunity for the Gambian leader to highlight his government's commitment to infrastructural development as a key driver of growth. The project will fund the construction of a 5.4 km road from Chamoi Bunda to Limbambulu.Beneficiary communities from the wider Wuli West district attended the meeting and celebrated the launch of this important project.During the meeting, both the Alkalo of Chamoi Bunda and the Chief of Wuli West praised the President and the World Bank for their efforts to transform rural communities and empower farmers.Kebba Sillah, a respected community leader, described the road project as transformative. He emphasised that it offers farming communities better access to markets and services. Mr Sillah also commended the government and the Ministry of Agriculture for providing farmers with subsidies, fertiliser, and seeds, adding that these feeder roads are essential for large-scale agricultural production.The regional chairman of the NPP, Alhaji Bubu Drammeh, also acknowledged President Barrow for his investments in agriculture, which have resulted in increased yields. He credited these improvements to the President's personal commitment and progressive leadership. The regional chairman urged voters to register for the upcoming election and to support the ruling party.District youth representatives Ousman Bah and Aja Fatou Saho praised the project as a significant opportunity for young people to engage in agriculture, facilitating employment and sustainable socio-economic development. They remarked that President Barrow’s leadership has initiated numerous programs to empower youth, and they encouraged their peers to embrace these opportunities in agriculture to foster growth and development.Honourable Famara Sabally, the National Assembly Member for Wuli West, noted that these feeder roads had been neglected for decades, which had caused hardships for rural farmers trying to access markets. He commended the President for this bold initiative that promises to improve the lives of farmers.Regional Governor Samba Bah echoed these sentiments, discussing the benefits the roads will bring to remote areas where access to farmlands and markets has long been a challenge. The Governor urged Gambians to remain united and peaceful to accelerate national development.Sulayman Sumareh, the Director General of the National Roads Authority, revealed that the roads would be built to standards designed to last 25 years. He stated that the authority would closely supervise the work to ensure contractors and consultants meet their deadlines.President Barrow stated that the World Bank-funded road projects address significant infrastructure gaps in rural areas, providing farmers with new opportunities for access to markets. He emphasised that this initiative will connect all communities to major highways, ending decades of isolation and marginalisation that have hindered rural development.The President took the opportunity to reassure local farmers that his government will continue to prioritise infrastructural development as a driver of growth. He pledged that the next five years will see more groundbreaking projects.He called on all Gambians to embrace and support his development agenda, which aims to deliver quality road projects that connect communities across the country.The President also remarked that he would not be distracted by critics who seek to undermine his government and create confusion among Gambians. He urged his supporters to register en masse for the upcoming election, arguing that the outcome will shape the nation's future for the next five years.He expressed gratitude to the people of Wuli West for their attendance, describing it as a vote of confidence in his leadership, which is results-driven and focused on development.

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    President Barrow Wraps Up 207km Road Tour: 35km of Feeder Roads Launched in Kombo and Foni to Link Farms, Markets and Communities

    During the final leg of the stone-laying ceremonies for the proposed 207 km feeder road projects, which are jointly funded by the World Bank and the government, His Excellency Adama Barrow, laid the foundation stones for several feeder roads in Kombo North and South, as well as in Foni.One of the key projects is the Lamin Daranka road, which stretches 1.5 km and serves as a vital link to nearby women's vegetable gardens and rice fields. Although the road is relatively short, it plays a critical role in supporting the lives and livelihoods of thousands of women in this semi-urban area. Community members gathered in large numbers to welcome the President and the First Lady.Following the laying of the foundation stone for the contract awarded to Solo Dabo, with consultancy services provided by Pace and Ceeteq Joint Venture, the President travelled south to the coastal settlement of Gunjur. There, he marked the commencement of work on a 6.1 km road that will connect Gunjur with Berending.This important feeder road is nearly inaccessible during the rainy season, making it difficult for residents to reach markets in Brikama to sell their produce. Residents celebrated this project as a milestone in the history of Kombo South, as it provides essential connectivity to the main population centres.After leaving Kombo South, President Barrow and his entourage returned to Foni, where a day earlier, he had laid the foundation stones for several feeder road projects.His first stop was in Kanpanti, where he laid the foundation stone for a 4.3 km road from Kapa to Ballen. The entourage then proceeded to Kusamai, where another foundation stone laying ceremony took place for a 6 km road to Bajagarr. Similar ceremonies were also held in Sibanor for the construction of a 4.7 km road to Gifanga.In Bulajorr, President Barrow, assisted by the First Lady, Agriculture Minister Demba Sabally, and the village Alkalo, laid the foundation stone for a 6.3 km road to Katacorr. The final stone-laying ceremony took place in Tampoto for the construction of a 9 km road to Jakoi Sibrik, Somita/Batendin, and Jakoi Paima, bringing the total to 34.9 km of feeder roads.These roads are expected to improve rural connectivity, enhance access to markets, and promote socio-economic development. The projects are funded by the World Bank through its Gambia Inclusive and Resilient Value Chain Development Project, with additional funding from the government of The Gambia.

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    Bakoteh wins Secondary School Athletics Championship

    Bakoteh Upper and the Senior Secondary School has won Gambia Secondary Schools Sports Association’s National Inter-Schools Athletics Championship. This is Bakoteh’s first ever triumph in the Senior Secondary Schools Athletics Championship.  They scored 365point leading their closest rivals by 181 points. They received a trophy and a hundred thousand dalasi cash prize.Charles Jow in second place got Fifty thousand Dalasi and St Michael in 3rd received Twenty Five thousand Dalasi.  Essau Senior finished 4th, Brikama Upper and Senior Secondary 5th while Muslim High finished 6th position. This year’s athletic championship was marred by controversy when over a dozen schools were expelled from the competition.  Among them was the defending champions Bottrop Senior secondary school, who were aiming for a sixth consecutive title.  

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    PRESIDENT BARROW HANDS OVER MILLIONS IN FARM EQUIPMENT

    His Excellency,  President Adama Barrow, has handed over agricultural equipment valued at millions of Dalasis to selected farmers throughout the country during a ceremony held in Brikamaba, CRR South. The equipment, which includes power tillers, milling machines, threshers, combined harvesters, and tricycles, is funded by the World Bank through the GIRAV project. This handover represents a strategic shift toward mechanised agriculture.Over 400 pieces of modern agricultural production and processing equipment are designed to empower local farmers by encouraging large-scale production and transitioning to commercial agriculture.In his speech at the ceremony, President Barrow praised this initiative as a tangible demonstration of his government's commitment to national food security and sustainability. He emphasised that mechanisation is crucial for transforming the agricultural sector and stated that this equipment will enhance efficiency and increase output throughout the agricultural value chain.The President expressed deep gratitude to the World Bank for its support of Gambian farmers and commended the GIRAV project for promoting climate-smart farming, improved agricultural methods, and mechanisation.He advised farmers to use the equipment sustainably to maximise production.Representatives of farmer associations praised the government, under President Barrow's leadership, for its support. They noted that this initiative marks a historic first where local farmers have free access to mechanised equipment and assured that the equipment would be used for its intended purposes.Other speakers at the ceremony, including the Alkalo, Chief, Regional Governor, and a National Assembly Member, highlighted the significance of this development as a historic milestone in the country’s agricultural transformation. They acknowledged that the challenges faced by farmers had discouraged many young people from pursuing farming as a career.With the introduction of this new equipment, the speakers noted that farmers now have a chance to expand production, create jobs, and drive development.In a related development, President Barrow also presented two new ambulances to the communities of Njoben Health Post and Jamagen Health Post. The keys to the ambulances were handed over to representatives of the two villages, who expressed their gratitude to the President and his government.The agricultural production and processing equipment will be distributed to individual farmers and associations across the country, with 50% of the beneficiaries being women and young people.

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SENEGAL SHOW SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE TO MAINTAIN DOMINANCE OVER THE GAMBIA

Playing in front of home supporters, Senegal once again proved that they are unmatched against the Scorpions of The Gambia as they showed a superior performance to defeat the visitors 3-1 at Stade Abdoulaye Wadé in Diamniadio. Just as expected, the host first took the lead in the first half stoppages after the Scorpions initially appeared defiant. It was the unlikeliest of scorers, centre-back Abdoulaye Seck, Senegal's captain for the night, who glanced home a free header after a corner from El-Hadji Malick Diouf. Within a moment of his introduction after the break, the PSG starlet Ibrahim Mbaye doubled Senegal's lead after a clever pass from Ismaila Sarr in the 47th minute. At that moment, it looked more like a desperate moment for the Scorpions, but veteran captain Omar Colley restored a bit of confidence as he nodded home a Yankuba Minteh's corner from a tight angle to make it 2-1. But when coach Pape Thiaw reverted to his bench, that certainly means an increase in Senegal's hunger for victory and substitute Lamine Camara sealed a deserved 3-1 win for the holders of the AFCON crown.This might be a game against a side [The Gambia] ranked 116 as opposed to Senegal who are ranked 12, but Senegal perhaps knew that given the proximity, the Scorpions would give their best in the clash to try to put their dominance to an end, maybe the more reason they opted to play against the Scorpions. It could also be looked at as a way of presenting their AFCON trophy to their neighbours, The Gambia, a way of strengthening the relationship between the two countries. Either way, the bigger focus was on the 90 minutes for the night. Stade Abdoulaye Wadé wasn't full, but Senegal has a greater number of supporters on the stands, and a decent number of Scorpions supporters took the six-hour journey to cheer their players too. Despite the rift between them and the Confederation of African Football, who now declared Morocco as winners of the AFCON on "disciplinary" grounds after Senegal protested against a penalty decision in the final and left the pitch before coming back to continue playing and ended up winning 1-0 against Morocco. Nicholas Jackson started his football in the Gambian First Division League before moving to Senegal Senegal who took the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sports to maintain their status as champions, paraded their AFCON trophy before the Senegalese and Gambian supporters inside the stadium. As a way of showing respect for that achievement, the visiting supporters cheered them as they walked around with what will be their second AFCON title provided that their appeal is successful. And when the 33-year-old Mauritanian referee Abdul Aziz Bouh blew for the kick-off, the host quickly got out of the block and tried to press with high intensity. In the process, both Assan Diao and Abdoulaye Seck had their efforts ricochet off the goal post and Gambia's goalkeeper Baboucarr Gaye was forced into some saves.On the other hand, the Scorpions, who were very disciplined, were focused on trying to establish themselves in the game. Aside from the obvious threat of Brighton's Yankuba Minteh, who was a cause for concern for Senegal's defence with his accelerating pace, nothing much was seen of the Scorpions' side. Their best chance in the first half fell to Abdoulie Manneh who hit straight at the goalkeeper after a brilliant loop pass from Abubakr Barry. But when the Scorpions supporters thought they had held the AFCON champions to a stalemate draw at halftime, their team's inability to defeat a set-piece was again exposed as Seck ran without any disturbance through Gambia's defence and beat Baboucarr Gaye with a header for the breakthrough goal. Straight after the restart, Senegal's coach Pape Thiaw, who started the game largely with second-choice players, introduced Dieng, Mbaye and Mendy to the game. Those substitutions paid off immediately as Ibrahim Mbaye left the Gambia's goalkeeper helpless with a one-touch finish after the mesmeric Ismaila Sarr squared off a pass to his path in the box. At that moment, hopes for a comeback started dashing. If it were a home game, some fans might start leaving for fear of more goals. But captain Omar Colley gave a moment to the Scorpions supporters to celebrate as he scored a header in the 51st minute to become the first Scorpions player to score a goal at the gigantic Abdoulaye Wadé stadium. Omar Colley is the most experienced player in this Gambian side. Even with the introduction of more players, coach Jonathan McKinstry and his players were not able to salvage a draw.Instead, it was the AS Monaco midfielder Lamin Camara who came on from the bench to seal a deserved 3-1 victory for the host as he rebounded home from close range after a save by Baboucarr Gaye in the stoppage time. This was the young lad's third goal in two games against the Gambia at this level. Aside from the overly ambitious supporters, not many were expecting a victory for the Scorpions against a nation they've been struggling to beat across all categories in football, including at the school level. The focus with this largely inexperienced squad could only be on preparing the team ahead of the next AFCON qualifiers.This score for a football writer, is not any embarrassing. The question should be, how is Senegal steadily becoming a powerhouse in African football, a development that is cutting across all cadres of their football. Does it have to do with good administration, heavy investment or their close ties with teams and academies in France? Perhaps we will be back here another time to look at things that The Gambia could learn from Senegal to be able to attain new heights in football. For the Lions of Teranga, this was another justification that they are no match for The Gambia on the pitch, having defeated them 3-0 on January 15 2024, in the Ivory Coast AFCON. The African champions are not taking any chances heading into the World Cup. They were on the back of a 2-0 victory over Peru, and now that they have added another morale booster ahead of the global showpiece.

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President Barrow’s Sponsored Ramadan Night Football Tournament Concludes

The President Barrow-sponsored Ramadan Football Championship came to an end on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at the Serrekunda West Mini Stadium. The final match featured an exciting showdown between Star Boys F.C. and Babun Fatty.After the match ended in a goalless draw, Star Boys F.C. triumphed in the penalty shootout, earning a cash prize of D75,000. Babun Fatty, as the runner-up, received D50,000, while the Tigers of Kotu secured third place and were awarded D15,000. President Barrow attended the final, underscoring the significance of youth empowerment through sports. The tournament showcased 40 participating teams and highlighted the government's commitment to grassroots development and community engagement.The colourful final attracted a large audience of football enthusiasts and high-ranking government officials.

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Olympic House to Get Facelift with $50,000 ANOCA Grant

The Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC) has secured a $50,000 (approximately 3.6 million dalasi) grant from the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) to renovate the Olympic House.This significant funding injection is part of the NOC's strategic plan to upgrade the facility, boost capacity, and give it a fresh new look.The renovation project is set to commence soon, following the signing of a contract with MJ20 Construction and Civil Engineering Company Ltd. The revamped Olympic House is expected to enhance Gambia's sports profile, showcasing the country's commitment to sports development. 

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Team Gambia Settles For Silver After Defeat To Sierra Leone

The Gambia's beach volleyball duo, Abdallah Bah and Omar Bojang, fell short of the gold medal at the U18 African Youth Games in Angola, losing 2-0 (22-20, 21-14) to Sierra Leone in the final. Despite being unbeaten prior to the final, the Gambian team faced a tough challenge from their Sierra Leonean opponents, who proved too strong in the end.

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Gambian Duo Reach African Youth Games Beach Volleyball Final

The Gambian beach volleyball duo of Abdalllah Bah and Ndoti Dampha have made history by reaching the final of the 2025 African Youth Games Beach Volleyball Championship in Angola. The pair defeated Kenya 2-1 to book their spot in the championship match, where they will face Sierra Leone.Under the expert guidance of coach Amadou Jarju, the team has been in scintillating form throughout the U18 competition, outplaying their opponents with ease. This latest victory has set the stage for a thrilling final, with Bah and Dampha looking to add another gold medal to Gambia’s impressive collection.The Gambian team's recent dominance in beach volleyball has been nothing short of remarkable. In 2025 alone, they have won several international medals, including silver at the African School Games in Algeria and gold medals in Nigeria and Banjul. They have also had a stellar performance in the U18 Doha World Championship Beach Volleyball competition, where they defeated the USA 2-1 in their opening pool match.With their sights set on the final, coach Amadou Jarju and his team will be confident of bringing home the gold medal and continuing their winning streak. Abdalllah Bah (2), who now represents the Gambia in five international competitions in including Algeria, Nigeria,  Banjul and Doha, is pairing with Ndoti Dampha (1) for the first time. This is Ndoti's first international beach volleyball competition.

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