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NAM begin debate on SONA

National Assembly Members today debated on President Barrow’s State of the Nation address. Lawmakers called for increased focus on growth and citizen participation to advance national development.  Vice President Alieu Badara Joof represented the president at the Legislative Chambers. Parliamentarians highlighted a raft of concerns to the Vice President raising the need for ministers to respond to the assembly whenever they are called upon. Honourable Kebba K. Barrow member of Kombo South called on the government to come up with strategies to aid post-Covid-19 recovery and farmers’ needs. Salieu Jawo for Jokadu hailed the government for the infrastructural development. Bakary Kora of Upper Fulladou West stressed the need for concerted efforts to mechanize the Jahally-Pacharr Rice Fields and increase access to clean drinking water and electricity for rural communities. Legislators urged the government to look into the high crime rate in the country, which has seen a fresh spike. The debate continues. 

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The Gambia Government condemns the spate of homicides in the country.

President Adama Barrow has expressed shock and sadness over recent killings in the country. A press release, pictured above, from the government spokesperson Ebrima G Sankareh, says the President assures swift investigations and justice delivery. The statement follows five homicide cases around the country in a week.

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Ambassador-designate Lamin Dibba presents letters of credence to the UN Secretary General Antonio Guteres

The Gambian Ambassador-designate to the United Nations H.E Lamin Dibba on Friday formally presented his letters of credence to Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at UN headquarters in New York. Speaking to GRTS after the ceremony, ambassador Dibba outlined his priorities during his tenure as The Gambia's Permanent Representative to the UN. He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening The Gambia's role in the advancement of global peace and security, especially at a time when the World is faced with increased tension caused by conflicts and environmental issues. Until his appointment as UN ambassador,  Lamin Dibba was the Minister of Environment and climate change. He replaces Ambassador Lang Yarbou who is now a Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

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Charitable organisations donate to EFSTH

Two charitable organisations, Open Hands Gambia and Save Our world donated drugs, and sanitary and electrical equipment to Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital. At a presentation ceremony on Wednesday the vice chairperson of Open Hands Gambia Adele Sock said the gesture was meant to complement the government’s efforts in the health care service delivery to Gambians. The Chairman of Save Our World, Gambia Chapter Abdou Jallow assured his organisation’s continuous support to the welfare of Gambians. Officials at the EFSTH promised the donors that the material will be put to good use. 

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Livestock production facility to be erected in URR

The Small Ruminants Production Enhancement project has embarked on the construction of a livestock production facility in the Upper River Region.  The Project Director Mamud Njie said the facility would boost farmers’ capacity in livestock production, processing, and marketing. Director Gambia Livestock Marketing Agency Mamodou Darboe assured his office’s commitment to improving farmers’ capacity in livestock production. The deputy governor of URR Mamanding Ceesay said the project would create job opportunities for the youth in the area.

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Flood victims receive cash donations

Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in partnership with the Regional Disaster Management team in West Coast Region on Thursday distributed cash to 54 families affected by recent floods in the country. Each household received D5000.00 to enhance its recovery efforts. The Regional Disaster Management Coordinator, West Coast Region Binta Sey Jadama thanked ADRA for the intervention. Musa Jallow on behalf of the beneficiaries thanked the agency for the timely support.

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Actionaid International the Gambia encourage women to venture into agriculture

Actionaid International the Gambia recently embarked on Famer visits in the lower river region. The activity was aimed at inspiring women to venture into agricultural activities. The event was also part of the implementation of EU funded project, “empowering civil society organizations to mobilize citizen’s action towards the green economy and sustainable environment". Sarjo Camara of Actionaid said the outreach programme provided farmers the opportunity to exchange ideas and learn agricultural best practices to promote climate-smart agriculture. The president of the Treasure Women Warriors in Kwinela Kumba Daffeh encouraged women to venture into agriculture for economic development. The delegation also visited a five-hectare ‘Narika’ rice field in kundong Numu kunda in Kiang Central District. Moro Cham a rice farmer spoke on the importance of rice cultivation for food security and income generation.

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Government to reintroduce the draft constitution at the National Assembly

His Excellency President Adama Barrow says his government would reintroduce the draft constitution and the anti-corruption Bill before the national assembly for legislative action. The announcement was made in a lengthy speech on Thursday as he delivered the state of the nation address at the 3rd Ordinary Session of the 2022 legislative year. The policy statement read at the legislative house in Banjul covered finance and economic affairs, health, education, and the environment amongst others. President Barrow said the economic recovery faced setbacks due to the impact of the covid-19 pandemic and the global crisis. He reported that the country’s debt portfolio stands at D5.01 billion of which D1.2 billion is external debt. The President explained that the REPGam project, a research-based initiative under the Higher Education Ministry would provide a renewable source of energy to 26 beneficiary communities across the country. President Barrow recognised the diaspora investment of over D700million to the country’s economy through remittances.  

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Serrekunda Market area caught fire

Reports reaching GRTS online say a fire broke out at the Serrekunda market on Tuesday night destroying a number of stalls. Firefighters and several volunteers were said to have struggled to contain the blaze. The Kanifing Municipal Council however was quick to issue a statement denying reports that indicate the Serrekunda market was on fire. The KMC statement said the fire caught private properties around the market and caused significant damage.

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President Barrow signs book of condolence at the British High Commission

His Excellency President Adama Barrow, this morning signed the book of condolences at the Residence of the British High Commissioner in Bakau Cape Point, following the demise of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll, Speaking to the media after his audience with the High Commissioner, H.E Mr. David Belgrove, President Barrow once again expressed his condolences to the Royal Family and the People of the United Kingdom. He said it was important for him to pay his respects to the High Commissioner personally. Speaking on King Charles lll, President Barrow said he is confident that the new monarch will further solidify the strong ties between The Gambia and the United Kingdom. On his part, the High Commissioner Belgrove said President Barrow’s visit is ‘‘a symbol of close ties’’ between The Gambia and Great Britain. He said with the proclamation of the new King; it is time for the commonwealth to renew its shared values of democracy, freedom, and Human Rights.  

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The Ministry of Health suspends syrup paracetamol

The Ministry of Health has suspended the use of all syrup paracetamol. The directive follows an investigation of the Acute Kidney Injury outbreak in the country that claimed the lives of many children. A statement from the ministry of health confirms that the possible causes are E. Colin and possible toxicity from syrup Paracetamol. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a recent rare condition in the country that affects children under 5.

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President Adama Barrow mourns the death of Queen Elizabeth II

President Adama Barrow joined millions around the world in mourning the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. The queen passed away on Thursday at her Balmoral residence in Scotland. Here is his statement.“I join the world in mourning the demise of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. We mourn her passing and honour her exemplary life of selflessness, tenacity, and dedication to service.On behalf of my government and the people of The Gambia, I extend my condolences to His Majesty King Charles lll, the Royal family, and the people of the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth, and the world at large.”  

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Latest Updates

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PRESIDENT BARROW SWEARS IN MARTIN HACKETT AS SPECIAL PROSECUTOR FOR JAMMEH-ERA CRIMES

The Special Prosecutor appointed to address crimes committed during the Jammeh era has been sworn in at a ceremony presided over by President H.E. Adama Barrow. Barrister Martin Hackett was appointed to this role by the President, acting under the authority granted by the Special Prosecutor Act.His appointment represents a significant step towards justice for the victims of the 22 years of severe human rights abuses under former President Yahya Jammeh's regime.Mr Hackett has an extensive career in international and criminal law, specialising in cases involving genocide and counter-terrorism.Having taken his oaths of office, allegiance and secrecy, he will lead the Special Prosecutor's Office to seek justice for the victims of abuses during the Jammeh era.Mr Hackett fully understands the weight of this responsibility, which he describes as a “process that will put victims, survivors, and communities at the centre.” He has pledged to ensure that the process will be "independent, impartial, and respect the rule of law."He expressed gratitude to the President, the Attorney General, and the Independent Selection Panel for their trust and confidence, committing to carry out his duties to the best of his ability.President H.E. Adama Barrow referred to the appointment of a Special Prosecutor as a “historic moment” in The Gambia's Transitional Justice journey, which aims to provide closure for the victims.The President emphasised the importance of the Special Prosecutor in upholding the rule of law, assuring that the process is not about “revenge or violence,” but rather “ensuring accountability.”He also reassured victims that his government recognises the gravity of their experiences and is committed to ensuring that justice is served.However, the President called for “patience, trust, and collective support” for the process while congratulating Barrister Hackett on his appointment to this vital position.Victims will now closely observe as justice finally reaches those responsible for some of the most brutal abuses inflicted upon them, their relatives, and their loved ones.

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PRESIDENT BARROW RECEIVES €5M FIRE EQUIPMENT DONATION FOR GAMBIA FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICES

The President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, on Thursday received firefighting equipment and other assorted materials worth five million euros for immediate distribution to the Gambia Fire and Rescue Services at a ceremony held at the State House.The equipment was donated by a Spanish NGO, "Start Up," which has longstanding ties with Gambia's security services, to strengthen the fire and rescue services and enable them to respond more effectively to emergencies.The equipment includes trucks, fire-fighting machinery, tanks, utility vehicles, hoses, welding machines, and bushfire-fighting tools.This firefighting equipment forms part of a long-standing partnership between the NGO 'Start Up," led by Sonia, and Gambia's security services, initiated in 2023.Sonia Sona Mariama, the president of the Star Up NGO, is explaining the functions of the donated equipment to the President H.E Adama Barrow. (PC: State House)However, this donation is the largest since the partnership began and is poised to significantly enhance operations at the Gambia Fire and Rescue Services, which handles emergency rescue situations involving fires and bushfires, among others.The President expressed his high appreciation for this recent donation, believing it highlights the importance of the partnership with the Spanish NGO.He described the Fire and Rescue Services as a vital part of the National Security apparatus and stated that this intervention will greatly bolster their capacity to respond to emergencies, especially in densely populated areas.This consignment also includes a 12,000-litre capacity tank, the largest in the GFRS inventory. Sonia agrees that this will greatly expand the fire service’s ability to tackle fires.The 12,000-litre capacity tank which is the largest in the Gambia Fire and Rescue Services inventory. (PC: State House)Chief Fire Officer Massaneh Bah described it as an “important partnership” that will transform his “security outfit' and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery.This donation also celebrates the fruitful partnership between 'Start Up' and the security services, offering a moment to reflect on future possibilities and opportunities.As an Honorary Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Sonia expressed optimism that this collaboration will continue, as both parties prepare for the next phase of the partnership—designing the civil protection system with the Ministry of Interior.The event was presided over by President Adama Barrow. The ceremony was also attended by the Interior Minister, Abdoulie Sanyang, senior officials of the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service, and donors from Spain. 

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LADY SARJO MOBILIZES HUNDREDS AT STATE HOUSE, VOWS TO LEAD PRESIDENT BARROW’S RE-ELECTION CAMPAIGN

Hundreds of members of the Lady Sarjo Mballow Barrow fans club visited her on Wednesday to show their support for her and President Adama Barrow at State House.The members represent numerous clubs across the country, which have adopted Lady Sarjo as their Honorary Mother in recognition of her contributions to national development and for serving as a positive example for women and girls.The purpose of the meeting was to introduce her to the members and their activities, and also to establish common ground as the political climate heats up ahead of the upcoming election later this year.The main organiser of this gathering is Sidi Dem, a prominent figure within political circles, known for his unwavering support and loyalty to President Barrow.Dem expressed gratitude to the members for responding to calls on short notice, describing it as “evidence of the love and affection” Gambians have for Lady Sarjo.He challenged all fan club members to rally behind President Barrow so that he can secure re-election with a comfortable majority. Dem also urged the women to engage with their constituents to increase political support for the President.This sentiment was echoed by regional representatives of the Lady Sarjo Fans club from the Upper River, West Coast, and North Bank regions. They all called for vigorous mobilisation of votes to deliver a landslide victory for the President in December.The speakers also praised Lady Sarjo, expressing admiration for her humility and peaceful nature as qualities that endear her to people both in The Gambia and beyond.Aja Haddijatou Jallow Jobe of Sinchu Alaji challenged the fans to use their influence to persuade more people to join the ranks of the NPP, which she describes as a development-focused and peaceful party.Nene Trawally of Brikama North tasked the fans with turning their words into action by voting for President Barrow to secure another five-year term. She emphasised that this victory would ensure the continuation of development across the country.She called on Lady Sarjo to be more “proactive in politics,” urging the fans to unite for the benefit of their Honorary Mother and to empower the President.The Chief of Brikama North, Mondo Jatta, reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the President's agenda, confidently predicting that the upcoming election is already decided and that the President will win by an “overwhelming majority.”He also warned against any attempts by the opposition to disrupt the registration process in Jalambang, affirming his intention to use the law to prevent interference.For the National Youth President of the NPP, Momodou Sabally, this was an unprecedented gathering, as it was the first event hosted by Lady Sarjo. He attributed this milestone to President Barrow's track record of development, which has made a significant impact nationwide.“He has built schools, brought electricity, and provided roads in remote communities, which encourages people to support President Barrow,” Sabally said.He confidently proclaimed that President Barrow would win the December presidential election, urging various groups within the fan club to work together to secure victory.Honourable Sidi S.K Njie thanked the members for their commendable initiative that could reshape politics in The Gambia.He spoke extensively about the President’s achievements in improving road infrastructure and electricity supply, describing these as “game changers” that have positively affected ordinary Gambians’ lives.He added that the President's vision is to “transform The Gambia into a city state,” and urged Gambians to “vote for continuity” under President Barrow's leadership.The gathering concluded with Lady Sarjo's speech, in which she described the turnout as a “great honour.” She expressed her gratitude to the organisers for a successful event, which she says has filled her with “happiness and humility.”She attributed her success to President Barrow, whom she praises as “development-oriented, peaceful and tolerant.”“After 9 years in power, you have all seen the development he has brought to this country,” Lady Sarjo stated, before urging her supporters to translate this love into votes for President Barrow.She called on women to lead the political campaign for his re-election, arguing that they stand to “benefit from the numerous development projects” in store.Finally, she pledged to play a more active role in politics, promising to lead her husband's re-election campaign this year.

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OUTGOING UNFPA REP, US EMBASSY DELEGATION MEET VP JALLOW AT STATE HOUSE

The Vice President, His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, hosted a meeting at State House with the UNFPA Country Representative, Ndéye Rose Sarr, along with a delegation from the U.S. Embassy in Banjul and Catholic Relief Services.As she approaches the conclusion of her four-year term as the UNFPA Country Representative in The Gambia, Ndéye Rose Sarr was the first to arrive at the Vice President's office for what may be her final visit in this capacity.After a closed-door meeting, Sarr explained that her purpose was to bid farewell to Vice President Jallow, as she will soon be departing from The Gambia. “I came to see the Vice President to say goodbye, to discuss programs, and to thank him for his support and leadership,” she stated.The outgoing UNFPA representative reflected on her tenure, acknowledging both the challenges faced and the achievements accomplished. “One of our significant successes was finalising the 2024 Population and Housing Census, which was conducted digitally,” she mentioned. “We also developed a demographic dividend, established a demographic dividend observatory, and worked tirelessly to ensure that women and girls have access to reproductive health and rights,” she added.Following Sarr, a delegation from the U.S. Embassy in Banjul and Catholic Relief Services arrived. Their discussion with Vice President Jallow focused on the school feeding program in The Gambia, which is being implemented by the Gambian government in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Catholic Relief Services.U.S. Charge d'Affaires Eugene S. Young expressed that they had spoken about the success of the program and their collaboration with the Gambian government, as well as future plans for the initiative. He further praised the strong relationship between the U.S. and the Gambian government, stating that they aim to assist the Gambian government in taking full responsibility for the feeding program. “We want to support the Gambian government through CRS to reach a point where this initiative is entirely their responsibility. We are working towards that goal to help the government become self-sustaining,” he emphasised.The U.S. government, through the Department of Agriculture, is investing $28 million in the first phase of a five-year school feeding program, which is expected to continue until 2027.

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VP JALLOW OPENS SCHOOL FEEDING FORUM, HIGHLIGHTS MASSIVE BUDGET INCREASE

The Vice President, His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow, has deputised the President, H.E. Adama Barrow, at the stakeholder engagement on the National School Feeding Forum at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre. The forum that aims to allow stakeholders to discuss the gains and challenges made so far in the school feeding initiative was attended by cabinet ministers, development partners, and key stakeholders in the education sector. Themed on Food for Education: Improving child health and educational outcomes, the initiative by the Gambia government through the Basic and Secondary Education ministry and their partners (CRS, USDA & Caritas) seeks to improve literacy rates, health and nutrition outcomes, all geared toward ensuring that children are supported and empowered to thrive in school. Delivering a statement on behalf of President Adama Barrow, Vice President Mohammed B.S Jallow said the government has demonstrated a strong commitment towards the school feeding programme with increased investment. “Public investment in school feeding has increased from GMD 30 million in 2019 to GMD 250 million in 2025/2026—an eightfold increase. This reflects our determination to build a sustainable, nationally owned programme.”“However, to achieve universal coverage by 2030, we must scale up investments and innovate new financing models,” he said.Investing in children who remain the most valuable asset of the nation is considered a move toward setting national development foundations right. Vice President Jallow further highlighted the impacts of the school feeding programme.“The impact of school feeding on education outcomes is both clear and compelling, and between 2021-2025, enrolment has increased by 17.2% and 10.4% for ECD and LBS respectively and total nationwide increase by 14.8%.”“More importantly, retention and completion rates are improving, particularly among vulnerable populations,” VP Jallow said.Dr Habibatou Drammeh, Minister for Basic and Secondary Education, commended the government for supporting the programme she described as a vital link in the education sector. “School feeding can catalyse broader socio-economic development, linking classrooms to farms and education outcomes to livelihoods.”“Equally significant is the strong and growing commitment of the government to financing the school feeding program over the years,” she said. Partners like the US government are key allies of the Gambia government in this initiative, for they provide vital support. Eugene Young,  US Charge d'Affaires in the Gambia, said the US and the Gambia share a mutual interest in the welfare of children. “This kind of partnership, which is practical and results-driven and focused on outcomes is exactly how the United States approaches development cooperation today.” “The United States and The Gambia shared mutual interest in seeing Gambian children well nourished, well educated, and prepared to build the future of this country,” he stated.This transformative programme targeting over 63,000 children across 186 schools will provide daily nutritious school meals, educational materials, and capacity building for teachers and communities. What started around 1970 as a donor support programme is now a fully government-controlled programme.

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PRESIDENT BARROW INAUGURATES LANDS, LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMISSIONS TO TACKLE DISPUTES, BOOST DECENTRALISATION

The President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, on Monday presided over the inauguration and swearing-in of members of the newly established Lands Commission and the Local Government Service Commission at a ceremony at State House.  The two Commissions, comprising veteran civil servants,  have the onerous task of strengthening land governance and management in the country as well as resolving disputes related to land. The Lands Commission is headed by Raymond Sock as Chairperson,  Kebba Njie, Babucarr Mbye, Abdoulie Manneh and  Juldeh Ceesay all as members. One after the other, they all took the two oaths of office and secrecy, conducted by the Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet, Momodou Dibba.They later signed the oath registry officially confirming their appointments. Four other officials were also sworn in to the newly established Local Government Service Commission. Former Police chief and Interior Minister Yankuba Sonko heads this Commission which also has Abdoulie Sallah, Saffie Lowe and Bahyda Hydara as members.They also took the prescribed oaths of office and secrecy,  before signing the oath book.Speaking on behalf of the two Commissions,  Raymond Sock expressed gratitude to the President for the trust and confidence reposed in them, and pledged to live up to expectations. The President described these vital institutions as “integral components of the governance process”  that will “reinforce and add value to the nation's land and local government structures.”He disclosed that the commission has a wide mandate which includes “modernising land records, resolving disputes,  promoting equitable access to land and aligning land management practices” with broader national development goals.On the creation of the local government service commission,  President Barrow said this Commission will “strengthen democracy and decentralisation” as it will operate at the level closest to the ordinary people.The President congratulated the Commissioners and thanked them for accepting this responsibility. As veteran civil servants who have served the government at the highest levels, President Barrow said the Commissioners have the “experience,  integrity and professionalism to deliver up to expectations.”He reassured that his government will give them all the support and encouragement to succeed,  and urged all stakeholders to work with the two Commissions to ensure “fair, impartial and equitable management of land.”

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