The head of the ECOWAS Election Observer Mission to the recently held National Assembly election Hon. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, praised the conduct of the polls calling them “peaceful and credible.”Dr. Chambas was at the State House to brief His Excellency, President Adama Barrow of his mission’s observation and findings during the elections. Dr. Chambas described The Gambia as a good example to the rest of the sub-region in the conduct of elections, stating; “The Gambia should be proud of itself”, for maintaining a reputation as a peaceful people, a peaceful country who have delivered a peaceful and credible election.
Continue Reading >>H.E President Adama Barrow’s Congratulatory Remarks on the National Assembly Elections Fellow Gambians,After weeks of intense political activities in the country, I am happy to congratulate all Gambians on the successful and peaceful conclusion of the National Assembly elections held on 9th April 2022. Exercising their rights in what was clearly very keenly contested legislative elections, Gambians made their choice of National Assembly representatives from an unprecedented number of candidates from political parties to Independent candidates. On behalf of my government and family, and on my own behalf, I express deep gratitude to all the peace-loving Gambians who contributed to this historic achievement. With warm sentiments, I also congratulate the Independent Electoral Commission, the security services, political parties, Observers, the media and all other stakeholders for the roles they played throughout the electoral process. The election of diverse political party representatives and independent candidates from different backgrounds is an indication of a vibrant democracy. Yet again, Gambians have fulfilled a vital constitutional mandate in an amicable manner, thus demonstrating that our democracy is thriving. It was another test of the credibility and viability of our institutions and the mechanisms and processes we are strongly determined to safeguard and strengthen. To our credit, as Gambians, we have got over the event with remarkable success. Fellow Gambians, during the political campaigns leading to the 2021 Presidential election and the recently concluded National Assembly elections, the citizens of this nation loudly expressed and showed their passion for efficient public services that would improve their lives and livelihoods. They have demonstrated the desire for stability, sustained good governance, and infrastructural development to boost the performance of all sectors. It is clear that our people wish to maintain an environment that is peaceful, stable, and secure enough for all citizens, which is one of the top priorities of my government. These aspirations can be achieved much faster if we work as a united force. In doing so, we need to be service-oriented and committed to the betterment of the people, strive to advance and strengthen our democracy, and observe the principles of peace and justice for all. These are essential elements for good governance and progress, which we cannot ignore. Ladies and gentlemen, based on party affiliation and trust for some independent candidates, Gambians have duly elected their representatives; none-the-less, we expect all the successful candidates to work together as a legislative body to promote and serve the national interest. At this point, I must congratulate all the successful candidates on their victories, and call on the remaining contestants to join forces with us and work in the best interest of the nation. The fact that you were eligible to contest is an achievement in itself. So, bravo to everyone! In a democracy, we must embrace diversity, and it is significant that, as a country, the Legislature works independently; however, it has to be in partnership with the Executive and the Judiciary to ensure that, jointly, we serve and fulfil the development aspirations of our citizens, within a just environment. Ladies and gentlemen, I expect all Gambians and non-Gambians alike to realise that these are challenging times. This is a period when global politics and instability continue to impact negatively on our local context. We must be ready, therefore, to take up the challenge of working harder, re-dedicating ourselves to duty, and committing enough time and resources to serve the nation, both in the public and private sectors. We are blessed with a youthful population and should explore and utilise its potential to the fullest. I will not conclude without emphasising the need for us to continue to nurture our democracy, protect all rights, and respect the freedom of association and speech, as required by law. As mature and cultured people, we must realise that, once elections end, we are duty-bound to unite and serve the country as one people. Whenever we exercise our political rights and compete in national elections, we do so as actors with different viewpoints, and not as enemies. It is now time to put behind us the divisive politics and hate speeches that seem to divide the nation. This is the time to re-energise ourselves for nation building so that every citizen becomes a winner. To reassure everyone, regardless of the results of the elections, the affairs of the entire country and the welfare of every citizen and resident here will remain central in my concerns and focus. Hand in hand, let us all move on.I pray for the continued peace, progress, prosperity, and security of our people. Long live The Gambia! I thank you for your attention.
Continue Reading >>Gambians have voted in a new legislature, thirty-three of them for the first time. NPP won 18 seats, UDP 15, NRP 4, PDOIS 2, and APRC 2. An unprecedented 12 seats are independent candidates. GDC, GMC, CA, and NUP did not win any seats. Out of the 19 women candidates, only three were elected
Continue Reading >>Gambians are voting to elect national assembly members of the 6th legislature five months after the Presidential elections. An unprecedented Two hundred and forty-six candidates are vying for fifty-three seats in the National Assembly. Eighty of them are independent candidates. Polls opened at 8 am and are expected to close at 5 pm. Reports across the country indicate that voting is peaceful but voter turnout is low compared to the presidential elections. President Adama Cast his ballot at the McCarthy Square in the Banjul Central constituency. He called on eligible Gambians to turn up to the polling stations and vote peacefully.
Continue Reading >>The Independent Electoral Commission on Wednesday conducted a briefing for election observer groups accredited to observe the National Assembly elections on Saturday. The briefing held in Bijilo discussed the modalities and preparedness of the election officials to conduct a hitch-free election. In his statement, the Chairman of IEC Alieu Momarr Njai, gave a rundown of the nomination process recording 251 candidates contesting the April 9 polls. Chairman Njie further informed the observers that measures are in place to ensure smooth, free, and credible elections. The Deputy inspector general of police Inspector Momodou Sowe gave an analysis of the current security.
Continue Reading >>The Center for Policy, Research, and Strategic Studies CEPRASS in partnership with the national endowment for democracy on Wednesday convened a day's opinion sharing session. The study on the country’s post-presidential election was shared with journalists, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders. The forum was held in Bakau. Speaking at the gathering CEPRASS executive director Lamin Dampha gave a background of the project and said opinion polls are useful in making decisions on critical issues. The president of Gambia Press Union Muhammed MS Bah dilated on the importance of media in the dissemination of results on opinion polls.The polls can be accessed on the CEPRASS website: www.ceprass.gm
Continue Reading >>The IEC Regional Office in Banjul has received nominations bids from seven aspiring candidates for the April 9th National Assembly elections. Three aspirants from PDOIS, three from UDP and one from PPP have successfully submitted nomination papers to the IEC IN Banjul on Thursday. They include Ousman Sillah of PDOIS for Banjul North who is seeking a second term in office. Baboucarr Mboge and Mansour Foon of PDOIS are vying for the parliamentary seats in Banjul Central and South respectively. Muhammed Ndow of the PPP is also contesting for the Banjul Central seat. Thursday's nominations process ended with the United Democratic Party (UDP). The party has chosen Momodou Cherno Jallow for Banjul Central, Momodou Lamin B. Bah for Banjul North and Yaya Kuyateh for Banjul South. Similar engagements are also taking place in all the other administrative regions.
Continue Reading >>The Independent Electoral Commission officials at Brikama have rejected the nomination of Momodou sabally for the Busumbala constituency. This is the first time an aspiring candidate’s nomination is rejected on the spot in the run-up to the 2022 parliamentary elections. The IEC rejected Sabally’s nomination citing section 90 (1) (e) of Gambia’s 1997 Constitution. It states that “A person found guilty of abuse of office, corruption, or any offense connected with public elections by a court or anyone found by a report of a commission of inquiry to be incompetent to hold public office because of having acquired assets unlawfully or defrauded the State would also be disqualified”It could be recalled that the Janneh Commission indicted Mr. Sabally for aiding and abetting the theft of D14, 686,500 in relation to Carnegie Mineral accounts.
Continue Reading >>Five National People's Party and one independent aspiring candidate filed nomination bids on day five of nominations in Kanifing Municipality. NPP's Amadou S. Leigh is vying for the Serrekunda constituency, Assan Dampha for Bakau and a former parliamentarian for LK Sabiji Saikou Marong who is seeking re-election submitted necessary documents to IEC officials in Serrekunda. The fifth day of nominations also saw NPP aspiring candidates Fatoumatta K. Jawara of Talinding, Mustapha Lowe of Serrekunda West constituency, and one independent candidate, Ansu Camara of Serrekunda East had their credentials accepted by the Independent Electoral Commission's returning officers in Serrekunda. Another independent candidate Ibrahim Savage was asked to return on Friday after failing to present some major documents.The documents are pending scrutiny after which IEC's Joseph Colley says the aspirants will be given their acceptance letter by Thursday if all their documents are intact after the verification.Speaking to the press after submitting their credentials, all the candidates say they will win in April parliamentary elections.
Continue Reading >>The Leader of the Gambia Moral Congress (GMC) Mai Ahmed Fatty has presented his nomination papers to the Independent Electoral Commission in Basse Mansajang in URR. Mr. Fatty is contesting for the Wuli West National Assembly seat. He told waiting journalists that he is the choice of the people. Ebrima Conteh of the GMC also presented his documents for Wuli East Constituency. Mr. Conteh said was contesting because the people of his constituency were neglected for so many years. He promised to bring development to his constituency if given the chance. Meanwhile, IEC officials handed over an acceptance receipt to Hon Alhagie H.Sowe of The Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC).
Continue Reading >>Only one aspiring candidate from the lower Saloum Constituency appeared before election officials in the central river region on nomination day one. The All people's Party's Ebou K. Gaye arrived at the regional Independent electoral office to present his credentials for the April 6th National assembly elections. Gaye's nomination papers were quickly accepted, allowing IEC officials to vet his credentials pending a public scrutiny. APRC and ANRD party were also expected to present Nomination bids but the two parties didn't file any candidate in the Central River Region.After presenting his documents, Gaye told waiting journalists that he is the right candidate to represent Lower Saloum Constituency. He claimed to have the will and capacity needed for the job.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow has congratulated the people of Niamina on the laying of the foundation stone for the construction of a 20.5 km road that will connect dozens of villages across the vast district. The President made this announcement during a meeting with three communities in Mali Kunda, Niamina West.After decades of unfulfilled promises, the people of Niamina are finally witnessing a significant development as President Barrow laid the foundation stone for the road at a ceremony in Choya, Niamina West. This event marks a historic milestone for the community.During the meeting in Mali Kunda, residents warmly welcomed the President and expressed their gratitude for what they describe as “the most important development in their lives.”Gelajo Jallow, the Alkalo of Mali Kunda, expressed deep emotions as he recalled the long wait for this road to be constructed. He stated that this event represents “the happiest day of his life.” The Alkalo pointed out that the “poor road conditions have been utilised by the opposition to criticise the government, but now that the President has laid the foundation stone, it will put that issue to rest and convince the people of Niamina that the National People's Party (NPP) is development-oriented.”This sentiment was shared by all the residents of Niamina who spoke at the meeting. Mamadu Jallow, the youth representative; Chief Ngagne Danfa of Niamina Dankunku; and Oumie Ceesay, the women’s representative, all acknowledged the various developments that have positively impacted Niamina.They agreed that this road project is unprecedented, being the most significant need of the community. With electricity and water now accessible, the speakers commended President Barrow for this bold initiative. They pledged to ensure a “massive victory for the NPP in the upcoming Presidential election in December,” as the overwhelming majority of people recognise the value of this new development.Sulayman Sawaneh, Chairman of the Janjanbureh Area Council, recalled his childhood days of walking this challenging road to reach school, describing those experiences as a “difficult chapter in his life.” Like others, he expressed profound gratitude to President Barrow for keeping his promise.For Honourable Samba Jallow, the National Assembly Member for Niamina Dankunku, this event is the happiest day of his life, marking the end of many years of waiting. “This is a proud day for me because this road has been our biggest nightmare. It will now cement my legacy,” he added.Honourable Jallow reflected on how the road has been a political talking point but noted that “even the opposition will acknowledge this as a turning point in the development of Niamina.”Governor Ousman Bah of the Central River Region (CRR) stated, “This project is the result of a meticulous strategy by the government to respond to the needs of the people.” He emphasised that CRR has received “its fair share of development under President Barrow,” a sentiment that resonates with the residents. He urged the people of the region to “carefully weigh their options and vote for continuity.”Honourable Borom Sowe of Niamina West also expressed his happiness and gratitude to President Barrow, noting that this project will “strengthen his legacy.”Sulayman Sumareh, the Director General of the National Roads Authority, revealed that over the last five days, President Barrow has laid “15 foundation stones” for the construction of “900 km of roads in the Upper River and Central River Regions.” He credited this success to “President Barrow's leadership qualities, foresight, and charisma.”In his keynote address, President Adama Barrow described Mali Kunda as a “historic village in Niamina,” emphasising the strategic and symbolic nature of the meeting's location. He paid tribute to the elders, men, women, and youth of Niamina for their strong turnout, which reflects their love and support.The President praised the First Lady for her efforts in complementing the work of his government, revealing that her foundation has already invested “D27 million in an Accident and Emergency ward at Bansang Hospital, the first of its kind in the provinces.”He added that the “First Lady’s Foundation is also building three maternity wards for D30 million to support safe deliveries at three health facilities in the country.” These initiatives, according to President Barrow, “underscore the First Lady's commitment to Gambian women.”Discussing the road's potential impact on Niamina, President Barrow said, “This is the fulfilment of a promise made to the people.” He remarked, “My opponents have always doubted me, but I always deliver on my promises, much to their disappointment.”The President reassured the people of Niamina that they will receive everything they have lacked for the past 50 years, citing the provision of electricity and water as examples. He challenged the community to “critically assess the politicians who come to them.”
Continue Reading >>His Excellency Adama Barrow laid the foundation stone for the construction of additional feeder roads in the Central River Region North on Monday, aimed at linking remote communities. He laid the groundwork for 50 kilometres of roads in Jarumeh Koto, Wassu, and Nyanga Bantang.The President laid the first block for a 12-kilometre road that will connect the communities of Jarumeh Koto, Manna, Salikenni, Jarumeh Kuta, and Kayai. These areas depend heavily on agriculture as their primary source of income, and this road will serve as the main corridor for access to these inland communities. Residents have expressed optimism about the road's construction, especially given the poor condition of existing roads during the rainy season.Just a few kilometres from Jarumeh Koto, President Barrow also laid the foundation stone for another significant road beginning at the highway and extending through swampy areas to Barajali Tenda, the birthplace of the first President, Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara. This road will traverse Kuntaur, Jakaba, and Niani Sukuta, regions known for year-round rice production. The road primarily accommodates horse carts that transport passengers and goods from the main market, or "Lumo," in Wassu.The President's laying of the foundation stone has generated excitement among residents, who view this project as the first step toward alleviating their long-standing hardships. Currently, the only means of transport to Wassu is via horse carts, and women in the area have shared that they often have to walk several kilometres to reach the main road.“In the rainy season, there are no vehicles or horse carriages because the road is inaccessible, bad and muddy,” the women lamented. This challenging situation makes life very difficult, but these developments have brought renewed hope to the people of Kuntaur. The road under construction will cover over 16 kilometres from Wassu through Jakaba, Kuntaur, Niani, Sukuta, to Barajally Tenda.In Nyanga Bantang, located in Niani District, community elders, including the Alkalolu and Imams of Bagadaji, Jailan, and Safalu, attended the historic ceremony, which will see the construction of a 10.8-kilometre road from Nyanga Bantang to Bagadaji. Similar to other communities, residents are celebrating this development, considering it the “beginning of a new chapter in their lives.” Aja Nanding Jabbie, a resident of Bagadaji, described the road as the “single biggest development that has the potential to open up the village to the outside world.”President Barrow concluded the event by placing the last stone at Wassu for the 10-kilometre road to Kataba Omar Ndaw and Kataba Serign, bringing the total road construction to nearly 50 kilometres in the Central River Region North. Similar activities are planned for the Central River Region South.
Continue Reading >>The President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, on Saturday laid the foundation stone for the construction of 85 km of roads in three districts of the Upper River Region. The "Connect Gambia infrastructure projects," as it is dubbed, aims to build strategic feeder roads across 22 settlements in Tumana, Jimara, and Kantora, as part of the government's drive to decentralise development and reach remote communities.The President launched the "Connect Gambia infrastructure project" at Julangel, laying the foundation stone for an 11.2 km road linking Mankamang Kunda, Julangel, Sare Musa, Sare Wollom, and Banna Tenda, all in Jimara. The project will transform the dusty road, which serves as vital access for residents struggling to reach the main road.This development has already stirred excitement among residents living in these villages, such as Bully Jaiteh, a 73-year-old resident of Julangel, who describes it as “transformative and progressive.”Bully Camara owns a tricycle, which he uses to traverse these villages and transport goods. He believes this new road will have a positive impact on young people like him, as it reduces maintenance costs and expands accessibility. He is grateful to the President for this intervention, which now brings development home.The President made a brief stop at the Dampha Kunda-Tambasansang road to assess progress. He stated that roads are very important and that his government is “exploiting innovative financing strategies” to deliver its ambitious projects.President Barrow further stated that these projects mark the beginning of a 1,500-kilometre road programme, and that once completed, “the Gambia will have become a middle-income economy.”He also visited the Governor's residence and office complex in Basse, which is undergoing vital infrastructural improvements to align with modern standards as part of the government's decentralisation strategy.Another strategically important road is the 23.2 km route from Kaba Kama in Basse, passing through several villages to Giroba in Fulladu East. This road is virtually inaccessible during the rainy season when it becomes inundated with floodwaters. Residents describe this as the biggest development they could imagine in their lifetime.For the young and old, men and women, the laying of the foundation stone for this project represents a historic opportunity that will change lives and establish a corridor to end their isolation during the rains.Momodou Camara, who is physically challenged, shares that, like other residents, the road conditions during the rainy season are his biggest nightmare as he becomes virtually grounded and unable to move around. This proposed project offers a new chance for him to go about his life unimpeded.Further down in Bassending, Modou Lamin Joof is already celebrating, standing on a part of the road that he says turns into a swamp from July to November, when his motorbike is his only means of transport.In Suduwol, the President received an enthusiastic welcome from the residents, who celebrated as he laid the foundation stone for the 24 km road to the border settlement of Nyamanari through Missira Ba Mariama.This road holds strategic significance, as it is the main corridor for vehicular traffic to the sub-region. Every day, hundreds of vehicles travel this route as they enter or leave The Gambia en route to Senegal, Mali, Guinea-Bissau, and Sierra Leone. Consequently, its construction will enhance The Gambia's position as a hub for sub-regional trade. Such development, residents believe, will create opportunities for Gambians, boost trade, and facilitate movement.Overall, the people of Suduwol and the wider district of Kantora have expressed their gratitude to the President for this bold initiative, which demonstrates his personal commitment to improving the lives of ordinary Gambians.Similar scenes were repeated in Tinkinjo, a small community just a few kilometres from the Basse Fatoto Highway. The President, accompanied by officials, laid the foundation stone marking the official start of nearly 27 km of road linking Tinkinjo, Sanunding, Dingiring, Madina Samako, and Diabugu Ba Sillah.These feeder roads connecting off-road communities are regarded as revolutionary by residents, who for the first time feel their impact. Roads are seen as the missing link in the development paradigm that has already seen the provision of electricity, water, schools, and health facilities.
Continue Reading >>Banjul, The Gambia – May 17, 2026In a landmark moment for sports diplomacy and international cooperation, the Wrestling Federation of the Republic of The Gambia and the Canary Islands (Spain) Wrestling Federation (Federación de Lucha Canaria) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting traditional wrestling as a powerful platform for cultural exchange, youth empowerment, education and sustainable social development.The agreement was signed during the closing ceremony of the prestigious 14th ECOWAS African Wrestling Tournament (TOLAC 2026), one of the region’s most important sporting and cultural events, held at the Serrekunda East Mini Stadium in The Gambia. The championship concluded with a full house throughout the three-day event and was celebrated as a resounding success, attracting thousands of spectators, international delegations, and sports authorities from across West Africa.The strategic partnership unites both wrestling federations in a collaborative alliance focused on strengthening institutional cooperation, athlete development, technical training and international exchange programs.The official ceremony was attended by senior Gambian government officials, including Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, Minister of Youth and Sports; Hon. Mod K. Ceesay, Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment; and Hon. Baboucarr Bouy, Minister of Public Service, Administrative Reforms, Policy Coordination and Delivery.Representing The Gambia, the agreement was signed by Matar Saine, President of the national wrestling federation, while Sonja Arup, Ambassador-at-Large of The Gambia and President of NGO STARUP, signed on behalf of the Canary Island Wrestling Federation, which was represented by its President, Francisco Rivero Vega.Institutional leaders and organisers highlighted the decisive role played by Sonja Arup following months of diplomatic coordination and technical negotiations that made the agreement possible. Her efforts were widely recognised as instrumental in establishing a long-term framework of cooperation between The Gambia and the Canary Islands focused on sports education, youth exchange, community empowerment and international collaboration through traditional wrestling.The Memorandum establishes an ambitious roadmap for cooperation centred on the technical and academic training of coaches, referees and sports administrators; the development of athlete and youth exchange initiatives; the organisation of international sporting and cultural events; and the promotion of research projects related to sport, health, education and heritage preservation.The agreement also places strong emphasis on gender equality, social inclusion, the participation of persons with disabilities and the prevention of violence in sport, reinforcing traditional wrestling as a powerful tool for social cohesion, peacebuilding and human development.The signing coincided with the successful conclusion of the TOLAC Wrestling Championship, which since Friday, May 15, transformed the Serrekunda East Mini Stadium into the epicentre of African traditional wrestling. Delegations from eleven West African nations, including Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Benin and Togo, participated in the championship, generating enormous enthusiasm among Gambian fans and visitors from across the region.Widely regarded as one of West Africa’s most important sporting and cultural showcases, TOLAC 2026 once again demonstrated the extraordinary potential of traditional wrestling to strengthen regional integration, celebrate African cultural identity and inspire the next generation of young athletes.Organisers also emphasised the championship’s remarkable social impact and exceptional public participation, as the three-day event combined elite-level wrestling competitions with cultural exhibitions, educational activities and community programs designed to reinforce friendship, unity and cooperation among ECOWAS member states. The event concluded with a completely packed stadium and overwhelming public support, consolidating TOLAC 2026 as one of the most successful editions of the tournament.With the signing of this Memorandum, both federations open a new chapter in international sports cooperation, aspiring to transform traditional wrestling into a global platform for cultural dialogue, sports diplomacy and sustainable development, while strengthening relations between The Gambia and the Canary Islands (Spain).
Continue Reading >>On the sidelines of his provincial tour where he laid the foundation stone for the construction of nearly 800km of feeder roads in the Upper River Region, President H.E Adama Barrow held a meeting in Wuli Foday Kunda to raise awareness on his "connect Gambia infrastructure projects " which seeks to construct 1500km of roads across the country. The initiative, which underscores his commitment to infrastructural development seeks to link remote communities, enhance access and spur economic growth. Outside the village, residents kept a carnival atmosphere welcoming the motorcade with much fanfare and excitement. The President arrived at a heroes' reception with residents flooding the meeting grounds for yet another show of support and appreciation for his massive development efforts that have transformed this region.The Alkalo of Foday Kunda Hameh Singhateh set the stage by acknowledging the tremendous impact of these projects on the lives of the people. “Wuli had been one of the most disadvantaged regions in the past, but thanks to President Barrow, the road has been constructed to standard and this has made travel easier.” The next phase of these developments, Alkalo Singhateh added, has truly shown President Barrow's “approach to development as more than just lip service.” He thanked the Gambian leader for the bold initiative, noting that the construction of these feeder roads will further “empower rural communities.”These sentiments were shared by Nafa Jabai who enumerated the numerous development projects undertaken by President Barrow over the last 9 years. From road infrastructure, health care, and education to Agriculture, Mr Jabai noted that President Barrow has already “left his mark and cemented his legacy” as one of the most progressive leaders in The Gambia's history. He recalled the difficulties communities endured in the past when access to these areas was virtually impossible due to the bad road conditions.Saikouna Bajaha, a prominent NPP member from Bajaha Kunda argued that Wuli owes President Barrow a “debt of gratitude” for his “unprecedented developments that have improved the lives of the people.” The road projects in the region, Mr Bajaha noted, have opened up the region and provided a vital link to the main provincial town of Basse. He called on the people to “register for the upcoming election and vote massively for President Barrow,” to enable him to continue more impactful developments.Several other speakers, such as Mamadou Jallow, the President of the livestock owners association, Jainaba Sowe and Fatumata Saho, the women representatives, acknowledged the impact of President Barrow's developments across the country and reassured him of their votes to secure another mandate. The Chairman of the Basse Area Council, Muhammed Ceesay, spoke of the difficult days in the past when the only means of access in the area was motorbike transport. This state of affairs, Ceesay added meant “limited opportunities for communities who endured hours on dusty roads and unreliable ferry services.” With the advent of the Barrow government, the area council Chairman noted communities now have “access to electricity, water and roads.” He reassured President Barrow that the region is “politically secure for the NPP,” predicting a landslide victory for the party.This assessment was shared by the National Assembly Member Honourable Ebrima Jaiteh who described the 400km road projects as “unprecedented.” He described Barrow as the right man for the job as he delivers development that is both impactful and inclusive.Governor Samba Bah of the Upper River Region, urged unity amongst the people to empower President Barrow as he undertakes another ambitious chapter of infrastructural development. He also thanked the women and youth for their support, urging them to nurture peace and stability.The Minister of Musa Drammeh advised communities to “abandon the opposition as they offer no meaningful development to the people.” He reminded them of the President's development track record over the last 9 years and appealed for more support to enable him to continue for another five years.The meeting also witnessed the defection of several people who claimed to be members of the opposition into the ranks of the ruling National People's Party. They were formally introduced by the firebrand NPP militant Du Sano who has been very influential in dismantling the opposition's support in the Upper River Region.The meeting climaxed with President Barrow's address in which he spoke of Barrow Kunda as the cradle of his political rise. He described the meeting as a homecoming that reminded him of the history in which he forged a solid political path that has now made him a great politician in The Gambia.He, however, reminded Wuli of the past difficult periods of their lives when they lacked basic road infrastructure and struggled to commute to Basse. “Now you have first-class roads that have opened up your communities,” President Barrow told his audience.The President used the platform to attack his opponents, dismissing the idea of a coalition as “unworkable” and only “intended to propel his political godfather to power.”He appealed to the masses not to “trade the NPP for any opposition political party,” as he is “development-oriented and focused on the bigger picture.” He concluded by calling for peace, tolerance and restraint amongst his supporters, before finally making one bold prediction that he will defeat the opposition if they form a coalition against him.
Continue Reading >>The President H.E Adama Barrow, on Saturday, commissioned the 12km Brufut-Madiana, Banyaka-Kunkujang, Mariama-Tujereng road at a grand ceremony held at the Madiana football grounds. The road is part of his administration's efforts to improve connectivity, support economic transformation, expand access to services, and strengthen rural communities. The construction of this vital road ends decades of isolation and deprivation for residents in the area.A warm reception was organised for President HE Adama Barrow and the First Lady Fatumata Bah Barrow upon their arrival for the inauguration of the 12km road linking Brufut, Madiana, Banyaka, Kunkujang, Mariama, and Tujereng. Thousands of residents from these settlements gathered at the Madiana school grounds to witness this historic occasion.This road is one of the most strategic in Kombo South, providing access to 80,000 people who commute daily to urban centres.For the residents here, its construction is a “dream come true” and the “beginning of a new life” after decades of isolation.The Alkalo of Madiana, Sanusi Manneh, expressed joy and happiness following this project. He noted that residents struggled to travel between Madiana and Brufut, especially during the rainy season when floods, mud, and potholes made passage impossible.Junkung Badjie, the Village Development Committee Chairman, recalled that passage through this road was “virtually impossible due to its bad state.” “Now we can move with ease at any time of the year thanks to the intervention of the President,” Junkung added.“The benefits this road brings to these communities are immeasurable,” said Sally Camara, the women's representative, noting that women “endured untold difficulties in the past to make the 10-minute journey to Brufut or Serekunda to access markets, health facilities, schools and other services.”On behalf of all the women in the area, Sally conveyed profound gratitude to President Barrow for bringing infrastructural development to ordinary people. She challenged the people of Kombo South, particularly women, to “vote for the President as a gesture of gratitude.”Other speakers, including the regional chairman of the West Coast Region, Lamin Jamba Jammeh; the chief of Sanimentereng, Momodou Bojang; and the Governor of the West Coast Region, Ousman Bojang, highlighted the importance of road infrastructure in unlocking the region’s economic potential, noting that roads “connect communities and people, and also enhance access to markets and services.”For a region rich in agriculture, fishing, mining, and tourism, the speakers expressed optimism that this development would “significantly impact the economy, create employment opportunities, and empower women and youth.” They also urged the communities to safeguard the road and ensure its durability, safety, and sustainability.Director General of the National Roads Authority, Sulayman Sumareh, disclosed that the government initially planned a “targeted intervention at the Madiana bridge but later decided to construct the 12km road after the President issued a directive to cover the entire stretch from Brufut to Tujereng.”The ceremony also saw the defection of 148 people from the opposition to the NPP, a development organisers described as a significant blow to their base in Kombo South. The construction of this strategic road has convinced many, especially opposition members, that President Barrow is committed to development and progress.In his inauguration address, President Barrow described the event as a “historic milestone that underscores his government's commitment to inclusive development,” stating that the road will transform the lives and livelihoods of the people of Brufut, Madiana, Banyaka, Kunkujang Mariama, Tujereng, and beyond.The President reaffirmed that “infrastructural development remains the core priority of his government,” as outlined in the recovery-focused National Development Plan YIRIWA, which emphasises that “roads are indispensable in the quest for sustained socio-economic growth.”He reassured Gambians that “the government will continue to fund projects from local resources as a means to promote self-reliance and drive development.” He called on all stakeholders, including communities, drivers, and commuters, to take good care of this national asset to ensure it serves its intended purpose.The President dismissed criticism of his infrastructural initiatives, which aim to empower communities, describing the opposition as “desperate and lacking in focus.”He vowed to “defeat them massively in the December election,” adding that “Gambians appreciate his development efforts” which have impacted every community across the country. With these bold promises, the President left Madiana, but for the residents, this historic event marks the beginning of a new era of development and inclusion after many years of hardship and suffering.
Continue Reading >>
