Next on TV

Tonight GRTS 8pm NEWS

More
News Sport Lifestyle Travel & Tourism Culture Politics
Next on TV

Tonight 7:00pm

News Stories

News First slide

AFRICA'S FORESTRY AND WILDLIFE UNDER SPOTLIGHT AS GAMBIA HOSTS KEY CONFERENCE

The Gambia has taken a significant step in promoting sustainable forest and wildlife management in Africa by hosting the 25th Session of the African Forestry and Wildlife Commission and the Ninth African Forestry and Wildlife Week in Banjul. The conference, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, brought together government officials and around 200 delegates from 47 African countries to discuss the continent's most pressing forestry and wildlife challenges and opportunities.With the theme "Innovative and Inclusive Forest and Wildlife Resources Management for Africa," the five-day conference aims to explore ways to address the major problems facing Africa's tropical forests, including forest degradation, commercial logging, and ineffective government policies in environmental protection. African forests are rich in biodiversity and provide a livelihood for over 1 billion people, according to experts.The Gambia's Vice President, Mohammed B.S. Jallow, who presided over the opening ceremony, called on partners to continue supporting African countries in their wildlife management efforts. "I call on our development partners, international organisations, civil society, and the private sector, to continue supporting African countries in advancing sustainable forest and wildlife management," he said.VP Jallow highlighted the Gambia's progress in protecting endangered species, saying that forest degradation has been "slowed, while reforestation is on the increase." He attributed this success to the government's efforts to expand protected areas, enforce regulations, and combat illegal hunting, poaching, and wildlife trafficking.This conference is a testament to The Gambia's leadership in conservation, sustainable land use, and environmental governance. Key stakeholders, including the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the United Nations, have expressed their commitment to supporting the country's efforts."FAO stands firm in supporting Member States to advance national priorities, mobilise resources, and ensure that forestry, wildlife protection, and climate action remain central to sustainable development and the 2030 Agenda," said Ms Moshibudi Rampedi, FAO Representative in The Gambia.The convergence will provide a platform for delegates to exchange ideas and build a stronger, more coherent African response to environmental shocks. With Africa losing about “4 million hectares of forest every year,” the stakes are high, and the need for collective action is urgent.Gambia's Environment Minister, Rohey Jonh Manjang, emphasised the government's commitment to protecting forests and wildlife, saying, "Through the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, we have intensified efforts to restore degraded lands, enforce anti-logging laws, and halt the export of timber."The conference is expected to yield concrete recommendations and actions to address the challenges facing Africa's forestry and wildlife sectors and promote sustainable development on the continent.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

PRESIDENT BARROW ATTENDS 81ST ANNIVERSARY OF SENEGALESE RIFLEMAN MASSACRE

President Adama Barrow has arrived in Dakar to join other African leaders in commemorating the 81st anniversary of the tragic massacre of Senegalese riflemen by French colonial forces in 1944. The ceremony, which honours the memory of over 300 riflemen who lost their lives fighting for France's liberation during World War II, will take place at a military camp in Thiaroye.Upon arrival, President Barrow was received by Senegalese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cheikh Niang, and The Gambia's High Commissioner in Senegal, H.E. Hadrameh Sidibeh. A ceremonial band played the National Anthem, and President Barrow reviewed the Guard of Honour mounted by the Senegalese Armed Forces.The Gambian leader is accompanied by a high-powered delegation, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Serign Modou Njie, and Minister and Chief of Staff at the Presidency, Mod Ceesay. This significant event serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by African soldiers in the fight for freedom and highlights the strong ties between The Gambia and Senegal.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

BREAKING: SANNA MANJANG, FORMER JUNGLERS MEMBER, ARRESTED IN SENEGAL 

The Government of the Gambia, through the Ministry of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, has announced the arrest of Sanna Manjang, a former member of the Gambia Armed Forces, who has been implicated in serious human rights violations during the rule of former President Yahya Jammeh. Below is the full press release:“The Government of The Gambia informs the public that Sanna Manjang, a former member of the Junglers who has been implicated in serious human rights violations during the administration of former President Yahya Jammeh, was apprehended in the early hours of this morning in the Casamance Region of southern Senegal.This arrest is the result of a coordinated security operation between the authorities of the Republic of Senegal and The Gambia. The two sister countries have worked closely together in recent months to locate Mr Manjang, who has been a fugitive since January 2017.Mr Manjang is named in the findings of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission for his central role in torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings carried out by the Junglers. His arrest represents a significant step in the ongoing pursuit of justice and accountability for victims of abuses committed under the former regime.Arrangements are underway for his repatriation to The Gambia, where he will be processed in accordance with the law.The Government reaffirms its unwavering commitment to justice, accountability and the protection of the rights and security of all persons within The Gambia. It further assures the public that the stability, peace and security of the country will never be compromised.The Government expresses its deep appreciation to the Government of Senegal for its continued cooperation and solidarity in matters of regional security and justice.The public will be kept informed as this process advances.”

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

GAMBIA'S NGOs GEAR UP TO FIGHT MONEY LAUNDERING AND TERROR FINANCING

The NGO Affairs Agency, in partnership with Spaces for Change (West Africa), has launched a comprehensive two-day training on Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) for Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in The Gambia. The training aims to empower NGOs with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate AML/CFT regulations and promote a culture of transparency and accountability.According to stakeholders, the seminar will "augment NGOs' understanding of compliance requirements, fortify institutional governance, cultivate transparency and accountability" within the sector. Participants will also discuss strategies to protect against money laundering and outline plans to implement robust internal controls."NGOs must prioritise transparency and accountability to prevent financial abuse and protect the sector's integrity," said Alagie Jammeh, Deputy Director and Legal Advisor at the Financial Intelligence Unit of The Gambia. The event was attended by a diverse group of stakeholders, including diplomats, security officials, and representatives from various ministries.The training is part of efforts to strengthen the capacities of NGOs in The Gambia and ensure they remain trusted agents of development and growth.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

THE GAMBIA'S SECURITY SITUATION IS CALM, SAYS SIS DIRECTOR GENERAL

Ousman Sowe, the Director General of the Gambia's State Intelligence Service has said the general security situation in the country is “calm, and there is no need for any undue alarm in the country,” not for the month of November nor any time soon thereafter.DG Sowe was speaking during a media briefing on Friday following the conclusion of his latest countrywide security assessment tour. The three-week tour saw the delegation engaged in numerous discussions with regional authorities, traditional and opinion leaders, youths, as well as engagements with sister services.  Addressing some of the main issues emanating from the tour, DG Sowe informed the members of the press that the assessment of the general security situation of the country is rated as “calm and peaceful.”The ongoing institutional reforms through capacity-building programs also featured prominently in the SIS Director General's engagement with the media.He said the reform agenda revolves around the need to “refocus the Service's operational improvement”, including “smart and professional deployments,” providing “credible and actionable intelligence products”, and expanding the State Intelligence Service's engagements with international partners. This is a reformed intelligence outfit, and that is evident in its outlook, engagements and operations since 2017. For the members of the media, this open day with the SIS is another indication of the renewed collaboration and another significant step in promoting the trust-building efforts between the media and the security services.

Continue Reading >>
  • GRTS
  • November 28, 2025 09:13
News First slide

WORLD CHILDREN'S DAY SPARKS FRESH COMMITMENT TO CHILD SAFETY AND WELL-BEING

SOS Children's Village The Gambia, commemorated World Children’s Day with a renewed call for societies to prioritise the "rights, safety, and well-being of children worldwide." Observed annually, the day serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility shared by governments, communities, and institutions to safeguard children from harm while ensuring access to opportunities that nurture their full potential. A march-past by banner-wielding and chanting schoolchildren, teachers, youth advocates, and child-rights organisations on the streets of Bakoteh, marked the start of the commemorations and created an atmosphere of unity and determination. This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Listen to the Future and Stand Up for Children’s Rights,” a message that urges stakeholders to place children at the centre of decision-making processes.Fatima N. Jarju of the Children's National Assembly encouraged her fellow children to “speak up, stay confident, and support one another.”There were calls for stronger protections, better educational opportunities, and increased representation of children in national dialogue.Jean Pierre Kouamin, National Director of SOS Children’s Villages, encouraged children to stay “hopeful and committed to their dreams” while urging parents, communities, and institutions to “redouble efforts to ensure children are safe, nurtured, and empowered.”Children performed a play centred on the realities many young people face, including abuse, neglect, and the struggle for basic rights. The goal was to highlight the importance of “protection systems and community support.” The captivating play also served the dual purpose of entertainment and advocacy.Dillo Bah, the Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare, described children as the “heartbeat of the nation,” stressing that their welfare is “central to national development.” Jallow urged communities to “strengthen” their role in child protection. He appealed for “renewed dedication to building safer neighbourhoods,” adding that children depend on the “efforts of everyone around them.”The energy and enthusiasm demonstrated by the children set an inspiring tone for the rest of the programme. It illustrates how powerful young voices can be when amplified and supported.This year’s World Children’s Day commemorations in The Gambia, concluded with “renewed” hope and a “strong call” for action. Stakeholders acknowledged that the future “belongs to children—and that society must be willing to listen, invest, and stand up for their rights at every turn.”

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

ECOWAS Slams Guinea-Bissau Coup, Demands Restoration of Constitutional Order

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Mediation and Security Council (MSC) has “strongly condemned the coup d'etat in Guinea-Bissau,” calling for the “unconditional restoration of constitutional order.”The MSC, which met virtually on November 27, 2025, under the chairmanship of Sierra Leone's President Julius Maada Bio, expressed “deep concern” over the unfolding political crisis in Guinea-Bissau.The council demanded that the “coup leaders respect the will of the people” and allow the National Electoral Commission to “declare the results” of the November 23, 2025, presidential and parliamentary elections without delay. ECOWAS also called for the “immediate release of detained officials,” including President Umaro Sissoco Embalo.In response to the crisis, ECOWAS has “suspended Guinea-Bissau from its decision-making bodies until constitutional order is restored.” A high-level mediation mission, led by the Chair of the Authority, will “engage with the coup leaders to ensure the restoration of constitutional order.” The mission will comprise several West African presidents, including Faure Gnassingbe of Togo, Jose Maria Pereira Neves of Cabo Verde, and Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal.The MSC has also ordered the ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ESSMGB) to continue “protecting citizens and stabilising the situation.” “ECOWAS has reserved the right to impose sanctions on Guinea-Bissau for disrupting the electoral and democratic process.”

Continue Reading >>
  • GRTS
  • November 27, 2025 11:02
News First slide

𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐁𝐈𝐀 GOVERNMENT 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐌𝐍𝐒 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐘 𝐓𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑 𝐈𝐍 𝐆𝐔𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐀 𝐁𝐈𝐒𝐒𝐀𝐔

The government of The Gambia, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has issued a press release to condemn the military takeover in Guinea-Bissau. The government described it “as an outright assault on the democratic values cherished by the people of Guinea-Bissau.” Below is the full release:“𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐋, 𝟐𝟕𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓: The Government of the Republic of The Gambia condemns the military coup d’etat in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau. This unconstitutional taking over of power is an outright assault on the democratic values cherished by the people of Guinea-Bissau and negatively affects the electoral process following the peaceful conduct of the Presidential and Legislative elections on 23rd November 2025.The Government of The Gambia expresses profound shock and deep concern over this attempt to overturn the will of the people. The Gambia considers this action a blatant violation of shared democratic principles and an unfortunate setback to the hard-earned progress made by the government and people of Guinea-Bissau and the ECOWAS region in democracy and constitutional rule.The Gambia, therefore, calls for the immediate restoration of constitutional order in Guinea-Bissau and urges all stakeholders to remain calm, exercise maximum restraint, respect the democratic process and stand firm together for peace and unity, allowing the people's choice and will to guide the nation's future.Furthermore, the Government of The Gambia calls for the security and fundamental rights of all citizens and foreign nationals in Guinea Bissau, including ECOWAS Election Observers and officials be safeguarded and guaranteed.The Government and people of the Republic of The Gambia continue to stand in solidarity with Guinea Bissau during these difficult times and pray that Allah the Almighty bless the efforts being made to bring peace to this great country.”

Continue Reading >>
  • GRTS
  • November 27, 2025 10:15
News First slide

GIRAV DELIVERS DIGITAL TOOLS TO FIELD OFFICERS

The Gambia Inclusive and Resilient Agricultural Value Chain Development project is intensifying efforts to improve agriculture extension capacities after the project's launch of a special E-extension ICT platform called 'Sene-nyaa Bantabaa'.The project officers gathered to formally hand over digital electronic equipment, including laptops, tablets, mobile phones, dashboards and smart screens, to the project field officer to expand monitoring and data recording services.This crucial venture seeks to advance innovation and create an efficient communication platform for agriculture extension workers and farmers. It is also anchored on easing access and visibility from the fields, enabling direct interface between experts and farmers.The platform is already up and running with officials looking to maximise impact by providing digital equipment to eextensionworkers.Stakeholders say, they are optimistic that extension capacities will reach a wider scope efficiently as they move to increase production and productivity.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

HEALTH MINISTRY WARNS OF GROWING THREAT POSED BY ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE

The Ministry of Health has joined the global commemoration of Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week with a strong call for responsible use of medicines.At a press conference at the central medical store, health experts warned that the misuse and overuse of antibiotics are increasing the risk of antimicrobial resistance in the country. Officials stressed that AMR threatens human health, animal health and even plant health, making it a serious national concern.Antimicrobial resistance is one of the “fastest-growing health threats” worldwide. It occurs when bacteria and other germs develop the ability to defeat medicines designed to kill them. “When this happens, infections become harder to treat, health care costs rise, and patients face higher chances of severe illness or death,” health experts say.Momodou Barrow, the representative of the World Health Organisation Country Office, said there is an “alarming rise in deaths” caused by antimicrobial resistance.Haruna Jallow and Baba Fofana both members of the National Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance team, emphasised that surveillance is essential for tracking resistant infections and guiding effective interventions. They say that AMR “affects every sector, making monitoring a critical tool for early detection and response.”Dr Ousman Ceesay, Deputy Director of Animal Health at the Department of Livestock Services, said protecting animals from infection is one of the first steps in breaking the chain of resistance.Officials warn that resistant infections can “spread between animals and people,” and even “affect agricultural production” by limiting the ability to treat plant diseases.The Ministry of Health is calling on the public to use antibiotics “responsibly and only when prescribed by a qualified health worker.” They also call for the strengthening of “infection prevention and control practices” in homes, communities and health facilities.As Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week continues, authorities say the fight against AMR can only be won through collective responsibility, disciplined use of medicines and a national commitment to protecting current and future generations from a preventable crisis.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

PRESIDENT BARROW CALLS FOR CHANGE AND GOVERNANCE THROUGH PARTICIPATORY APPROACH

President Adama Barrow has emphasised the need for Africa's active participation in shaping global change and governance through a participatory approach anchored on peace, stability, innovation, and sustainable growth.Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 17th edition of the MEDays International Forum in Tangier, Morocco, the Gambian leader underscored the importance of collective action in addressing global challenges.The three-day forum, themed "Fractures and Polarisation: Reinventing the Global Equation," brings together over 250 delegates from more than 100 countries to strengthen cooperation and seek solutions to challenges facing the world, particularly the Global South.During the ceremony, President Barrow received the 2025 Grand Prix for his outstanding leadership qualities, devotion to peace and stability, and international solidarity. "I am humbled and honoured by this recognition, which I accept on behalf of the Gambian people," he said, expressing gratitude to the organisers and His Majesty King Mohammed VI for their patronage.The Gambian leader praised the MEDays Forum as a vital platform for dialogue and action for the Global South, commending Morocco's role in redefining and influencing South-South Cooperation. He reaffirmed The Gambia's commitment to international peace, diplomacy, and solidarity, highlighting the country's progress over the past eight years in consolidating peace, strengthening democracy, and promoting development.President Barrow described the forum as a unique opportunity for Africa to redefine its role in reshaping the global order, enabling the continent to secure a voice and place in the multipolar world order.President Barrow was accompanied by Lady Sarjo Mballow-Barrow, Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Seringe Modou Njie and Minister & Chief of Staff, Office of the President Hon. Mod K. Ceesay.Other prominent speakers at the forum included President Joseph Nyuma Boakai of Liberia, Prime Minister Hamza Abde Barre of Somalia, and Prime Minister Dickon Mitchel of Grenada. President Boakae emphasised Africa's need to take its "rightful place on the global table" by working together to strengthen security, economic governance, and integration. Prime Minister Mitchel highlighted the threats posed by climate change to small island nations, calling for closer global cooperation to enhance response and rebuilding efforts.The President of the Amadeus Institute, Brahim Fissi Fihri, thanked the Gambian leader and other invited guests for attending, expressing hope that the discussions would contribute to enhancing global diplomacy, peace, and international solidarity.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

PRESIDENT BARROW TAKES TOP HONOUR AT MEDAYS 17TH EDITION  

The Gambian leader, President Adama Barrow, globally acclaimed as a man of peace and tolerance has been awarded the Grand Prix MEDays 2025 at the 17th Mediterranean Conference on global cooperation and dialogue. The citations on President Barrow recognised and acknowledged his commitment to cooperation and dialogue in strengthening peace and stability both at home and globally.  President Barrow is the 3rd Head of State for the Smiling Coast of Africa, The Gambia, a magnificent West African country within the ECOWAS bloc.   As he affirms, size is not important; it is what we do to promote dialogue, peace, and democracy that counts for us to advance as developing states. In his statement, President Barrow highlighted the importance of collaboration and collective action in achieving Africa's development goals including opportunities for economic growth. The Gambian leader praised Morocco’s leadership in South-South cooperation. He reiterated The Gambia’s support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Moroccan Sahara, citing The Gambia as the first country to open a Consulate General in Dakhla in 2020. This gesture underscores the strong bilateral ties between The Gambia and Morocco, built on shared values and cooperation. The event offers a platform for dialogue, innovation, and strategic partnerships, rooted in Morocco's pivotal role as a hub for international cooperation. Africa has long been struggling within, but the leadership of President Adama Barrow has demonstrated that with focus and innovation, our countries can advance rapidly. While leading unprecedented infrastructure development, democracy and economic prosperity at home, President Barrow also pursues regional and global peace, dialogue and cooperation. The President's visionary and transformative leadership within decade earned him the coveted 2024 African Peace Promoter Prize. The 17th edition of the MEDays Forum is underway in Tangier, Morocco, bringing together Heads of State and Government, business experts, and other decision makers to dialogue and formulate practical solutions to Africa’s challenges. Held under the theme ‘Fractures and Polarisation: Reinventing the Global Equation,’ the event is focused on exploring opportunities for growth and cooperation.President Barrow was accompanied by Lady Sarjo Mballow-Barrow, Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Seringe Modou Njie and Minister & Chief of Staff, Office of the President Hon. Mod K. Ceesay.

Continue Reading >>

Latest Updates

News First slide

PRESIDENT BARROW PERFORMS UMRAH IN HOLY CITY OF MAKKAH

His Excellency President Adama Barrow and his delegation have arrived in the Holy City of Makkah from Medina to perform Umrah, the lesser pilgrimage.Dressed in Ihram, a symbol of purity and humility, the President and his delegation travelled to Makkah aboard a two-hour train journey to Islam’s holiest city.Consular Ebou Ndure said the trip to Makkah marks the climax of the President’s spiritual journey, which has so far included visits to the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, Masjid al-Quba, and the Mountains of Uhud.Inside the VIP coach, the atmosphere was calm and reflective, filled with religious chants as the President reaffirmed his intention to perform Umrah in accordance with Islamic teachings and traditions.On arrival in Makkah, President Barrow was received by officials from the Royal Palace and escorted to the Royal Guest House overlooking the Holy Kaaba.Shortly after, he was led to Masjid Al-Haram to begin the Umrah rites. The President first performed Maghrib prayers at the Holy Kaaba alongside members of his delegation.He then proceeded to perform Tawaf, circling the Holy Kaaba seven times, aboard specially designated vehicles reserved for heads of state and dignitaries.Following Tawaf, President Barrow performed Sa’i, walking between Safa and Marwa. The nearly 2km journey, completed seven times, relives the footsteps of Hajara, wife of Prophet Ibrahim, who made the same trek in search of water for her son, Prophet Ismail.After completing all prescribed rituals, the President returned to the Kaaba to perform Ishaa congregational prayers, marking the conclusion of the Umrah rites.President Barrow was later escorted back to the Royal Guest House. He is expected to travel to Jeddah for a series of engagements, including a meeting with members of the Gambian community in Saudi Arabia.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

PRESIDENT BARROW MEETS AFDB PRESIDENT TAH TO DEEPEN INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENERGY PARTNERSHIP

President Adama Barrow on Friday received a high-level delegation from the African Development Bank Group, led by its President Dr Sidi Ould Tah, at State House. The two sides reviewed the existing partnership between The Gambia and the AfDB and discussed ways to deepen cooperation in infrastructure, electricity, and other priority development areas.Dr Ould Tah was accompanied to the State House by the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Sidi Keita. Speaking to reporters after the talks, the AfDB President expressed appreciation to President Barrow for The Gambia’s strong support to the Bank and for the “fruitful partnership over the years.”Dr Ould Tah reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to continue supporting The Gambia to deliver on key sectors and projects aimed at improving the quality of life and livelihoods of citizens. He commended The Gambia under President Barrow’s leadership for its “impressive performance” in economic management, domestic resource mobilisation, and reforms of key state institutions.“We also congratulated the Gambian leader on the country’s microfinance performance, growth, domestic resource mobilisation, and reforms related to state enterprises and procurement,” Dr Ould Tah said. “The Gambian Leader gave us clear direction on the priorities of his government and his development vision for the country. The African Development Bank Group is keen to provide funding and support across all sectors to match that orientation.”Minister of Finance Sidi Keita said The Gambia remains committed to working with development partners like the AfDB to strengthen growth and development. He described the visit as “a strong vote of confidence and trust in The Gambia.”Dr Ould Tah and his delegation will remain in The Gambia for several days. They are scheduled to hold engagements with officials from various government sectors to review existing cooperation and explore new areas of partnership with government and other stakeholders.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

VP JALLOW MEETS GUINEA-BISSAU COMMUNICATION MINISTER 

The Guinea-Bissau Minister of Social Communication and Government Spokesperson, Hon. Dr Abduramane Turé, has paid a courtesy call on The Gambia’s Vice President, His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, at State House. The visit is aimed at strengthening ties between Bissau and Banjul. Minister Turé was accompanied to the Vice President’s office by Guinea-Bissau’s Ambassador to The Gambia, Luís Camara de Barros, alongside The Gambia’s Minister of Information, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, Permanent Secretary Codu L. Jabang, and Director of Information Services, Aisha Davis.The delegation held a closed-door meeting with the Vice President. Afterwards, Minister Turé addressed the press on key issues discussed.“I did not come to discuss a specific agenda with His Excellency the Vice President. I'm here to brief him on the core objectives of my mission to The Gambia, and further update him on the current status of bilateral cooperation in the field of media and social communication,” he said.Minister Turé commended the cordial relations between Guinea-Bissau and The Gambia, describing them as strong and mutually beneficial.The Guinea-Bissau official also praised the Vice President for the warm reception, saying VP Jallow reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the development agendas of both countries. He expressed optimism that the visit will further deepen bilateral ties.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

PRESIDENT BARROW ARRIVES IN SAUDI ARABIA FOR SIX-DAY VISIT

His Excellency President Adama Barrow has arrived in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for a six-day official visit.The President is accompanied by a high-powered delegation comprising First Lady Sarjo Mballow Barrow, the Chief of Staff and Minister of the Presidency Aliu Loum, and the Commissioner General of The Gambia Revenue Authority Yankuba Darboe.President Barrow was received on arrival by His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Nahar Al Saud, Governor of Madina, His Excellency Mambury Njai, The Gambia’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Deputy Ambassador Omar Baldeh, and Consul General at The Gambia’s Consulate in Madina, Ebou Ndure.Following his arrival, President Barrow held a brief tete-a-tete with Prince Saud at the Airport VVIP lounge. The President thanked the Saudi government for the warm hospitality accorded to him and his delegation.For his part, Prince Saud welcomed the President and his delegation to the Kingdom and reassured them of the Saudi government’s support to ensure a successful visit.President Barrow is expected to begin official activities in Madina on Friday with prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque and a visit to the Rawdah, where the Prophet PBUH and his two companions, Abubacarr and Omar, are buried.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

PRESIDENT BARROW: ‘NO COUNTRY CAN REACH ITS POTENTIAL WITHOUT EMPOWERING WOMEN AND GIRLS’

Over 730 young women graduate from SWEDD+ entrepreneurship training and receive D50,000 – D75,000 business grantsPresident Adama Barrow has said no country can realise its full potential without investing in women and girls, as The Gambia certified 730 beneficiaries under the Sahel Women’s Empowerment and Demographic Dividend Plus Project, SWEDD+. Speaking at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, the President said families thrive and communities grow stronger when women are supported. The ceremony recognised women and girls aged 15-24 who completed a three-month entrepreneurship training program under SWEDD+, implemented by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare.The five-year project targets out-of-school women and girls to improve livelihoods, skills, and economic independence.A total of D117 million has been earmarked for more than 2,000 young women under the project. For this first cohort of over 700 graduands, each will receive between D50,000 and D75,000 in business grants.The Ministry has set aside D32 million to be disbursed directly to the new graduates to start or expand their businesses. Cheques and certificates were presented to regional representatives at the event.Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare described the event as a “milestone” toward economic independence for beneficiaries. He commended President Barrow for advancing gender equality, noting that the skills gained will “open doors” for the graduates.Alpha Humma, Project Manager for the Women Enterprise Fund, said the training will enable graduands to contribute meaningfully to society. He confirmed the D32 million grant facility to support business start-ups.World Bank Representative Franklin Mutahakana said entrepreneurship training helps break barriers that limit women and girls. “This program gives young women more economic uplift,” he said, and reaffirmed the Bank’s support for The Gambia’s women’s empowerment agenda.Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Kaddy Balajo thanked the President, the Ministry of Gender, and the World Bank. “Women and girls are not mere beneficiaries of development, but partners,” she said. “The skills, knowledge, and grants we have received will transform our lives.”In his keynote, President Barrow congratulated the graduands and said investing in human capital through SWEDD+ is critical for sustainable growth.He urged beneficiaries to use the grants wisely and serve as inspiration to others. The President reiterated government’s commitment to inclusive development and equal opportunities for all Gambians.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

FIVE STATE-OWNED ENTERPRISES HAND OVER D137 MILLION IN DIVIDENDS TO PRESIDENT BARROW

Five state-owned enterprises, SOEs, handed over cheques totalling D137 million in dividend payments to President H.E. Adama Barrow at a ceremony held at State House on Tuesday. The unprecedented development marks a milestone in government-SOE relations, following reforms aimed at making the enterprises more profitable, better managed, and financially viable.For the first time in The Gambia’s history, SOEs lined up at State House not to request bailouts, but to return dividends worth over D130 million to the President.Board chairpersons, managing directors, and officials of the State-Owned Enterprises Commission gathered in the Cabinet Room to witness the ceremony. The five SOEs and their contributions were:1. Gambia Ports Authority: D70 million.2. Gambia National Petroleum Corporation: D50 million.3. Gambia Civil Aviation Authority: D5 million.4. Gambia Publishing and Printing Corporation: D5 million.5. The Gambia Radio and Television Services: D2 million.Chief of Staff to the President, Alieu Loum, who chaired the event, described it as unique. “The SOEs have fulfilled their obligations to government and to Gambians,” he said.The Chairman of the SOE Commission, Ousainou Ngum, said since the commission’s establishment three years ago, there has been remarkable improvement in the operations, management, and performance of state enterprises. He expressed hope that this transformation will continue, starting with this first dividend payment. Ngum also commended President Barrow for his leadership, oversight, and support to the commission and SOEs.In his keynote address, President Barrow described the ceremony as historic, noting it marks a turnaround for SOEs that, until 2024, were running a combined net loss of D2.4 billion. He attributed the performance to his government’s deliberate, sustained, and evidence-driven reform agenda focused on governance, accountability, and performance management.The President praised the SOE Commission for transforming public perception of state institutions and promoting efficiency. However, he urged all stakeholders to build on these achievements to address challenges affecting growth, liquidity, and profitability.President Barrow also reassured Gambians that the government will continue robust measures to end recurrent power cuts. He noted that NAWEC has improved its financial performance, enabling investment in the energy sector.He concluded by urging all SOEs to maintain the momentum, as the government remains committed to building efficient, functional, and robust state enterprises that deliver for the Gambian people.

Continue Reading >>