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OFFICE OF NATIONAL SECURITY CONTINUES NATIONWIDE SENSITISATION ON NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL ACT 2025

The Office of the National Security (ONS), in partnership with the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF), has launched a regional sensitisation programme on the National Security Council Act 2025 in the Central River Region (CRR). This initiative aims to deepen public understanding of the legislation, which seeks to create a formal and coherent framework for coordinating national security activities across the country.The National Security Council Act 2025 is designed to enhance efficiency, strengthen strategic oversight, and address emerging and traditional security challenges. The Act establishes a structured National Security Council and related mechanisms to promote inter-agency coordination, civilian oversight, and a more professional security sector.This sensitation targets over 300 participants, including Regional Governors, security agencies, Chiefs, Alkalos, civil society, youth and women’s groups, are expected to take part.Foday Fofana, Project Officer at DCAF-Banjul, emphasised the importance of engagement in promoting clarity, enhancing collaboration, and generating valuable feedback to strengthen national security coordination mechanisms. The sensitisation exercise is part of ongoing efforts to popularise the legislation among the public and security institutions nationwide.Governor Ousman Bah of the Central River Region commended the Government of The Gambia for prioritising security sector reforms and taking deliberate steps to popularise the legislation. Lamin Jatta, Director of Joint Assessment at the Office of the National Security, noted that the Act is designed to align national security with development aspirations, ensuring security strategies remain comprehensive, people-centred, and supportive of the country's wider development agenda.The nationwide sensitisation reinforces democratic norms by embedding respect for human rights, accountability, and the rule of law within the country's security sector. This initiative demonstrates The Gambia's commitment to promoting security sector governance and advancing national development priorities.This sensitation targets over 300 participants, including Regional Governors, security agencies, Chiefs, Alkalos, civil society, youth and women’s groups, are expected to take part.

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WESTMINSTER FOUNDATION FOR DEMOCRACY LAUNCHES COST OF POLITICS RESEARCH

The Westminster Foundation for Democracy has launched a research report on the cost of politics in The Gambia, highlighting the challenges faced by women and the need for greater accountability in campaign financing. The launch event, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, brought together politicians and civil society members to discuss the findings and implications of the research.The research, conducted ahead of the 2026 presidential election, reveals that the financial burden and societal issues are significant barriers to women's participation in politics. The study also raises concerns about the source of campaign financing for political actors, citing the risk of state capture due to private sponsorship.Tabu Njie Sarr, Country Director for the Westminster Foundation for Democracy, emphasised the importance of exploring the cost of politics and promoting women's participation in decision-making processes. Babucarr Nyang, a member of the research team, presented the findings, highlighting the need for greater transparency and accountability in campaign financing.The report's launch was officiated by Hon. Kebba Tumani Sanneh, National Assembly Member for Foni Jarrol and member of the Gender Committee of the National Assembly. A panel discussion featuring veteran politicians, including Halifa Sallah and Fatoumata Jallow-Tambaajang, provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for women's participation in politics.The research outcome is now publicly available, providing a critical resource for stakeholders to promote transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in The Gambia's political processes.

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OUATTARA SWORN IN FOR FOURTH TERM AS IVORY COAST PRESIDENT

President Alassane Ouattara has taken the oath of office for a fourth five-year term as President of Côte d'Ivoire, following a landslide victory in October's presidential election where he secured nearly 90% of the vote. The inauguration ceremony, held at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan, was attended by 11 African leaders, including President Adama Barrow of The Gambia, and delegations from 50 countries.With his left hand on the Constitution and his right hand raised, the 83-year-old President Ouattara vowed to uphold the constitution, maintain national unity, and protect the rights and liberties of citizens. He was decorated with the country's highest honour, the National Order, by Grand Chancellor Ally Coulibaly.The inauguration ceremony, held at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan, was attended by 11 African leaders, including President Adama Barrow of The Gambia.In his inaugural address, President Ouattara expressed gratitude to the Ivorian people for electing him for another term and pledged to continue his program of national consolidation and development, prioritising women and youth. He emphasised his government's commitment to economic transformation, agricultural modernisation, and building a united and prosperous nation.The swearing-in ceremony is seen as a consolidation of democracy in Côte d'Ivoire, a country regarded as a beacon of peace and stability in West Africa. The presence of ECOWAS leaders at the ceremony underscores the sub-regional body's commitment to defending and strengthening democracy in the region.

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WORLD BANK EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LAUDS GAMBIA'S PROGRESS, ANNOUNCES KEY INVESTMENTS

The Vice President of The Gambia, His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow, has received the Executive Director of the World Bank Group, Dr. ZarauDrbwe, for a crucial meeting to discuss the country's development progress and future collaborations. The meeting, attended by key officials from the Ministry of Finance and the World Bank, highlighted the strong partnership between The Gambia and the World Bank Group.The Gambia is set to host the next major African Caucus Meeting for the IMF/World Bank in 2026, following its assumption of the Chairmanship in late 2025. The meeting will focus on themes such as infrastructure, human capital, and green assets for sustainable growth, building on discussions from the 2025 Bangui meeting.Dr Zarau Kibwe, accompanied by the Hon. Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Seedy Keita, Permanent Secretary Mod A.K. Secka, the Country Director of the World Bank, Franklin Mutahakana, and Senior officials from both the Ministry of finance and the World Bank Group.The World Bank Country Director, Franklin Mutahakana, emphasised the importance of the 2026 Caucus meeting in advancing strategies for the continent's economic future. Dr. ZarauDrbwe expressed satisfaction with the progress of project implementation across The Gambia, citing the USET Complex in Brikama as a model for educational reform in Africa.The Gambia's Chairmanship of the African Caucus is expected to present a unified African voice on global financial reforms, advocate for increased funding, and foster sustainable development. The World Bank's top executives' visit reinforces the strong partnership between The Gambia and the World Bank Group, with discussions focusing on emerging opportunities and avenues for deeper collaboration.

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PRESIDENT BARROW ATTENDS INAUGURATION OF PRESIDENT ALASSANE OUATTARA IN ABIDJAN

His Excellency President Adama Barrow joined regional leaders in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire on Monday to witness the inauguration of President Alassane Ouattara for a fourth term.President Ouattara pledged to uphold the nation's constitution, emphasising democracy, stability, and peace. He outlined plans for modernisation, institutional development, and the empowerment of women and youth, highlighting skills acquisition and domestically driven economic growth.President Barrow's attendance reinforces The Gambia's commitment to regional cooperation and African economic integration.Regional leaders present included Presidents John Dramani Mahama (Ghana), Bassirou Diomaye Faye (Senegal), Julius Maada Bio (Sierra Leone), Brice Nguéma (Gabon), Mohamed Ould Ghazouani (Mauritania), and João Lourenço (Angola).

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GAMBIA POLICE ARREST SUSPECT IN BRUTAL MURDER OF 40-YEAR-OLD WOMAN IN BRIKAMA

The Gambia Police Force has arrested a 26-year-old suspect, Sulayman Saidykhan, in connection with the alleged murder of Fatou Sambou, a 40-year-old resident of Kembujeh Madina. The victim was found with injuries to her head and hand on her groundnut farm behind the Brikama Power Station on December 2.Thanks to the robust efforts of the police and timely support from stakeholder institutions, investigators were able to track and trace the victim's stolen mobile phone, ultimately leading to the suspect's arrest. Saidykhan, an ex-soldier with a previous criminal conviction, was found in possession of the deceased's mobile phone.The suspect has been cautioned, charged, and detained, while investigations continue to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The Gambia Police Force reassures the public that a thorough, impartial, and professional investigation will be conducted to ensure justice is served.The police acknowledge the support of all stakeholders whose cooperation contributed to the swift arrest of the suspect. The public can rest assured that the police are working diligently to bring perpetrators of such heinous crimes to justice.

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  • GPF
  • December 6, 2025 11:28
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PRESIDENT BARROW RECEIVES MILLIONS-WORTH OF DONATIONS TO BOOST ECONOMIC GROWTH

President Adama Barrow has received a significant donation from Qatar Charity, consisting of 130 cargo tricycles, 130 'tuk-tuk', and 100 diesel-powered milling machines. The donation, worth millions of dollars, is aimed at empowering vulnerable communities and promoting economic growth in The Gambia.The donated items will be deployed in partnership with the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), civil society organisations, and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare. The project aligns with the government's YIRIWA agenda, focusing on improving livelihoods and promoting economic growth.Qatar Charity has implemented projects in The Gambia worth USD 5 million since 2019, covering education, health, water, sanitation, and support for vulnerable families. The latest phase of the economic empowerment program focuses on rural employment and women's development.President Barrow expressed profound appreciation for the donation, describing it as a reflection of true international solidarity. He praised Qatar Charity for demonstrating a deep commitment to strengthening vulnerable communities and upholding human dignity.The Qatari Ambassador to The Gambia, H.E. Abdallah Jassim Al Kabi, also presented school bags with stationery items to school-going orphans during the ceremony, further highlighting the charity's commitment to supporting education and vulnerable populations.

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PRESIDENT BARROW URGES BAKAU TO ABANDON OPPOSITION, EMBRACE DEVELOPMENT

The President H.E. Adama Barrow held a meeting in Bakau,  as he wraps up his annual Meet the People Tour in the Kanifing Municipality. President Barrow called on Bakau to abandon its age-old loyalty to the opposition and embrace his government to accelerate national development, foster unity and enhance stability. The rally drew a massive turnout with crowds of young people and women receiving the President and entourage at the main intersection leading to the venue.After the usual welcome ceremonies,  the Alkalo of Bakau Doudou Bojang made a passionate appeal to the people to change course and embrace the government of President Adama Barrow. “Decades in the opposition have brought us nothing. We should draw inspiration from others and turn a new page,” the Alkalo said. He cited the various development projects across the country, undertaken by the President and appealed to the government to replicate them in Bakau.This was re-echoed by several other speakers, including Mariama Sanneh, the lady councillor, Mabinta Badji, the constituency mobiliser,  Fafa Sanyang and Fatou Darboe. They all called for a shift in politics to dismantle Bakau's reputation as an “opposition stronghold” by embracing the NPP.  Such political realignment,  the speakers added will “usher in a new era of development for this coastal settlement.” They also deplored the poor state of infrastructure in the town, with most neighbourhoods prone to flooding during the rainy season.  This state of affairs,  the people of Bakau lament, is “unsustainable and needs urgent action to modernise the town.”Unda Nyang, a senior member of the NPP, appealed to the government to expedite renovation works of the Independence Stadium to enable the Gambia to host home games and boost chances of qualification for major tournaments. The executive coordinator for the Kanifing Municipality,  Bakary Singhateh lauded the President and his government for the many development projects in the Municipality that have greatly improved the lives and livelihoods of the people. The Minister for Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie, disclosed that the government has spent funds to renovate and modernise the Independence Stadium, adding that works will be completed by March of next year.  He defended the slow pace of the works, arguing that since it's construction 40 years ago, the stadium has never been renovated. The sports minister urged the people of the Municipality to hold the Kanifing Municipal Council to account, adding that since assuming office,  the Council has not undertaken any meaningful development initiative to plough back taxes to the people. The Minister for Health, Dr Ahmadou Lamin Samateh, disclosed that the government will build a health post in Bakau to provide primary health care to the people. President Adama Barrow called Bakau a “historic settlement that has played a prominent role in the political life of the country,”  but reassured that as President he does not discriminate against any community.He pledged to modernise Bakau by replicating the Banjul project to construct all the roads, drainage and sewage systems. Responding to appeals from the women, the President instructed the Fisheries Ministry to provide two fishing boats to the community of Bakau. He also announced that seven selected youths will be awarded D100,000 each to venture into economic activities. The President also demanded accountability from the KMC, urging taxpayers to demand that the Municipal authorities invest in projects that will improve the lives of the people. President Barrow finally paid tribute to his longtime political mentor, Dembo Bojang, who died a few months ago. He described the late politician as a political heavyweight who dominated politics in Bakau and stood by him during the most trying times of his political journey.  The President described him as a “great patriot, who loved Bakau and always worked for the interest of his people.” He concluded by thanking Bakau for welcoming him with a massive reception,  and promised a brighter future for the town and its inhabitants 

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PRESIDENT BARROW REASSURES GAMBIANS OF COMMITMENT TO RENOVATING INDEPENDENCE STADIUM

His Excellency Adama Barrow, the President of the Republic of The Gambia, has reassured Gambians that his government is committed to renovating the iconic Independence Stadium to international standards. The President made the remarks after visiting the stadium in Bakau to assess the ongoing renovation works, which are designed to upgrade infrastructure and services to the required FIFA standards. The President also laid the foundation stone of a fish smoking market and toured the KG 5 mini stadium in Banjul The President first arrived at the proposed fish smoking site in Banjul,  where he laid the foundation stone for the construction of a modern environmentally friendly fish smoking market.  Until its demolition,  the makeshift market was occupied by more than 60 women fish vendors who made a living by smoking fish for sale. During his tour last year, the President was approached by the women vendors who pleaded with him to construct a modern fish smoking facility for them.  True to his promise, the President set up a committee headed by the Vice President to mobilise funds to construct the market.The contract for the construction of the market is supervised by Gamworks, the government agency for the management of public works. According to the Project Director, Elizabeth Carayol Ndong,   the work entails the construction of modern and environmentally friendly smoke houses to cater for the needs of the women and vendors.The women vendors and fishermen expressed profound gratitude to the president for fulfilling his promise, adding that the new market will empower vendors and modernise fish handling and processing in Banjul.The regional coordinator for Banjul Ebrima Jawo described the development as another milestone for the city, which has seen unprecedented developments under President Barrow's leadership. He thanked the President and urged the women vendors to take advantage of this opportunity to contribute to the development of the city.The foundation-laying ceremony attracted wild celebrations from the women vendors, who cheered the President and thanked him for empowering them. Women play an important role in the Fisheries sector, mostly specialising in fish processing and handling.  This modern market, specifically designed for smoking catfish, is expected to maximise and solidify Banjul's place as the foremost producer of one of the most prized catfish in The Gambia.  The project is expected to finish within 6 months.The President later drove to the KG5 mini stadium, just a few hundred metres from the market, which is equally undergoing construction works to modernise the pitch to CAF standards. The President was received by notable Banjulians and representatives of the youth. Speaking to GRTS, the Project Manager from Gamworks, Sheriff Ndow, disclosed that works are now at the final stages after all the preparatory works have been completed.The youths of Banjul commended the President and his government for restoring the mini stadium to international standards. As the only football field in Banjul,  this development,  the youths argued, will enable the city to resume its nawettan tournament in earnest.President Barrow also thanked the youths for their patience and reassured them that the government will do everything possible to promote sports participation by providing the necessary infrastructure for young people. The President completed his tour of project sites with a visit to the Independence Stadium, where works are progressing to build the roads around the stadium as required by the continental football body CAF.President Barrow was briefed by contractors and site supervisors on the progress of the works, with assurances that they will be completed by the end of this month.  This development will lay to rest speculation about the state of affairs at the country's only stadium, which has been undergoing massive renovation and modernisation works. The President called for patience and reassured that the government is committed to ensuring that all works meet international standards as required by Caf and FIFA.He thanked all stakeholders for the hard work and tasked them to ensure the timely completion of the works to enable the country to host football matches at home.

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SANNA MANJANG CHARGED WITH TRIPLE MURDER

Former Gambia Armed Forces member Sanna Manjang, accused of human rights abuses under ex-president Yahya Jammeh, faces three murder counts from 2005-2006, including the killings of Dayda Hydara, Ndong Mboob, and Haruna Jammeh. The case has been transferred to the High Court, with Manjang remanded to Mile II Central Prison. 

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  • GRTS
  • December 3, 2025 08:08
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EXTRADITED: SANNA MANJANG NOTORIOUS JUNGLER RETURN TO GAMBIA TO FACE JUSTICE 

Sanna Manjang, a former member of the notorious "Junglers" hit squad, has been extradited to The Gambia from Senegal, where he was arrested on November 29, 2025.Manjang is accused of gross human rights violations during former President Yahya Jammeh's rule, including torture, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings. He was handed over to the Gambia Armed Forces Military Police by the Senegalese Military at Giboro village under heavy armed presence.Senegalese and Gambian authorities taking pictures before the handover: “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.”The extradition marks a significant step in The Gambia's pursuit of justice and accountability for past human rights abuses. Sanna's arrest and extradition demonstrate the country's commitment to holding perpetrators accountable and providing closure for victims and their families.WHAT NEXT?Manjang is expected to face legal proceedings in The Gambia, where he will be processed in accordance with the law. His extradition and potential prosecution serve as a testament to the country's determination to confront its past and ensure accountability for human rights abuses.

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  • GRTS
  • December 2, 2025 09:49
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GAMBIA IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT SHATTERS REVENUE RECORDS WITH D584 MILLION COLLECTION IN 9 MONTHS

The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) has announced a groundbreaking revenue collection of D584,414,478.30 from January to October 2025, representing a 112% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This impressive performance surpasses the annual total collection of 2024, which stood at D420,219,024.00, marking a 39% increase.The revenue was generated through the Gambia Biometric Identification System, Immigration Fees, and the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS). According to the GID, this achievement underscores the crucial role the department plays in strengthening the government's consolidated revenue base.The GID has expanded the accessibility of national documents to Gambians, both at home and abroad, reaffirming the government's commitment to safeguarding the rights of Gambians. The department is also accelerating the rollout of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC), easing identification and regional integration.Despite this significant achievement, the GID continues to face challenges, including resource constraints, mobility challenges, and legislative gaps that affect the effective implementation of immigration management and border governance. The department is committed to curbing irregular migration, promoting access to legal identity, and building the capacity of immigration staff to sustain a robust, efficient, and service-driven institution.GID Director General Ebrima Mboob reaffirmed the department's commitment to closing revenue leakages, embracing technology, and upholding standards in immigration law. The GID calls on local authorities, landlords, and communities to remain vigilant and support the department in the enforcement of alien registration and safeguarding the territorial sovereignty of The Gambia.

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  • GID
  • December 2, 2025 03:39

Latest Updates

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𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐍 𝐀𝐅𝐅𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐒 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐒 𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐎𝐍 𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐁𝐎𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐕𝐎𝐋𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐌𝐈𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐒

𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐋, 𝟒𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad expresses its deep sadness following reports of a boat incident involving migrants and extends its sincere condolences to the families and loved ones affected. The Ministry conveys its solidarity with all those awaiting information regarding the whereabouts and well-being of their relatives.At this stage, the identities and nationalities of the persons reportedly on board have not been officially verified. While preliminary information suggests that the vessel may have departed from The Gambia, the Ministry is engaging with the Spanish authorities and other relevant stakeholders to establish the circumstances of the incident and verify the information currently available.The Ministry is also liaising with the relevant Spanish authorities and, through its National Focal Point under the Rabat Process, maintaining contact with relevant counterparts and partners, including IOM and ICRC, as appropriate, to facilitate information-sharing and contribute to efforts to clarify the situation.The Ministry is mindful of the distress and uncertainty being experienced by families whose relatives may be missing. The Ministry therefore urges the public and all concerned to exercise caution regarding information that has not been officially verified, as inaccurate reports may cause further distress to affected families. Further information will be communicated, as appropriate, once the relevant facts have been established and verified.The Ministry remains concerned about the continued risks associated with dangerous and irregular migration journeys. It underscores the importance of continued cooperation among relevant authorities and stakeholders to promote safe and regular migration and protect vulnerable migrants from exploitation.The Ministry extends its deepest sympathies to all families and communities affected by this incident and appreciates the public's understanding, patience, and cooperation as efforts to establish the facts continue.

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PRESIDENT BARROW INAUGURATES NEW MOSQUE IN GUNJUR

President Adama Barrow on Friday inaugurated a new mosque in Gunjur, a project funded by the Presidency. The ceremony drew cabinet ministers, senior government officials, religious leaders, elders, and residents of Gunjur and neighbouring settlements.On arrival, President Barrow was received by West Coast Region Governor Ousman Bojang and the Minister of Regional Government, Lands and Religious Affairs, Hamat N.K. Bah, along with other dignitaries.(Minister of Regional Government, Lands and Religious Affairs, Hamat N.K. Bah welcoming President Barrow as he arrived in Gunjur.)By noon, the mosque and its compound were filled, with many others seated outside for the historic opening.Imam Alhagie Muhammed Lamin Touray led the prayer service. In his sermon, he preached peace, unity, and stability, and urged Muslims to fulfil their religious obligations with dedication.(Imam Alhagie Muhammed Lamin Touray, who was a former President of The Gambia's Supreme Islamic Council, delivering the sermon.)The Imam then led the two-rakat prayer marking the official inauguration of the mosque.Speaking after prayers, Imam Touray expressed profound gratitude to President Barrow for sponsoring the construction. He recalled past challenges the community faced in raising funds for a mosque, and said the President had fulfilled their long-held dream."This singular act will enhance the spiritual development of the community," Imam Touray said. He also thanked women, youth, and religious leaders for their support during the project.(President Barrow flanked by Chief Falalo Touray and Alkalo Dembo Darboe of Gunjur.)Chief Falalo Touray and Alkalo Dembo Darboe of Gunjur also commended the President. They noted that the mosque, together with ongoing road and infrastructure projects, will promote the religious and social development of Gunjur. They urged residents to support the President to enable him to continue his development agenda.Minister Hamat N.K. Bah described the mosque as one of the most modern in the country, built to meet contemporary architectural standards.He disclosed that President Barrow has funded several mosque projects nationwide, reflecting his commitment to Islam and the spiritual development of Muslims.The Minister echoed calls for Gambians to support the President’s re-election bid in December. He also thanked elders and religious leaders for preaching peace and tolerance, and urged them to continue guiding to preserve national tranquillity.In his inaugural statement, President Barrow thanked the Gunjur community for the honour, noting he had long pledged to support the project.(President Barrow addressing worshippers after the prayer.)He described Gunjur as a historic Islamic settlement that produced renowned scholars including Omar Bun Jeng and Hatab Bojang. He said mosques play a vital role in the spiritual and moral development of society.The President thanked anonymous donors who supported the construction and urged the community to pray for them. He called the mosque a progressive project that has changed the infrastructural landscape of Gunjur.President Barrow challenged residents to take good care of the mosque and its facilities, and pledged government support for its upkeep and maintenance.On the upcoming December elections, the President urged Gambians to pray for peace. He reassured the nation of the government’s commitment to a smooth and credible process."There are no losers in elections," President Barrow said. "A peaceful and credible process promotes The Gambia’s image as a democratic country."The President departed Gunjur to a large farewell crowd.

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DR. FATOU BENSOUDA HONOURED WITH NELSON MANDELA ANNUAL LECTURE AWARD

Dr Fatou Bensouda, High Commissioner of The Gambia to the United Kingdom, has received the prestigious Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture Award for her outstanding contribution to the promotion of the rule of law, justice, and human rights globally.Dr Bensouda delivered the 19th Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture in 2021. In recognition of that address and her longstanding commitment to justice and accountability, the Nelson Mandela Foundation honoured her with a commemorative award bust.During Dr Bensouda’s visit to South Africa in November 2025, the Foundation proposed to present the award in person. Due to time constraints, it was received on her behalf by Her Excellency Fatoumatta Jahumpa Ceesay, High Commissioner of The Gambia to South Africa, in Pretoria.Madam Jahumpa Ceesay later brought the award to London, where she formally presented it to Dr Bensouda in a brief ceremony at the Gambian High Commission.The recognition places Dr Bensouda among a distinguished group of global leaders associated with the Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture. Past lecturers and honourees include former U.S. President Barack Obama, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, former South African President Thabo Mbeki, Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai, and philanthropist Bill Gates.The Annual Lecture is one of the Foundation’s flagship programmes and celebrates individuals who advance the values of human dignity, justice, and equality championed by Nelson Mandela.The award is a fitting acknowledgement of Dr Bensouda’s distinguished career in international law. As former Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, she played a key role in advancing accountability for war crimes and crimes against humanity.The High Commission said the honour reflects not only Dr Bensouda’s personal legacy, but also The Gambia’s continued commitment to justice, the rule of law, and human rights on the global stage.

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𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐍 𝐀𝐅𝐅𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐒 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐒 𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐎𝐍 𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐁𝐎𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐕𝐎𝐋𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐌𝐈𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐒

𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐋, 𝟒𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad expresses its deep sadness following reports of a boat incident involving migrants and extends its sincere condolences to the families and loved ones affected. The Ministry conveys its solidarity with all those awaiting information regarding the whereabouts and well-being of their relatives.At this stage, the identities and nationalities of the persons reportedly on board have not been officially verified. While preliminary information suggests that the vessel may have departed from The Gambia, the Ministry is engaging with the Spanish authorities and other relevant stakeholders to establish the circumstances of the incident and verify the information currently available.The Ministry is also liaising with the relevant Spanish authorities and, through its National Focal Point under the Rabat Process, maintaining contact with relevant counterparts and partners, including IOM and ICRC, as appropriate, to facilitate information-sharing and contribute to efforts to clarify the situation.The Ministry is mindful of the distress and uncertainty being experienced by families whose relatives may be missing. The Ministry therefore urges the public and all concerned to exercise caution regarding information that has not been officially verified, as inaccurate reports may cause further distress to affected families. Further information will be communicated, as appropriate, once the relevant facts have been established and verified.The Ministry remains concerned about the continued risks associated with dangerous and irregular migration journeys and underscores the importance of continued cooperation among relevant authorities and stakeholders to promote safe and regular migration and protect vulnerable migrants from exploitation.The Ministry extends its deepest sympathies to all families and communities affected by this incident and appreciates the understanding, patience and cooperation of the public as efforts to establish the facts continue.

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PRESIDENT BARROW TOURS LANDMARK PROJECTS, MEETS GAMBIAN COMMUNITY IN LIBREVILLE

On the sidelines of his visit to the Republic of Gabon, President Adama Barrow on Monday toured landmark projects in the capital, Libreville, and met with members of the Gambian community.The President, accompanied by First Lady Fatou Bah Barrow, began with a visit to a major hotel constructed by a Turkish conglomerate that has helped transform Gabon’s hospitality industry.The Chief Executive Officer conducted President Barrow and the First Lady on a guided tour of the hotel located on the shores of the coastal city.President Barrow was then driven to the site of one of Gabon and Central Africa’s most ambitious projects — a twisting tower that, when completed, will be the tallest building in the sub-region.Gabonese and Turkish contractors briefed the President on the progress of the tower and related infrastructure. The project is expected to be ready for inauguration next year and will permanently transform the skyline of the Central African nation. The gesture mirrored the tour accorded to President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema during his recent visit to The Gambia.Following the site visit, President Barrow and the First Lady proceeded to the Radisson Blu Hotel for a meeting with Gambians living in Gabon.Consul General Saikou Dukureh welcomed the President and thanked him for the engagement. He described Gambians in Gabon as hardworking, united, and law-abiding, and commended the government for supporting their welfare.Jakarta Dampha, a community representative, said there has been marked improvement in the well-being of Gambians in Gabon since President Barrow took office. He noted that the President’s leadership has ensured that Gambians in the diaspora are not discriminated against and that their concerns are addressed promptly.Hawa Dukureh, speaking on behalf of the youth, commended the President for dispatching a team of immigration officials to issue national documents. She said nearly 200 people were processed, but appealed for support to ensure the passports are delivered.In his remarks, President Barrow expressed gratitude for the warm reception at the airport, which he said even impressed his host, President Oligui Nguema.He said dialogue is key to national unity and described it as a great honour to serve as Chief Guest of Honour at Gabon’s Independence Anniversary.On diaspora support, the President reaffirmed his government’s commitment to assisting Gambians abroad. He said the decision to send immigration officials to Gabon was to ensure citizens have access to documents. He pledged to prioritise the delivery of all processed passports upon his return to Banjul.The President also updated the community on developments at home. He said the government has laid the foundation stone for 1,500 km of roads across the country and highlighted progress in electricity, health, transport, and education.With the December presidential election approaching, President Barrow encouraged those with voter cards to exercise their right, and urged those without to encourage family and friends to vote for continuity.He concluded by urging the community to maintain unity, peace, and respect for lawful authority. He also advised Gambians seeking repatriation to apply through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a smooth process.

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PRESIDENT BARROW JOINS GABON'S 66TH INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATIONS IN LIBREVILLE

The President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, joined the people of Gabon on Monday to celebrate the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary with a grand military parade in the capital, Libreville.The national day celebrations were held at the Palais de l’Indépendance in central Libreville. President Barrow, accompanied by First Lady Fatou Bah Barrow, served as Chief Guest of Honour.The ceremony was attended by several African leaders, including Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Carlos Vila Nova, President of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe, and General Horta Nta, Interim President of Guinea-Bissau.Gabonese President Gen. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, presided over the official celebrations.Ahead of the parade, President Oligui Nguema inaugurated La Concorde, a memorial dedicated to Georges Damas Aleka, composer of Gabon’s national anthem. A representative of Aleka’s family received a posthumous award in honour of his contribution as one of the architects of modern Gabon.The main highlight was a parade by the armed and security services. Detachments from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Special Operations Forces, and Commandos marched past the Commander-in-Chief.Units of the Police also participated, including General Services, the Special Intervention Group, Riot Control, and the K-9 Unit. The Fire Service, Ambulance Service, and Medical Corps also took part.The second phase featured a display of military hardware. Dozens of armoured personnel carriers, rocket launchers, artillery, and anti-aircraft guns rolled through the boulevard, while military aircraft and helicopters conducted a flypast overhead.Service vehicles operated by the Armed Forces, Police, Paramilitary, and Engineering Corps were also displayed, marking the end of the parade.Following the ceremony, President Barrow and First Lady Fatou Bah Barrow were driven to the Presidential Palace for a reception hosted by President Oligui Nguema and First Lady Zita Oligui Nguema.

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