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Cabinet Approves Gambia’s Sport Bill 2025 

In a landmark move for Gambia’s sports, the Cabinet has approved the National Sports Bill 2024 paving the way for its tabling at the National Assembly for consideration.The Bill, presented last Thursday to the Cabinet by the Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie, was tabled in the form of a Cabinet Paper. After deliberations, it received the green light, marking a new chapter in the governance and development of sports in the country.The proposed legislation provides a comprehensive framework for better governance of sports, including the transformation of the National Sport Council into a Sport Authority, the rights of athletes, sport marketing, and management of associations, among others. Other major highlights of the Bill include the establishment of the Sport Tribunal, Anti-Doping Platform and Sport Development Fund.In reacting to the cabinet’s approval, Minister Badjie expressed optimism that the law will help in the general management of sport, including the creation of a special sport fund and a regulation to manage associations in line with the law and international best practices. 

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DG SIS Embarks on Nationwide Security Assessment and Critical Stakeholders Meeting Tour

The State Intelligence Service (SIS) wishes to inform the public that the Director General, Honourable Ousman Sowe, will embark on a nationwide security assessment tour from Tuesday, 28 October, to Saturday, 8 November.This 12-day tour is a cornerstone of the SIS’s commitment to enhancing inter-agency collaboration and strengthening the implementation of its flagship initiative—the National Security Belt Initiative (NASBI). NASBI focuses on strategic deployments and meaningful engagement with key stakeholders nationwide, with the goal of fostering public trust.During the tour, DG Sowe will inaugurate newly established SIS offices, lay foundation stones for upcoming facilities, visit food security projects, engage with media and meet regional stakeholders at the Governor’s Offices. These engagements will include district chiefs, regional security heads, and visits to key security installations across the regions.The SIS is driven by a steadfast desire to ensure that The Gambia continues to enjoy the peace and stability for which it is renowned. This year’s tour is a continuation of that commitment.Thus the tour is expected to provide DG Sowe with the opportunity for face-to-face discussions with regional authorities, religious as well as opinion leaders and Gambians at large on matters of national security.The SIS wishes to appreciate the goodwill, support and prayers it continues to enjoy from Gambians in all walks of Life.

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President Barrow Donates Tractors to Ndoofan and Toro Bah in the North Bank Region

The Deputy Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, Mr Alieu Loum, on behalf of His Excellency President Adama Barrow, handed over two (2) brand-new tractors with full implements to beneficiary communities in the North Bank Region (NBR) as part of ongoing efforts to boost rural agricultural production.The tractors were presented to the communities of Ndoofan and Toro Bah at no cost under the Programme for Accelerated Community Development (PACD), a flagship initiative of the Barrow Administration. This gesture is part of His Excellency’s direct response to requests made by the communities during the annual Meet the People Tour.In his remarks, Mr Loum called for unity and urged the beneficiaries to embrace unity and collectively utilise the tractors to increase production, productivity, and food security. He further called on them to take full ownership of the equipment to ensure its durability and lasting contribution to national food sovereignty.Mr Loum further advised the youths to be law-abiding citizens and to safeguard the peace and stability that the country is currently enjoying. He stressed that without peace and stability, there can be no meaningful development or food security; therefore, he urged them to jealously guard the nation’s peace and stability.Mr Loum expressed appreciation to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Department of Strategic Policy and Delivery (DSPD) for their role in implementing and coordinating the programme.The Governor of the North Bank Region, Mr Lamin Saidykhan, advised the communities to make good use of the gesture and avoid internal conflict.The Chiefs of Lower Nuimi and Lower Badibu, along with residents, thanked President Barrow for fulfilling his promise and pledged to utilise the tractors effectively to maximise their impact on agriculture and community development.Through PACD, the Government continues to allocate resources to strengthen the participation of women and youth in agriculture, while also expanding access to basic amenities and infrastructure. The programme aims to reduce rural–urban inequalities and foster inclusive growth across the country.

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President Barrow Effects Changes in Cabinet

His Excellency, Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of The Gambia, acting in accordance with sections 71 (1)  and 71(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia has, with immediate effect, reassigned Honourable Baboucar Ousmaila Joof, Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment to the Ministry of Defence.In the same vein, President Barrow has appointed Mr. Modou Ceesay, Auditor General as Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment.Modou Ceesay until this appointment was the Auditor General of the Gambia In a related development, Mr. Cherno Amadou Sowe, Director of Internal Audit, is appointed Auditor General and Mr. Masireh K. Drammeh is appointed Acting Director of Internal Audit.

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PRESIDENT BARROW PRESENTS 60 TRACTORS AND ASSORTED EQUIPMENT TO SELECTED FARMERS 

President Adama Barrow has on Saturday officially handed over the first batch of 60 tractors and assorted agricultural machinery and equipment to selected farmers across the country.  The tractors are the first batch of 180 machines procured by the government to enhance agricultural production, productivity and food security in The Gambia.  This presentation forms part of the government's long-term strategy to mechanise agriculture in The Gambia and promote commercial farming. The tractors are the first batch of 180 tractors procured by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security in partnership with Yonna Agribusiness company.The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture described this development as revolutionary as it would expand agricultural production, create jobs and enhance food security.The tractors are procured under an existing partnership with Yonna Group, a private financial institution which co-finances 50% of the cost, with payment spread over 4 years.  Such an arrangement, Muhamed Manjung, the Chairman of the Yonna Group believes underscores his company's deep connections to rural communities and commitment to strategic investment in agricultural mechanisation and rural economic transformation.Speaking on behalf of the beneficiary farmers Alhaji Ceesay commended President Barrow for pioneering agricultural transformation in The Gambia by providing tractors to local farmers.  Ceesay added that the government has also provided fertiliser to rural farmers at a ‘highly subsidised rate.’ These developments, Ceesay disclosed, now place rural farmers at a ‘greater advantage of attaining food security’ and contributing to national socio-economic development. He urged the beneficiaries to ensure the sustainable use of the tractors.President Adama Barrow described the development as a significant milestone in The Gambia's drive towards agricultural mechanisation and national food self-sufficiency. Since assuming office, the President has consistently expressed his desire to transform agriculture into a ‘mechanised, efficient, and business-oriented sector.’This presentation is expected to empower local farmers by providing them with the necessary modern equipment to engage in massive agricultural production to feed the nation and export the surplus to generate foreign exchange to drive growth and create jobs. His Excellency Adama Barrow commended all the parties involved for coming up with this financing arrangement to enhance sustainability, accountability and transparency. He, however, advised the beneficiary farmers to ‘take good care of these tractors and utilise them to make a difference in their lives.’  The President reassured that the government will continue to support farmers by providing them with the necessary tools and technical knowledge, as well as the expertise to enable them to realise their potential. He finally commended the Ministry of Agriculture and Yonna Group for the collaboration and partnership that has led to the successful presentation of the first batch of tractors.The presentation presided over by President Barrow at the State House, was attended by cabinet ministers, senior government officials, farmers and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector 

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PRESIDENT BARROW PAYS CONDOLENCES TO FAMILY OF LATE FORMER PRESIDENT BUHARI

His Excellency President Adama Barrow, accompanied by a high-powered delegation including the First Lady Fatou Bah Barrow, the Chief of Staff and Minister at the Presidency Mod K. Ceesay and the Minister of Regional Government and Lands Hamat N.K. Bah recently paid condolences to the family of the late former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari at his hometown of Daura in Katsina State, Northern Nigeria. Buhari died earlier this month at a hospital in London. The late former President Buhari is recognised for his invaluable efforts in defending democracy in the Gambia following the 2016 political impasse.President Barrow and the delegation were received by Barrister Abdullah Garba Faskari, the Secretary to the Katsina State government and other officials at Umaru Musa Yar'adua airport in Daura, Katsina State, Northern Nigeria.After the usual airport ceremonies, the Presidential motorcade made a one and a half hour drive to the residence of the late former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari to pay their respects.The President and delegation were received at the family home by the family of the late former President, including Buhari's eldest son, Yusuf Buhari, and his wife, former First Lady Aisha Buhari.The President paid tribute to the late former President for his commitment to democracy, explaining how Buhari played a pivotal role in defending democracy and the will of the Gambian people following the events of December 2016 when former President Yahya Jammeh refused to relinquish power. His decisive actions and charismatic leadership cement his legacy as a true pan Africanist who will forever be remembered in The Gambia.The President extended his condolences to the family and to the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the loss of what he called a brother, father figure, and friend.The Minister of Regional Government and Lands Hamat N.K. Bah also re-echoed those sentiments, adding that this was a very difficult moment for the President as he had close personal relations with the late former President.Hamat described former President Buhari's demise as a ‘great loss’ not only for Nigeria but Africa as a whole.Speaking on behalf of the family, Yusuf Buhari, son of the late former President, thanked President Barrow for his condolence visit, especially at this difficult period of mourning, adding that the family deeply appreciated his support and solidarity.President Barrow and the delegation later visited the grave of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, whose remains are interred in the family home, to pay his last respects and pray for the soul of the deceased to rest in Jannah.The President then left Daura, seen off by state officials and family members of General Muhammadu Buhari for the capital Abuja.An hour later the President arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where he was received by the Gambia's High Commissioner H.E. Muhammadu Papa Njai, his deputy Abdoulie Hydara, the Military Attache Commodore Assan Sarr and Mustapha Sosseh.President Barrow later paid a courtesy call on the Nigerian President, H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, at the Presidential Palace in Abuja. The two leaders discussed relations between the two countries and reaffirmed their joint commitment to strengthening Nigeria-Gambia ties. The president also extended condolences on behalf of the Gambian people to President Tinubu on the death of his predecessor, who died on the 13th of July 2025.

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Gambian Delegation Conducts Briefing Upon Arrival in Algiers

In an effort to ensure a successful participation of The Gambia in the inaugural African School Games in Algeria, the Gambian delegation, led by Chef De Mission Abdoukarim Sey, convened for a meeting to discuss important matters concerning Team Gambia.During the meeting, several participants, including the Chef De Mission, Athletics Coach Mariam Sallah, Lamin Jammeh, Secretary General of School Sports, and Alhasan Sey, a representative from the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, expressed gratitude to the government for its collaboration with the Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC) in registering The Gambia for this significant event. They highlighted the importance of this opportunity for student-athletes to display their talents on a higher platform.The speakers urged the athletes to remain focused on the competition and avoid distractions, emphasising the importance of upholding their roles as students. They encouraged the athletes to respect their coaches and heed their guidance, reinforcing that with dedication and commitment, success is within reach.The Chef De Mission reaffirmed his dedication to ensuring that all delegation members are provided with the necessary support and resources to facilitate a comfortable and productive stay, enabling them to fulfil their respective roles effectively.

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National People’s Party Announces Removal of Four Members

The ruling party has issued an official statement signed by the Deputy Spokesperson, Hon. Seedy S.K. Njie. The statement informs the “public, including officials, supporters, and members of the National People’s Party (NPP), that following an executive meeting convened on Friday, June 20, 2025, at the party headquarters in Bundung, the National Executive Committee has unanimously approved a resolution for the immediate dismissal of the following party officials from their respective roles:- Kebba Madi Bojang, Youth President - Lamin Jatta, Co-opted National Executive Member - Lamin Touray, Deputy Public Relations Officer, Youth Wing - Sainey Manneh, Regional Public Relations Officer, West Coast Region.”This decision, according to a press dispatch, was made “in response to actions and conduct exhibited by the aforementioned individuals, which were regarded as serious violations of the constitution and ethical standards of the National People’s Party.”The NPP urges all members and supporters to “maintain their commitment to the core principles, values, and constitution of the party.” “As we continue to pursue our collective mission of building a prosperous and democratic nation, we express our sincere gratitude to all members and supporters for their unwavering loyalty and dedication to the ideals of the NPP. Let us remain united and steadfast as we approach the upcoming electoral cycle with renewed purpose and solidarity.”

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CHINA AND AFRICA DEEPEN EDUCATIONAL TIES THROUGH HANDS-ON LEARNING EXCHANGES

China is opening new chapters in Africa-China cooperation this time in the classroom.Over 30 education officials and vocational school leaders from across Africa recently converged in Changsha for a 16-day seminar to strengthen governance in African vocational institutions. The seminar, hosted by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce and organised by Hunan International Business Vocational College, focused on sharing China’s experience in vocational training, school governance, and international collaboration.Fatou Janneh and Kumba Jammeh, representatives from The Gambia’s Ministry of Higher Education who were among the participants, emphasised the importance of hands-on education. They noted that skills development must align with the demands of industry to create sustainable employment opportunities for young people. The duo also expressed optimism about applying the lessons learned back home.Throughout the programme, participants toured key institutions and industries to understand how China links education to national development. The delegation also took part in the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo — one of the continent’s biggest platforms for investment and trade cooperation.Speaking during the seminar, Ouyang Ling, Project Manager for Future of Africa Seminar, said she hopes this platform will serve as a space for knowledge and idea sharing, helping to deepen China-Africa collaboration beyond vocational education.On June 13, the group also participated in the China-Africa Technical and Vocational Education and Training Cooperation Event, where they explored strategies for expanding TVET systems across the continent. Chinese officials reaffirmed their commitment to support Africa’s vocational education sector through governance exchange and long-term partnerships.The seminar, hopes to, among other things, build governance capacity and deepen China-Africa cooperation in the vocational training sector.

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GAMBIA-CHINA FORGE TRADE COOPERATION AT 4TH CHINA-GAMBIA EXPO

At the 4th China‑Africa Trade and Economic Expo in Changsha, the Gambia government and its Chinese counterpart unveiled a new Trade Cooperation Agreement Framework to deepen bilateral commerce and investment.Baboucarr O. Joof,  The Gambia's Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment highlighted progress in sanitary and phytosanitary partnership to strengthen aflatoxin control, stressing that “with these measures in place, we expect Gambian groundnut and cashew exports to enter the Chinese markets, tariff‑free.” Gambia's Foreign Affairs Minister, Momodou Tangara - in red tie - was among the delegatesJoof says the agreement framework will streamline approval processes, boost quality standards and open new value‑chain opportunities for Gambian agribusinesses.Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Mamadou Tangara reaffirmed the Gambia’s diplomatic stance, stating that “The Gambia is fully committed to the One‑China policy,” underscoring the country’s support for China’s sovereignty and its desire to expand cooperation beyond trade to education, technology and infrastructural development.Officials on both sides anticipate that the framework will pave the way for enhanced market access, increased Chinese investment in The Gambia’s processing facilities, and collaborative projects in logistics and cold‑chain storage. Stakeholders say the partnership marks a significant step toward more diversified, sustainable economic growth for Gambia.

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NO REPORTED FIRE INCIDENT AT NAWAZI TOWER HOTEL 

Gambian pilgrims staying at the Nawazi Tower Hotel in Makkah are continuing their daily activities without any reported disruptions. Reliable sources reaching GRTS have confirmed that there was no fire incident at the Nawazi Tower Hotel. Our correspondent on the ground has verified that all pilgrims are safe and secure in their accommodations. Initial confusion arose from reports of a fire at a nearby building, located just a few meters from the Nawazi Tower, which led to misunderstandings. However, all Gambian pilgrims at the Nawazi have been accounted for, and they are in good health and spirits. The Gambia government, through the Hajj Commission, said the safety and well-being of the pilgrims remain their top priority, as they put all ‘necessary measures to ensure the comfort of Gambian pilgrims during their stay in Makkah. 

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EID GATHERING IN CHINA: GAMBIAN AMBASSADOR CELEBRATES UNITY, URGES PATRIOTISM ABROAD 

In a vibrant show of hospitality and national pride, The Gambian Ambassador to China, His Excellency Masanneh Kinteh, hosted an Eid gathering that brought together members of the diplomatic corps alongside Gambian students and nationals living in China for an evening of celebration, connection, and cultural pride.Held in the spirit of Eid al-Adha, a time of reflection, generosity, and unity, the event highlighted the religious significance of the occasion and the ambassador’s commitment to fostering community and awareness of national identity among Gambians abroad.“We are proud of the way Gambians conduct themselves here in China. Compared to some of our counterparts, Gambians continue to be law-abiding, respectful, and purpose-driven. We encourage you to keep that spirit alive. You are representing your country wherever you are,” Ambassador Kinteh said. He emphasised that the doors of the Gambian Embassy in China remain open to all citizens, not just in times of difficulty but as a place for guidance, support, and national togetherness. The ambassador encouraged attendees to remain focused on their goals and to make the most of opportunities, especially in education and professional development, for the betterment of themselves and The Gambia.Strengthening Support: A Step Toward Consular CardsIn a forward-looking move, Ambassador Kinteh also shared updates on discussions held in South Korea about introducing consular cards for Gambians abroad. The proposed card would serve as an official identification tool for Gambian nationals, making it easier to access consular services, verify nationality, and ensure proper documentation while living outside the country. This initiative, once in place, could streamline embassy support and enhance the protection of citizens in their host countries.A Celebration of Home Away from HomeGuests at the event, including students, professionals, and diplomatic friends, were treated to various Gambian delicacies, uplifting conversations, and the familiar sounds and tastes of home.“Being here today reminds me of home. It’s more than a celebration. It’s a reminder that we are one people, regardless of where we are,” Bubacarr Gassama, a Gambian student based in China, stated.“It was refreshing to feel that connection again, especially during such an important time in our faith,” shared Sarjo Sowe.“The ambassador’s message about unity and representation really stayed with me. It reminded us all that how we behave abroad matters,” Adama Sarr said.More Than Just an EventAs the evening drew to a close, what lingered was not just a taste of great food and shared laughter but a renewed sense of patriotism, faith, and fellowship. The event reaffirmed that while Gambians may be scattered across the globe, their sense of community and love for the country remain strong. 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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