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Gambia's Environment Minister Calls for Climate Finance Access as COP30 Opens in Belém, Brazil

The 30th United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP30) officially opened in Belém, Brazil, bringing together global leaders, negotiators, and stakeholders to accelerate climate action.Honourable Rohey John Manjang, The Gambia's Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, who is leading The Gambia’s delegation, called for access to climate finance to strengthen the country’s resilience and adaptation to climate change.“The Gambia has developed ambitious climate policies and strategies, but access to adequate and predictable financing remains crucial for achieving our national targets,” she said. This year’s COP focuses on turning commitments into concrete implementation, with priorities including mobilising large-scale climate finance, enhancing global climate governance, accelerating Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and scaling up adaptation efforts in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva the President of Brazil, in his opening address emphasised that, “for this year’s COP to matter, it must be the COP of Truth and Implementation. We are moving in the right direction, but at the wrong speed. We must turn commitments into concrete actions,” he said. The host presidency has set an ambitious goal of mobilising US$1.3 trillion annually by 2035 to support developing countries in meeting their climate goals.For nations like The Gambia, access to climate finance remains a critical enabler of adaptation, supporting initiatives that build climate-resilient agriculture, restore mangrove ecosystems, protect coastlines, and enhance water resource management. However, limited technical capacity, complex access procedures, and data challenges are reportedly hindering progress.Minister Manjang reaffirmed The Gambia’s unwavering commitment to climate action and called on the global community to work collaboratively to ensure that no country is left behind in the fight against climate change.

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ECOWAS and Jam’iyyatu Ansariddeen Address Extremism in West Africa

The ECOWAS Commission, in partnership with Jam’iyyatu Ansariddeen Attijaniyya, organised the West African Islamic Conference on Security and Governance at the ECOWAS Parliament in Abuja. This significant conference took place from Tuesday, November 4, to Thursday, November 6, 2025. It brought together representatives from Islamic organisations, government officials, traditional and religious leaders, scholars, policymakers, youth, and regional partners to create actionable strategies aimed at countering terrorism, violent extremism, and governance challenges across West Africa and the Sahel.Focusing on the theme "The Role of Islamic Organisations in Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism in West Africa and the Sahel," the conference underscored the urgent need to strengthen governance, protect vulnerable children in traditional Islamic education systems, and foster collaboration between state and non-state actors in promoting peace, social cohesion, and regional stability.

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  • ECOWAS
  • November 6, 2025 10:16
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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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  • MoYS
  • October 28, 2025 09:22
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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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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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