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STRENGTHENING HEALTHCARE DELIVERY: UNFPA & HSA HAND OVER MEDICAL EQUIPMENT TO HEALTH MINISTRY

The Ministry of Health recently received a consignment of medical equipment from the United Nations Fund for Population Affairs (UNFPA) and the Health Security Agency(HSA) based in the United Kingdom. The donation is earmarked to strengthen efficacy in healthcare services across the country.The medical equipment includes a consignment of 60 delivery beds, five anesthetic machines, 10 oxygen containers and 1000 dignity beds amongst a host of others procured through the China Aid Project, aimed at strengthening effective healthcare services across the country.Ndeye Rose Sarr, the UNFPA country representative said ‘UNFPA will reaffirm its unwavering commitment to supporting the government of the Gambia in the provision ofessential health services, especially for representative health and rights of women.’The handing over of these medical items also marks the culmination of the china aid Project, which has been providing support mechanisms in diverse areas building human capital including sexual and reproductive health services and protection of healthcare workers during the COVID pandemic.The Chinese ambassador to the Gambia, Liu Jin, said, China is one of the strongest development partners of Gambia. The ambassador added that since 2020,’ the Chinese government has donated six million dollars worth of assistance to the Gambia’s healthsector, in the form of projects and medical equipment supplies.’Doctor Ahmadou Lamin Samateh, Gambia’s Health Minister hailed the Chinese missionin the Gambia and UNFPA for the support he said will ‘ease critical healthcareconditions.’‘The items we received here are remarkable. 60 delivery beds, that's very big. What that means is that, these women now can deliver on a proper delivery bed. The staff will beable to deliver the women without straining their back, that has been a very difficult thingin this country,’ he added.In a separate but similar engagement the National Public Health Laboratory under the auspices of the Ministry of Health, also received a consignment of bio safety and lab equipment from the Health Security Agency based in the UK.Sheriffo Jagne, the director of the National Public Health Laboratory said the donatedlab items will critically uplift the capacity of bio laboratory services.Dr Bunmi Negedu Momoh, speaking at the handover ceremony on behalf of the UKHealth Security Agency said her organisation is committed to supporting sustainable development in the Gambia.The medical equipment handed to the Health Ministry will significantly complement the government's efforts to improve health services, curtailing the burden of inadequate medical care and emergencies across various hospitals in the country.

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STATE-OWNED ENTERPRISE COMMISSION VISITS GRTS

The State-Owned Enterprise Commission (SOE) Commissioners, who are on a fact-finding mission, visited the Gambia Radio and Television Services to understand the achievements and challenges facing the National Broadcaster in its mandate to provide services to the public. Charles Mustapha Camara, the Board Chair of GRTS, who received the delegation at the GRT headquarters on the MDI Road in Kanifing, hailed the partnership between GRTS and SOE Commission as invaluable, highlighting the importance of the visit.‘This visit provides us with an opportunity to share our progress, challenges and vision for the future. We look forward to receiving your guidance, suggestions and continuous support as we strive to improve our services and expand our reach in this rapidly evolving media landscape,’ he said. ‘We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and ethical journalism. We are continuously innovating, striving for excellence and ensuring that our services remain accessible to all Gambians regardless of their location, background or social status’ the Board Chair added.After a closed-door meeting, GRTS officials took commissioners on a tour of the technical operation units where the team inspected the studios, control room and data centre. Ousainou Ngum, the chairman of the SOE Commission, shared positive impressions of the National broadcaster. ‘It has been a source of huge education for us. We certainly had an image of GRTS before we came, but seeing what they work with, they are managing to modernize in a not-so-modernized world, and they are doing so diligently and delivering quality programming in that process. That has been quite moving for us’ he stated. The commissioners also visited the State Broadcasters radio station at Mile 7, to inspect the country's first broadcasting outfit that was established in 1971.The visiting delegation toured the radio facilities, which are also grappling with age-old machines unable to catch up with modern-day broadcasting. SOE Commissioners were able to gather first-hand information on efforts to transform and modernize GRTS operations amidst obsolete equipment and financial constraints. ‘Our task is to make sure that whatever service is provided is fit for purpose for the population of which we are also part. We are all citizens who benefit from these services so we need to make them work for the benefit of everyone.’‘We have come, listened and learned. We will go and incorporate that, have a conversation among ourselves and come back to them. It's an ongoing conversation to build better for the future,’ Ousainou Ngum said.At the end of the tour, SOE Commissioners reflected on the historic contributions of the radio, as the main source of news, current affairs and entertainment for audiences across the country. Both sides expressed a stronger commitment to deepening collaboration to address pressing challenges facing the national broadcaster.The SOE Commission was established in 2023 through an act of parliament with an oversight mandate to oversee, regulate and support the effective management of the twelve state-owned enterprises in the Gambia, of which GRTS is part. 

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2025 HAJJ PACKAGE PEGS AT D525,000

The National Hajj Commission has set the 2025 Hajj package at five hundred and twenty-five thousand dalasi.

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GOVERNMENT AWARDS OVER 1,000 SCHOLARSHIPS TO TVET STUDENTS

 The Government of The Gambia, through the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (MoHERST), in collaboration with the World Bank and the RISE Project, has awarded 1,087 scholarships to students across 25 public and private Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. The total value of these scholarships amounts to GMD 396,761,321.50.Each scholarship provides $400 per student, covering tuition fees and stipends, with additional financial assistance offered to students from regional TVET centres to address transportation and accommodation costs.During the award ceremony, President Adama Barrow emphasized the government's commitment to implementing a robust monitoring system aimed at achieving an 80% employability rate among the scholarship recipients. This initiative is designed to address the pressing issue of youth and women unemployment in the country.President Barrow also outlined further initiatives aimed at enhancing the capabilities of TVET institutions. He announced the forthcoming launch of Window One (1) of the Fund, which will offer grants to TVET institutions for the development of high-quality infrastructure and equipment. The objective is to bolster the technical and teaching capacities of vocational training centres.Additionally, Window Three (3) is set to be launched in the last quarter of 2025 to provide startup support and mentorship for the youth. These three funding windows are strategically designed to elevate the quality of The Gambia's TVET programs to align with the needs of the labour market.The awards ceremony, which celebrated the potential of youth and their educational pursuits, was graced by the presence of His Excellency President Adama Barrow at the Sir Dawda International Conference Centre.

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CONFIRMED, RAMADAN BEGINS ON MARCH 1 2025

The Gambia Supreme Islamic Council has confirmed that the Crescent has been sighted in Garawol in the Upper River Region. It has also confirmed receiving verified information about the sighting of the Crescent in Mali, Senegal, Niger, Ivory Coast, and Saudi Arabia. This officially confirms that the Muslim holy month of Ramadan will begin on Saturday, 1st March 2025, in The Gambia. The Management and Staff of GRTS wish to seize this opportunity to wish Muslims around the world a blessed and peaceful Ramadan.

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  • GRTS
  • February 28, 2025 10:16
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SPORTS COMMENTATOR DONATES AVOCADO SAPLING TO GRTS SPORTS UNIT

On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, Besenty Gomez, a prominent contributor to the Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS) Multisports programme, graciously donated an avocado sapling to the GRTS Multisports unit. This gesture aligns with the theme of World Radio Day 2025: "Radio and Climate Change." Mr Gomez emphasized the importance of encouraging local sports administrations to engage in tree planting initiatives at their respective venues, thereby contributing to broader efforts aimed at mitigating climate change.The presentation took place in the studios of GRTS TV after the programme. He remarked, “To achieve true independence, one must be self-reliant. This tree symbolizes that. As a fruit-bearing tree, its planting will yield fruits that can be consumed, and the seeds can be utilized for further planting, allowing for multiplication.” Mr. Gomez further noted, “Trees provide essential shade and oxygen. It is crucial to recognize the reality of climate change, and it is imperative for individuals, including those within the sports community, to actively participate in climate change adaptation initiatives.” The sapling will be planted on the premises of the National Broadcaster's headquarters, located on MDI Road in Kanifing.

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  • GRTS
  • February 20, 2025 01:16
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TRADE MINISTRY, BAKERS UNION REACH TENTATIVE AGREEMENT

The initial discussions between the National Bakers Union and the Ministry of Trade have resulted in an agreement to maintain the current price of bread at D10 until the rationale behind the proposed increase from the Bakers Union is clearly defined.A technical review committee, composed of officials from the Ministry of Trade, members of the Consumer Protection Competition Commission, and representatives from the National Bakers Union, is scheduled to conduct a nationwide assessment of the pricing structure for bread.Furthermore, discussions between the Bakers Union and the Ministry of Trade aimed at reaching a consensus on bread pricing will continue weekly following the Independence Celebrations.

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  • GRTS
  • February 17, 2025 11:16
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Independence Celebrations Coverage Alert

As we prepare to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of our nation's independence, we are pleased to announce that we will provide live coverage of the day's significant events.This coverage will include the arrival of dignitaries at the airport, a vibrant march parade, the Independence Athletics competition at Serrekunda West Park, and the evening Wrestling Competition.We invite you to join us throughout the day for thorough coverage of the country’s 60th Independence Anniversary celebrations.Wishing everyone a joyous and meaningful Independence Day.

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  • GRTS
  • February 17, 2025 11:10
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GRTS EMERGES VICTORIOUS IN CYBERSECURITY DRILL

The GRTS IT staff demonstrated exceptional skill and teamwork, securing first place on the final day of the Cybersecurity Training conducted by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority. This achievement not only highlights the team’s unwavering dedication but also underscores their expertise and commitment to advancing digital security protocols within the organization. GRTS Management extends heartfelt congratulations to the IT team for their remarkable performance. They reaffirm their ongoing support for the team’s efforts, ensuring that the institution continues to excel and achieve its highest objectives in the ever-evolving digital landscape. This commitment is crucial as GRTS strives to enhance its cybersecurity measures and maintain the integrity of its operations in a critical industry.

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  • GRTS
  • February 17, 2025 12:05
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URGENT NOTICE TO OUR VALUED VIEWERS AND FOLLOWERS

We want to bring to your immediate attention that recent posts circulating a video featuring a purported AI voice prompt on the website 1XGames, which claims to showcase GRTS content, should be disregarded. We would like to clarify that the audio content of this video, generated by artificial intelligence, has no affiliation whatsoever with GRTS or any of our official content on Facebook or any other online platforms. This material does not reflect our standards or the integrity of our programming.The management of GRTS is dedicated to its core mission of informing, educating, and entertaining our audience with high-quality, authentic content. We assure you that any official updates, news, or entertainment will always be communicated through our verified channels.We encourage you to follow us via our television broadcasts, radio channels, and our official online platforms for the latest news and updates directly from GRTS. Thank you for your ongoing support and trust.

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  • GRTS
  • February 14, 2025 02:02
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PRESS RELEASE

 AUB 2nd Media Summit on Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Summit in Dakar As the world gears up to celebrate Radio Day, the African Union of Broadcasting (AUB), in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the Senegalese Radio Television (RTS), is organizing a summit on Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction 13th -14th February in Dakar Senegal. The forum under the theme "Reaching the last mile: Radio for Climate Action" seeks to explore the important role of radio in the fight against climate change. The Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, is scheduled to lead a high-powered Gambian delegation to the summit comprising The Director General of GRTS, Abdoulie Sey, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Information Amie Njie, the   Director of Admin and Human Resources GRTS Yankuba Jatta and the Director of Radio Programmes GRTS Haddy Badji.A press release from the AUB states that radio remains an essential tool to disseminate vital information on climate change and encourage prevention given its resilience, portability and ability to reach a wide audience, especially in rural areas and isolated communities.

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  • AUB
  • February 10, 2025 12:41
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AFRICAN SPORTS MINISTERS PAY COURTESY CALL TO PRESIDENT BARROW AT STATE HOUSE

Following the successful conclusion of the Inter-regional African Ministerial Meeting on Anti-Doping in Sports, held at the International Conference Centre, representatives from the sub-region visited President Barrow on Tuesday afternoon to provide an update on the meeting's agenda.The primary objective of the anti-doping meeting was to establish a collaborative network aimed at enhancing sports governance, thereby promoting clean sports and upholding the ethics and integrity of athletes against the use of prohibited substances.On behalf of the government and the people of The Gambia, President Barrow expressed his deep appreciation to the delegates for selecting The Gambia as the host for this significant event. He emphasized the crucial role of sports in fostering economic growth and national development, noting its capacity to promote unity and strengthen national cohesion.As a signatory to the anti-doping convention, alongside 191 other countries, President Barrow assured the delegates of his unwavering commitment to supporting efforts that safeguard the integrity of sports. He underscored that achieving success in this field necessitates the implementation of robust safeguarding policies.The Minister for Youth and Sport, Honourable Bakary Y. Badjie, expressed gratitude for the support extended by the President and the government towards initiatives that advance sports development. He advocated for the implementation of drug testing across all sporting levels to eliminate the use of performance-enhancing substances, highlighting the detrimental impact that substance abuse has on athletes and national achievements.The meeting also featured ministers from various sub-regions, who conveyed their gratitude to the President for his supportive role during the event and his visionary approach to this important agenda.

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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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