We wish to inform you that our normal transmission is currently interrupted due to significant electrical installation work being carried out at the GRTS TV station. We are diligently working to resolve this issue and anticipate resuming normal operations at the earliest opportunity.We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding during this time.
Continue Reading >>During his inaugural visit to Kenya to attend the 61st Independence Anniversary celebration of the Republic of Kenya, President Adama Barrow participated in Jumu’ah prayers at a Nairobi Mosque on Friday. He was accompanied by his delegation and the Kenyan Minister of Mines, Ali Hassan Joho E.G.H. President Barrow received a warm welcome from the Imam and congregation, expressing his gratitude for being honored as a member of their community. As a practicing Muslim, he emphasized the importance of attending Friday prayers wherever he travels. He also thanked President William Ruto for inviting him as the Guest of Honour for Kenya's Jamhuri Day celebration. Following the prayers, President Barrow enjoyed a traditional Kenyan Nyama Choma lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, the Gambian leader visited the Ken-Gen Geothermal Power Plant, recognised as the second largest in the world, located approximately a twenty-minute flight from Nairobi. The plant has a production capacity of 800 megawatts. Later that day, President Barrow met with Honourable Julius Migos Ogamba, the Kenyan Minister for Education, and his team at the hotel. Their discussions focused on potential collaborations in the education sector. With the necessary political will, President Barrow directed his team to engage in further discussions with experts to advance this partnership. The Gambia's Honorary Consul in Kenya, Ambassador Dr. John O. Kakonge, was present and assigned to follow up on the development of a Memorandum of Understanding. Additionally, the Consul accompanied representatives of the Gambian student body in Kenya for a courtesy call on President Barrow. This group was led by Abdou Rahim Jallow, a PhD student in Civil Engineering, along with Muhammed Lamin Kebbeh and Nyima Touray, who are studying in various fields. President Barrow commended the students for representing The Gambia positively. Currently, an average of thirty Gambian students are enrolled in Kenyan institutions. Before his departure on Saturday, President Barrow visited a model affordable housing scheme designed for low-income earners and residents of slums. He was led on a tour by Honourable Alice Wahome, the Minister for Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development, to observe the ongoing construction of high-rise buildings initiated by President Ruto. The construction site employs approximately 3,000 people each day. Reflecting on the visit, President Barrow expressed appreciation for the project’s potential to improve the lives of disadvantaged citizens, considering it a source of inspiration. President Barrow's official delegation to Kenya included Honourable Mod K. Ceesay, Minister and Chief of Staff; H.E. Jainaba Jagne, the outgoing Gambian Ambassador to the African Union; and Ousman Sowe, Director General of the State Intelligence Services of The Gambia.
Continue Reading >>State House, Banjul, 18th November 2024: The general public is hereby informed that His Excellency the President, acting under Section 71(1) of the Constitution, has created a new Ministerial portfolio within the office of the President. Alongside this role, the new Minister will also serve as the Chief of Staff to the President, a position now removed from the public service framework.As Chief of Staff and Minister at the Presidency, the office holder will serve as a key adviser and administrator to the President, ensuring efficient coordination of presidential priorities, engagements, and functions. The Chief of Staff will ensure the President's decisions are effectively implemented across all relevant ministries and departments. Additionally, the Minister will oversee the daily operations of the Office of the President and coordinate the work of presidential advisors, ensuring their recommendations align with the President’s agenda.Accordingly, and acting under section 71(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia, His Excellency the President is pleased to appoint Mod K. Ceesay as Chief of Staff and Minister at the Presidency, effective from 18th of November 2024.Additionally, in accordance with Section 71(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia, His Excellency the President has appointed Dr. Habibatou Drammeh as the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education and Mr. Lamin Jabbi as the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy.Merging the Roles of Secretary to Cabinet and Head of the Civil ServiceIn a similar vein, His Excellency the President, acting under Section 80 of the Constitution, has decided to merge the roles of Secretary General and Head of the Civil Service with the Secretary to Cabinet.This merger aims to enhance efficiency in fulfilling these traditionally separate roles. The Secretary to Cabinet guides policy development in Cabinet meetings, while the Head of the Civil Service ensures these policies are implemented across ministries and departments. Consolidating these roles with a single individual helps bridge gaps in understanding and ensures a smooth transition from policy to action. Furthermore, the decision is supported by the belief that having one person oversee both policy formulation at the Cabinet level and its execution in the civil service reduces bureaucracy and reinforces a stronger chain of accountability for delivering results.Accordingly, and acting under Section 168(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia, His Excellency the President is pleased to appoint Alieu Njie as Secretary to Cabinet and Head of Civil Service, effective from 15th of November 2024.
Continue Reading >>The UN Secretary General, António Guterres Friday received President Adama Barrow in his office on the sidelines of the UNGA79. The two discussed the impressive democratic gains and highly successful transitional justice programme in The Gambia. The President updated Secretary-General Guterres on three phases of the TRRC process, seeking to bring about justice, reparation, and reconciliation for victims.SG Guterres commended President Barrow’s leadership in the region and assured him of the UN support for The Gambia’s agenda toward sustainable development. The United Nations Boss encouraged the maintenance of a peaceful co-existence in and around The Gambia, adding “Maintain it that way Mr President”. President Barrow thanked the UN SG for the renewal of its peace-building support programme for The Gambia critical to delivering justice to victims. The President is also committed to working with ECOWAS, AUC and the UN during the processes.
Continue Reading >>President Barrow Wednesday hosts his Spanish counterpart, His Excellency Mr Pedro Sanchez Perez Castejon President of The Government of Spain, for a State Visit. The visit marks an important occasion as the two States signed two significant memoranda of understanding on Circular Migration and Security Cooperation. The two agreements are crucial for facilitating legal migration and ensuring stability and security.The Circular Migration agreement is expected to enable Gambians to legally migrate to Spain to work in industries to tackle labour shortages in Spain. On the other hand, the Security Cooperation Agreement aims to enhance cooperation in addressing security challenges, through the exchange of information and intelligence to combat organised crime and other security threats.By addressing key areas such as migration and security, both nations aim to unlock new opportunities for mutual benefit, enhancing their partnership.The State visit highlights the strengthening of ties between The Gambia and Spain, focusing on bilateral development.The state visit to The Gambia marks a milestone in the relationship between the two countries. The outcomes of this visit are anticipated to drive further progress in strengthening the partnership between The Gambia and Spain.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow continues his tour of industrial sites in the Central River Region with a visit to the Hamidou Jah Farm in Baya Bah in Sami District and the Swami Gambia Banana plantation in Lower Fulladu District.The tour accorded President Barrow the opportunity to assess first-hand the impact of these investments on the agricultural sector.Central River Region is steadily becoming the breadbasket of the country as private sector investors are changing The Gambia's agriculture landscape with a renewed focus on commercializationHamidou Jah is a business tycoon known in business circles as one of the most successful oil and general merchandise dealers. After making his fortune in business, Hamidou is now trying his hand at farming.He has just acquired a 120-hectare piece of land in Baya Bah, some 15km from the main Passamas Laminkoto Highway.President Barrow has made agricultural mechanization and commercialization a key pillar of his government's policy, with its potential to lead economic growth, enhance food security and create employmentMr Jah has already put up a team of agricultural experts from the Gambia and Pakistan, who are now working to transform his piece of land into one of the most productive.The President recognized Hamidou Jah's passion and his potential to contribute to the country's national food security, which has now become more urgent, given the current global dynamics.H.E. Adama Barrow tasked all the relevant government agencies to provide the private sector with the necessary support to help them realize their goals.The President and delegation also visited the Swami Gambia banana plantation in CRR South where he was briefed on the operations by the General Manager Mansukh Bhudiya.President Barrow was taken on a conducted tour of the farm; visiting the nursery shed where the right varieties are nursed under the suitable conditions and the water treatment and supply system which sources water from the River Gambia.The innovative, cost-effective and sustainable farming system has made the Swami banana plantation a model for farmers. It currently has 450 thousand plants, also making it the largest plantation in the country.The President said he is highly impressed with this model, and thanked the Swami Gambia management and staff for the work. The farm employs over 200 workers, mostly women, from Buruko and the neighbouring villages. The farm is expected to reach full capacity with an annual production of 8000 tons.
Continue Reading >>African Commission on Human and People’s Rights convened the opening of the 79th ordinary session of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights. The convention in Banjul, brought dignitaries and stakeholders across the African continent to discuss thematic matters for the sustainability of human rights advocacy.The 79th session of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights unveils a crucial theme anchored on ‘Educating an African fit for human rights.’The speech of Remy Ngoy Lumbu, chairperson of ACHPR, centred on the unrest and conflicts facing the African continent. He cited challenges affecting women, such as sexual violence and discrimination, as he urged the Gambia government to scale up efforts to repeal FGM laws.Addressing the convention, Dr. Mamadou Tangara, Gambia’s Foreign Affairs MinisterSaid the Gambia government is committed to promoting human rights to boost reforms that include the implementation of plans presented by the Truth Commission - TRRC.For over two decades of dictatorship, the Gambia under former President Yahya Jammeh witnessed a pervasive system of forceful disappearances and extrajudicial executions that required effective transitional justice and reforms to reshape the country’s emerging democracy.As enshrined in the Charter of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights, the commission is moving to strengthen human rights structure and mechanisms alongside the promotion of friendly settlement of disputes grappling the African continent.ACHPR is a charter established by the African Union to advocate for human rights, democracy and good governance on the continent. The commission has built a robust legacy of transformative impact, empowering individuals and organizations.
Continue Reading >>Lieutenant General Mamat O. Cham, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of The Gambia Armed Forces, along with the Defense Minister and a delegation from the military, commenced a nationwide tour of military deployments across the country. The objective of this tour is to facilitate direct interaction between the CDS and troops under his command, enabling him to assess their work environments, living conditions, and challenges firsthand. As the professional head of the Armed Forces, this visit signifies the first of its kind since Lieutenant General Cham's appointment as Chief of Defence Staff. His first stop was at Barra, where he visited the ECOMIG forces of Gancoy 7 at Fort Bullen, where he was accorded a warm welcome by the Ghanaian soldiers. CDS Cham was briefed in detail on the tasks and duties assigned to the Ghanaian troops stationed there. Additionally, he witnessed a special presentation by the Ghanaian ECOMIG forces, showcasing their methods for handling riot control operations within the North Bank region. CDS Cham commended the Ghanaian soldiers for their exemplary role, highlighting them as a contingent that epitomizes professionalism within the Ghanaian Armed Forces. He noted that the Ghanaian Armed Forces had successfully won the hearts and minds of the local population within the North Bank region. The Defense Minister also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of unity and professionalism among the Ghanaian soldiers in their duties. The delegation conducted a tour of the facility before proceeding to Njongon's military post. Activity at Njongon was distinctive as CDS Cham engaged with the local community, focusing on the imperative of maintaining and fostering peace. Villagers expressed gratitude to the Gambian troops stationed at Njongon, citing their presence as a source of safety and security. Army troops also had the opportunity to voice their concerns during discussions with the Army Chief. Issues raised included capacity building, improvement of hygiene standards, and motivation. This aligns with CDS Cham's objective of gathering firsthand information on their working conditions. CDS Cham assured the troops that their challenges would be ‘addressed,’ emphasizing the importance of the men in uniform as role models of discipline and commitment.
Continue Reading >>We regret to announce the passing of our former Director General, Malick Jeng. He passed away on Saturday morning at his residence. Mr Jeng has served with diligence and commitment as the D.G. of the State Broadcaster. He presided over the return of GRTS to satellite transmission. He equally worked to ensure GRTS covered major national and international events involving The Gambia.The late Malick Jeng was a devoted Muslim who was greatly concerned about staff welfare. A jovial and compassionate individual who treats the staff with so much respect and care. GRTS Management is saddened by the passing of Mr Jeng, who greatly contributed to the transformation of GRTS. Management extends its condolences to the family and the entire country and pray that Allah have mercy on his soul and grants him Janatul Firdausi.
Continue Reading >>The new Minister for Information Dr Ismaila Ceesay told journalists during the briefing that his ministry aims to renew commitment to the development of the media landscape to bolster relations between the press and the government.In a period of increasing misinformation and disinformation, the Ministry has also launched its website and social media handles. An initiative meant to boost the much-long-awaited access to information.Serving as the main mediator between the government and the public, the Information Minister said his ministry is committed to building the website of all other ministries – a strategic move to enhance relations with the media and chart a way forward for the government to communicate to the public. Access to information is a crucial component of a strong democracy building a strong, vibrant society that enables the media to deliver accurate and reliable information to the general public.Despite the lack of support from the government through subventions like other countries, the Gambian media plays a critical role in its drive to deliver accurate information to the public. Yankuba Saidy, the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Information Ministry, said the government is working to ensure the media outlets are subvented to be able to sustain their operations. Since the country transitioned to democracy and good governance in 2017, the Barrow administration has registered significant progress in terms of strengthening press freedom. This press briefing is meant to reset relations between the government and the media.
Continue Reading >>The Minister for Transport, Works and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah is on tour to assess the level of progress of road construction projects across the country.In what was day one of his tour, the minister inspected works on the ‘Hakalang Road’ in Nuimi and other access roads in ‘Baddibu’ in the North Bank Region to access first-hand. The famous ‘Hakalang Road’ linking communities in Upper and Lower Niumi, is an 84 km stretch that has already been completed according to contractors. The Minister said he was satisfied with the level of progress, and hoped that it would be completed within time. Several residents in the area who are the direct beneficiaries of the road expressed delight in the historic roads, describing them as a life-changing project for the people of Niumi. From ‘Niumi’ to ‘Badibou’ where the minister and delegation inspected the ‘Kerewan Njawara Access Road’ which connects 17 communities in the catchment area to the main highway. Day one of the tour climaxed with a visit to the Banni-Salikenni road. This particular project was awarded to a Gambian contractor. The Minister said he is equally impressed with the level of work done at 70 percent. The tour continues to the Central and Upper River Regions
Continue Reading >>The Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to The Gambia, H.E Liu Jin, presented a cheque for over two million dalasi to the Gambia Radio and Television Services, for the purchase of cameras for the State Broadcaster.The gesture is in response to a request for support by the Director General of GRTS Abdoulie Sey ahead of the OIC Summit in Banjul.The Chinese ambassador H.E Liu Jin said the role of the media is crucial, especially GRTS being the State Broadcaster.The Chinese diplomat also described the OIC summit as an important platform to discuss international affairs and for Muslim leaders to share their perspectives on peace, unity, and fairness across the world.The newly appointed Minister for Information Dr Ismaila Ceesay, who was in attendance, emphasised the need for a complete transformation of GRTS from equipment to staff welfare, amongst others.Minister Ceesay used the opportunity to thank China for being supportive of The Gambia and Africa at large, citing infrastructural projects like the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre built to the tune of 50 million dollars thanks to China.Director General Sey commended China for their timely intervention and continuous support towards GRTS' transformation. He further stated that the government of The Gambia under the leadership of H.E Adama Barrow, has strongly promised to support GRTS towards the coverage of the OIC Banjul summit, thanks to the intervention of the new Information Minister Dr Ismaila Ceesay. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is the second largest inter-governmental organization with a membership of 57 states spread over four continents. The 15th Heads of State and Government Summit will be held in The Gambia from 4th to 5th May 2024. GRTS as the National Broadcaster has been handed the lead role of covering the events live and providing feeds for international channels.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>
