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UNIVERSITY OF THE GAMBIA GRADUATES 1,134 STUDENTS IN 14TH CONVOCATION

The University of The Gambia has graduated 1,134 students in its 14th convocation ceremony. The event was presided over by Gambia’s President Adama Barrow who also the chancellor of the University of the Gambia.Abdourahman Barry graduated as the overall best student [valedictorian] with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (Summa Cum Laude).Other recipients of awards included Juldeh Jallow who won a goal medal as she came out as the overall best graduating student with BSc in Chemistry [Summa Cum Laude]. Saikou Jeng won silver with BSc in Economics [Summa Cum Laude] and Paul Sanyang BSc in Mathematics [Summa Cum Laude] with bronze. In the field of Medicine, Victoria Alex came out as the most outstanding student, followed by Muhammed Gaye and Adama Sumbunu third.In Mathematics, Abdourahman Barry [valedictorian] was the overall best graduating student with BSc in Mathematics [Summa Cum Laude], Cherno H. Barry came out second BSc in Mathematics [Summa Cum Laude] and Bunja Komma won bronze with BSc in Mathematics [Summa Cum Laude].Presiding over the ceremony, the chancellor of the University of The Gambia H.E Adama Barrow said the University of The Gambia has been contributing greatly to national development as it continues to produce graduates serving at various government and private institutions. The president further reiterated his governments' commitment to ensuring quality improves at the institute. Professor Herbert Robinson who was appointed the vice-chancellor of the University of The Gambia on 4th January 2022, in his first convocation address, assured the graduates of the University's continuous support. The vice-chancellor further said he is ready to build on the foundation laid by his predecessors.This 14th convocation ceremony means the University of The Gambia now graduated 8,610 students since its establishment in 1999. Eight GRTS staff also graduate this year.

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FISHERIES OPERATORS TAKE ACTION TO PROTECTI GAMBIA'S FISHERIES RESOURCES

Fisheries experts are projecting that the Gambia risks the extinction of her limited marine resources unless and until strong legal instruments are put in place for effective regulation. The concern prompted a round table discussion of the national association of fisheries operators and key players in the fisheries industry. The convergence is aimed at creating awareness on the fisheries act and legal instruments to ensure effective protection of marine resources. The president of the association Fatou Pierre Choye outlined the necessity of the gathering, and underscored strategies needed to regulate the sector. The representative from the department of fisheries explained the unprecedented exploitation of fisheries resources. He attributed it to the absence of inappropriate legal instruments in place to ensure sustainable management of marine resources. The officials reviewed the legal fisheries instrument and act making them appropriate for the sustainability of fisheries resources  

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More Pfizer vaccine arrive in The Gambia

The United States government has donated over 100,000 Pfizer vaccine to the Gambia to help vaccinate more people against covid-19. The consignment was received by the minister of health Dr Ahmadou Lamin Samateh at the Banjul international airport. This the latest consignment of vaccines donated by the US government. The deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Banjul said the vaccine has been proven safe for use against covid-19. The WHO and UNICEF country representatives, Dr Desta Tiruneh and Gardon Jonathan Lewis applaud the supply of vaccines especially in Africa which is said to have the lowest vaccination coverage. The diplomats said there is need to increase the vaccination coverage in the Gambia as supply is no longer an issue. The Minister of Ahmadou Lamin Samateh said the Pfeizer vaccine can now be stored in the country and disclosed that over 20 percent of the population has been vaccinated. He said covid-19 cases and mortality have gone down, and warned that COVID is still present and requires safety measures.  

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GAMBIA BEACH VOLLEYBALL TEAM RANKED TOP IN AFRICA

Gambia beach volleyball male team of Sainey Jawo and Mbye Babou Jarra are ranked first in Africa and 92nd in the world in the latest FIVB ranking. This is the first time for any Gambian team in any sporting discipline to top any ranking in the continent. Qatar based Sainey Jawo and Mbye Babou Jarra are the Champions of African games and bronze medallist of CAVB continental cup finals. The two will represent The Gambia in the Commonwealth Games beach volleyball qualifiers in Ghana later this month.Abie Kujabie, the most capped female beach volleyball player, will pair with debutant Anna Marie Bojang, for the Gambia in the volleyball 2 aside competition. Anna had represented The Gambia at the World beach games 4 aside beach volleyball in Qatar in 2019.The Commonwealth Games beach volleyball qualifiers will be held in Accra, Ghana from March 25th to 29th 2022. The winner will qualify to the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 in July.  

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FSQA sensitises policy makers on CODEX Alimentarius

The vice president Dr. Isatou Touray took part in a high level sensitization workshop for policy makers on codex Alimentarious held at the sir Dawda conference center in Bijilo. Codex Alimentarious is the body responsible for the development of international food standards, guidelines and codes of practice.  The sensitization workshop aims to ensure international acceptance of food in terms of safety and quality to ensure fair trade practices.Public concern over food safety puts CODEX at the centre of global debates and has far reaching implications in resolving trade disputes. The Gambia has applied for Codex Trust Fund II based on the assessment of the existing Codex situation.   

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Gambian cares for dozens of orphans in Kinshasha, DRC.

Kinshasa, a city of nearly 20 million inhabitants, one man from The Gambia is making a difference. Bouna Batchilly, a native of Garawol who arrived in the DRC nearly 30 years ago to search for greener pastures was moved by the plight of children in this huge and bustling city. Bouna singlehandedly adopted over 500 abandoned children and orphans, through his foundation, giving them hope and a future.Many of them have now traveled to Europe, the US and Middle East. For him giving back to a country that gave him so much gives him great personal satisfaction. As he beams with happiness and satisfaction, Bouna believes every child deserves an opportunity to realise their potential. Nearly 30 years running the foundation, Bouna has won praise from several humanitarian organisations and embassies in Kinshasa who often render help. There are currently more than 30 children living with him, cared for by his wife and staff employed by the foundation. His efforts have drawn admiration from the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Gambians Abroad Dr Mamadou Tangara who visited the orphanage accompanied by the Secretary General and head of the civil service Noah Touray and the Honorary Consul Ansumana Tunkara.  Bouna is also the President of the Gambia Association in Kinshasa, working with likeminded Gambians to promote the interests and welfare of the community in Congo. His wish is to leave a legacy in the Congo, and believes that Gambians wherever they are exhibit that humane spirit of love, care and solidarity.  

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The ministry of petroleum and energy concludes forum on energy Charter

The ministry of petroleum and energy in collaboration with the energy charter secretariat in Brussels on Tuesday wrapped-up a two-day forum on energy charter.  The workshop was meant to raise awareness on the energy charter treaty as well as present the status of the Gambia’s accession to the energy charter treaty.The forum availed participants better understanding of the energy charter process and presented with the energy investment risk assessment 2021 extended profile of the country.During her deliberation at the forum, the energy charter secretariat-investment coordinator Ms. Ishita Pant explained the benefit and contribution to the energy landscape of Gambia and ECOWAS.In his closing remarks, Lamin Camara the permanent Secretary at the ministry of Petroleum and energy said the two-day gatherings would propel the Gambia energy sector higher.  

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PURA sensitises operators on online information system for Tanker Trucks

The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority PURA Thursday held a day sensitisation forum for stakeholders in the petroleum products road transport business sector. The synergy is anticipated to enlighten business operators on the newly introduced PURA online information system for Tanker Trucks. The event will also deal with crucial licensing requirements on the petroleum road transport business as well as PURA guidelines on the existing testing regime on road tankers and vehicles transporting petroleum in the Gambia. 

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NDMA validates multi-hazard profile of the Gambia 2022-2024

The National Disaster Management Agency with support from the UNDP Thursday convened a day long validation meeting on the national multi-hazard profile of the Gambia 2022-2024. The forum held in Kanifing will allow the stakeholders to formulate a robust document helping the country's response to disaster preparedness and risks reduction. The draft national multi hazard profile of the Gambia identified 6 major reoccurring hazards such as flood, disease outbreak, drought, fire outbreak, windstorm and pest invasion.  When validated the document  is expected to serve as a tool to enhance effectiveness of disaster preparedness and risk reduction in identifying hazards within the country.

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Former Jungler Bai Lowe Charged in Germany

The Authorities in Germany have arrested and charged former soldier Bai Lowe with murder and attempted murder over crimes committed in The Gambia. Lowe is also accused of the 2004 killing of Deyda Hydara, editor of The Point newspaper. Bai Lowe was a driver of the patrol team known as junglers between December 2003 and December 2006. Testimonies by some members of the junglers revealed that the team carried out several targeted killings, torture and enforced disappearances ordered by former President Yahya Jammeh. The case is being brought on the principle of universal jurisdiction, which allows a foreign country to prosecute crimes against humanity, including war crimes and genocide, regardless of where they were committed. Bai Lowe was arrested in Hanover in March 2021 and being held in pre-trial detention since.

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IEC chairman suggests Paper ballot for Elections in the Gambia

The Chairperson of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) Alieu Momarr Njai said the Gambia should abandon the marbles and drums system and migrate to paper ballots. Mr Njai revealed that the IEC spent over two million dalasis on each candidate’s ballot drums in the 2021 Presidential elections. He also hinted that the upcoming National Assembly Elections would incur a similar cost. The IEC chairman said ballot papers are more accurate, cheaper and easy to use. He made the remarks on Wednesday at the start of a training session organised by the commission for civil society actors and the media.

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President Barrow returns from a two day working visit to DRC

The President His Excellency Adam Barrow return's from Kinshasa the Democratic Republic of Congo, after a two working visit. President Barrow was received on arrival by the Ministers of Defense, the Interior and Service chief's. The Gambian Leader told GRTS at the Banjul International airport  that his visit the Democratic Republic of Congo was aimed at enhancing diplomatic and trade connection between the two countries. President Barrow underscored the need to strengthen and enhance diplomatic and trade ties with the Democratic Republic of Congo, noting the presence of a large number of Gambians in that country. Commenting on the steep rise in prices of basic commodities President Barrow said his government will continue to work closely with stakeholders in the sector to stabilize the situation. He used the opportunity to appeal to Gambian's to invest in Agriculture. He said his government has requisite policies and programs to transform the Agricultural sector thereby making it responsive to the food needs of the country. President Barrow also renewed commitments to expand and consolidate bilateral ties between Africa countries to advance trade, peace and development in the continent.Given the Gambia's geographic location, the President indicated that the countries could explore collaboration in aviation transport to make the country a hub in the aviation industry.  

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PRESIDENT BARROW PERFORMS UMRAH IN HOLY CITY OF MAKKAH

His Excellency President Adama Barrow and his delegation have arrived in the Holy City of Makkah from Medina to perform Umrah, the lesser pilgrimage.Dressed in Ihram, a symbol of purity and humility, the President and his delegation travelled to Makkah aboard a two-hour train journey to Islam’s holiest city.Consular Ebou Ndure said the trip to Makkah marks the climax of the President’s spiritual journey, which has so far included visits to the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, Masjid al-Quba, and the Mountains of Uhud.Inside the VIP coach, the atmosphere was calm and reflective, filled with religious chants as the President reaffirmed his intention to perform Umrah in accordance with Islamic teachings and traditions.On arrival in Makkah, President Barrow was received by officials from the Royal Palace and escorted to the Royal Guest House overlooking the Holy Kaaba.Shortly after, he was led to Masjid Al-Haram to begin the Umrah rites. The President first performed Maghrib prayers at the Holy Kaaba alongside members of his delegation.He then proceeded to perform Tawaf, circling the Holy Kaaba seven times, aboard specially designated vehicles reserved for heads of state and dignitaries.Following Tawaf, President Barrow performed Sa’i, walking between Safa and Marwa. The nearly 2km journey, completed seven times, relives the footsteps of Hajara, wife of Prophet Ibrahim, who made the same trek in search of water for her son, Prophet Ismail.After completing all prescribed rituals, the President returned to the Kaaba to perform Ishaa congregational prayers, marking the conclusion of the Umrah rites.President Barrow was later escorted back to the Royal Guest House. He is expected to travel to Jeddah for a series of engagements, including a meeting with members of the Gambian community in Saudi Arabia.

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PRESIDENT BARROW MEETS AFDB PRESIDENT TAH TO DEEPEN INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENERGY PARTNERSHIP

President Adama Barrow on Friday received a high-level delegation from the African Development Bank Group, led by its President Dr Sidi Ould Tah, at State House. The two sides reviewed the existing partnership between The Gambia and the AfDB and discussed ways to deepen cooperation in infrastructure, electricity, and other priority development areas.Dr Ould Tah was accompanied to the State House by the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Sidi Keita. Speaking to reporters after the talks, the AfDB President expressed appreciation to President Barrow for The Gambia’s strong support to the Bank and for the “fruitful partnership over the years.”Dr Ould Tah reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to continue supporting The Gambia to deliver on key sectors and projects aimed at improving the quality of life and livelihoods of citizens. He commended The Gambia under President Barrow’s leadership for its “impressive performance” in economic management, domestic resource mobilisation, and reforms of key state institutions.“We also congratulated the Gambian leader on the country’s microfinance performance, growth, domestic resource mobilisation, and reforms related to state enterprises and procurement,” Dr Ould Tah said. “The Gambian Leader gave us clear direction on the priorities of his government and his development vision for the country. The African Development Bank Group is keen to provide funding and support across all sectors to match that orientation.”Minister of Finance Sidi Keita said The Gambia remains committed to working with development partners like the AfDB to strengthen growth and development. He described the visit as “a strong vote of confidence and trust in The Gambia.”Dr Ould Tah and his delegation will remain in The Gambia for several days. They are scheduled to hold engagements with officials from various government sectors to review existing cooperation and explore new areas of partnership with government and other stakeholders.

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VP JALLOW MEETS GUINEA-BISSAU COMMUNICATION MINISTER 

The Guinea-Bissau Minister of Social Communication and Government Spokesperson, Hon. Dr Abduramane Turé, has paid a courtesy call on The Gambia’s Vice President, His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, at State House. The visit is aimed at strengthening ties between Bissau and Banjul. Minister Turé was accompanied to the Vice President’s office by Guinea-Bissau’s Ambassador to The Gambia, Luís Camara de Barros, alongside The Gambia’s Minister of Information, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, Permanent Secretary Codu L. Jabang, and Director of Information Services, Aisha Davis.The delegation held a closed-door meeting with the Vice President. Afterwards, Minister Turé addressed the press on key issues discussed.“I did not come to discuss a specific agenda with His Excellency the Vice President. I'm here to brief him on the core objectives of my mission to The Gambia, and further update him on the current status of bilateral cooperation in the field of media and social communication,” he said.Minister Turé commended the cordial relations between Guinea-Bissau and The Gambia, describing them as strong and mutually beneficial.The Guinea-Bissau official also praised the Vice President for the warm reception, saying VP Jallow reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the development agendas of both countries. He expressed optimism that the visit will further deepen bilateral ties.

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PRESIDENT BARROW ARRIVES IN SAUDI ARABIA FOR SIX-DAY VISIT

His Excellency President Adama Barrow has arrived in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for a six-day official visit.The President is accompanied by a high-powered delegation comprising First Lady Sarjo Mballow Barrow, the Chief of Staff and Minister of the Presidency Aliu Loum, and the Commissioner General of The Gambia Revenue Authority Yankuba Darboe.President Barrow was received on arrival by His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Nahar Al Saud, Governor of Madina, His Excellency Mambury Njai, The Gambia’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Deputy Ambassador Omar Baldeh, and Consul General at The Gambia’s Consulate in Madina, Ebou Ndure.Following his arrival, President Barrow held a brief tete-a-tete with Prince Saud at the Airport VVIP lounge. The President thanked the Saudi government for the warm hospitality accorded to him and his delegation.For his part, Prince Saud welcomed the President and his delegation to the Kingdom and reassured them of the Saudi government’s support to ensure a successful visit.President Barrow is expected to begin official activities in Madina on Friday with prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque and a visit to the Rawdah, where the Prophet PBUH and his two companions, Abubacarr and Omar, are buried.

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PRESIDENT BARROW: ‘NO COUNTRY CAN REACH ITS POTENTIAL WITHOUT EMPOWERING WOMEN AND GIRLS’

Over 730 young women graduate from SWEDD+ entrepreneurship training and receive D50,000 – D75,000 business grantsPresident Adama Barrow has said no country can realise its full potential without investing in women and girls, as The Gambia certified 730 beneficiaries under the Sahel Women’s Empowerment and Demographic Dividend Plus Project, SWEDD+. Speaking at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, the President said families thrive and communities grow stronger when women are supported. The ceremony recognised women and girls aged 15-24 who completed a three-month entrepreneurship training program under SWEDD+, implemented by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare.The five-year project targets out-of-school women and girls to improve livelihoods, skills, and economic independence.A total of D117 million has been earmarked for more than 2,000 young women under the project. For this first cohort of over 700 graduands, each will receive between D50,000 and D75,000 in business grants.The Ministry has set aside D32 million to be disbursed directly to the new graduates to start or expand their businesses. Cheques and certificates were presented to regional representatives at the event.Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare described the event as a “milestone” toward economic independence for beneficiaries. He commended President Barrow for advancing gender equality, noting that the skills gained will “open doors” for the graduates.Alpha Humma, Project Manager for the Women Enterprise Fund, said the training will enable graduands to contribute meaningfully to society. He confirmed the D32 million grant facility to support business start-ups.World Bank Representative Franklin Mutahakana said entrepreneurship training helps break barriers that limit women and girls. “This program gives young women more economic uplift,” he said, and reaffirmed the Bank’s support for The Gambia’s women’s empowerment agenda.Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Kaddy Balajo thanked the President, the Ministry of Gender, and the World Bank. “Women and girls are not mere beneficiaries of development, but partners,” she said. “The skills, knowledge, and grants we have received will transform our lives.”In his keynote, President Barrow congratulated the graduands and said investing in human capital through SWEDD+ is critical for sustainable growth.He urged beneficiaries to use the grants wisely and serve as inspiration to others. The President reiterated government’s commitment to inclusive development and equal opportunities for all Gambians.

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FIVE STATE-OWNED ENTERPRISES HAND OVER D137 MILLION IN DIVIDENDS TO PRESIDENT BARROW

Five state-owned enterprises, SOEs, handed over cheques totalling D137 million in dividend payments to President H.E. Adama Barrow at a ceremony held at State House on Tuesday. The unprecedented development marks a milestone in government-SOE relations, following reforms aimed at making the enterprises more profitable, better managed, and financially viable.For the first time in The Gambia’s history, SOEs lined up at State House not to request bailouts, but to return dividends worth over D130 million to the President.Board chairpersons, managing directors, and officials of the State-Owned Enterprises Commission gathered in the Cabinet Room to witness the ceremony. The five SOEs and their contributions were:1. Gambia Ports Authority: D70 million.2. Gambia National Petroleum Corporation: D50 million.3. Gambia Civil Aviation Authority: D5 million.4. Gambia Publishing and Printing Corporation: D5 million.5. The Gambia Radio and Television Services: D2 million.Chief of Staff to the President, Alieu Loum, who chaired the event, described it as unique. “The SOEs have fulfilled their obligations to government and to Gambians,” he said.The Chairman of the SOE Commission, Ousainou Ngum, said since the commission’s establishment three years ago, there has been remarkable improvement in the operations, management, and performance of state enterprises. He expressed hope that this transformation will continue, starting with this first dividend payment. Ngum also commended President Barrow for his leadership, oversight, and support to the commission and SOEs.In his keynote address, President Barrow described the ceremony as historic, noting it marks a turnaround for SOEs that, until 2024, were running a combined net loss of D2.4 billion. He attributed the performance to his government’s deliberate, sustained, and evidence-driven reform agenda focused on governance, accountability, and performance management.The President praised the SOE Commission for transforming public perception of state institutions and promoting efficiency. However, he urged all stakeholders to build on these achievements to address challenges affecting growth, liquidity, and profitability.President Barrow also reassured Gambians that the government will continue robust measures to end recurrent power cuts. He noted that NAWEC has improved its financial performance, enabling investment in the energy sector.He concluded by urging all SOEs to maintain the momentum, as the government remains committed to building efficient, functional, and robust state enterprises that deliver for the Gambian people.

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