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PRESIDENT BARROW MEETS SENEGAL'S DEFENCE CHIEF

President H.E. Adama Barrow welcomed the Chief of Defence Staff of the Senegalese Armed Forces, General Mbaye Cisse, at State House. General Cisse was accompanied by his Gambian counterpart, Lt. General Mamat Cham, National Security Adviser Abubacarr Jeng, and other senior military officials.General Cisse leads a delegation of high-ranking Senegalese military officials who are visiting The Gambia for a series of engagements with their Gambian counterparts and other officials. Speaking to reporters after his meeting with President Barrow, General Cisse stated that their discussions focused on enhancing the existing cooperation and collaboration between the two armed forces, in accordance with current bilateral defence agreements.General Cisse expressed gratitude to the President for his support of the Armed Forces, noting that since 2017, the two services have worked closely together to promote peace and stability in both countries.Lt. Gen. Mamat Cham commended the Senegalese Armed Forces, under General Cisse's leadership, for their unwavering support of the Gambian Armed Forces. He highlighted that over the past eight years, the two armies have established a robust and mutually beneficial professional relationship.General Cham assured that the Gambian Armed Forces will continue to strengthen its partnership with the Senegalese Armed Forces to effectively address security challenges in the sub-region and to secure the borders of both countries against threats from criminal and terrorist groups.General Cisse and his delegation will continue their engagements in The Gambia, which include meetings with the Defence Minister and visits to the Senegalese military contingent serving under the Ecomig peacekeeping force in the country.

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PRESIDENT BARROW WITNESSES DOUMBOUYA'S INAUGURATION IN GUINEA

The President-elect of Guinea, General Mamadi Doumbouya, was sworn in during a ceremony held in the capital, Conakry. The event was attended by eight African leaders, including His Excellency Adama Barrow, the President of The Gambia, as well as thousands of ordinary Guineans.Doumbouya was elected earlier this month in an election contested by eight other candidates, securing nearly 87% of the vote. This marks a new beginning for the West African nation of 15 million, which has been under military rule since 2021.Guineans from all walks of life filled the 50,000-capacity Sekou Toure Stadium for the swearing-in of President-elect Mamadi Doumbouya. Several African leaders, including Adama Barrow of The Gambia, Paul Kagame of Rwanda, Basirou Diomaye Jakhar Faye of Senegal, General Assimi Goita of Mali, and Muhammed Sheikh Ould Gazzouani of Mauritania, attended the historic ceremony.General Mamadi Doumbouya, a former military officer who won the presidential election, arrived at the stadium in a military vehicle, dressed in a flowing white kaftan. As he ascended to the VIP pavilion, his mother greeted him with a warm embrace, symbolising his transition from military to civilian life.The 36-year-old former army general observed as military vehicles, armoured personnel carriers, and rocket launchers paraded through the stadium, while military helicopters flew overhead to celebrate the occasion, which was marked by pomp and pageantry.Doumbouya then descended to the centre of the stadium, where a specially prepared stage was set up for the formal ceremony. The President of the Supreme Court, Fode Bangura, validated the election results, confirming Doumbouya’s commanding lead over his opponents.With his right hand raised and his left on the Holy Book, General Mamadi Doumbouya took the prescribed oaths. He swore to uphold the Constitution, perform the duties of President in the interest of the state, safeguard national unity, and defend the territorial integrity and independence of Guinea.He was subsequently awarded the nation's highest honour, the National Order of Merit with the Grand Croix, officially marking the start of his term as the second democratically elected President of Guinea and the seventh Head of State since independence from France in 1958.In his address to the nation, Doumbouya described this historic milestone as a new beginning for the country. He expressed gratitude to his compatriots for granting him the mandate to lead and promised to work towards improving the lives of Guineans, addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by the nation, and enhancing Guinea’s role in regional, continental, and global affairs.His inauguration concludes nearly five years of military rule, during which Guinea was suspended from ECOWAS and the African Union. The presence of sub-regional leaders may signal that Guinea, under General Mamadi Doumbouya, will regain its standing in both organisations and restore democracy in the country.After the swearing-in ceremony, President Adama Barrow returned to Banjul. He was seen off at the Sekou Touré International Airport by Ambassador Amie Fabureh and Foreign Affairs Minister Dr Morissanda Kouyaté.

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BARROW JOINS AFRICAN LEADERS FOR GUINEA'S TRANSITION TO CIVILIAN RULE 

President Adama Barrow has arrived in Conakry, the capital of Guinea, to attend the inauguration of President-elect General Mamadi Doumbouya. Doumbouya won a landslide victory in the recent presidential election, which followed more than four years of military rule. President Barrow is joining eight other African leaders for this ceremony, marking the end of the transitional period.Upon arrival at Sekou Toure International Airport, President Barrow was welcomed by Guinean Minister of Foreign Affairs Morissanda Kouyaté, Gambia's Ambassador to Guinea-Bissau (also accredited to Guinea) Amie Fabureh, and the Consul General in Conakry, Muhammed Lamin Ceesay.Outside the presidential lounge at the airport, members of the Gambian community in Conakry greeted the President, waving the Gambian flag. The President will attend the inauguration ceremony of General Mamadi Doumbouya, the former military ruler, who secured nearly 87% of the vote in the presidential election.Eight other African heads of state have been invited to the official ceremony, which will take place at the National Stadium in Conakry, symbolising the end of the transitional period following the military coup in 2021.

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PRESIDENT BARROW INSPECTS KEY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS 

The President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, recently conducted a familiarisation tour of infrastructural projects within the Kanifing Municipality and the West Coast Region. The tour included visits to various sites, such as Phase 3 of the OIC road projects, the Brufut Banyaka road project, and the Gunjur Jambanjelly road project, culminating in a visit to the Banjul Ports Project.The President began his tour with a brief stop at the Bertil Harding Highway. Phase 3 of this project is contracted to Arezki, which has completed the subgrade and subbase works, while base works and the relocation of services are currently ongoing.Accompanied by the Minister of Works, Ebrima Sillah, and officials from the National Roads Authority, the President was guided through the area around Palma Rima Junction. He received updates from project contractors regarding the status of the works, assessed their progress, and urged them to meet the stipulated deadlines.The entourage then travelled to the 7 km Sukuta Nemasu to Latrikunda road, which is part of the OIC road projects. This road is viewed as a critical corridor connecting the densely populated areas of the West Coast and Kanifing Municipality. Residents welcomed the President with enthusiasm, expressing their appreciation for this life-changing initiative.Following a lengthy trek with local residents, the President's motorcade continued through the Lot 5 EPC road, connecting Wellingara to the Abuko Abattoir. This 4 km road links the two settlements to the main road leading to Old Yundum.After a three-and-a-half-hour drive, the President made a brief stop at the Old Yundum overpass, where he was greeted by community leaders and supporters who gathered in large numbers to express gratitude for these unprecedented infrastructural developments.The President proceeded to inspect further road projects, stopping next at the EPC Lot 6 road project. The first section of this project stretches from Youna to Jambur and Brikama through Jalangbang, covering nearly 14 km. This road connects previously isolated communities that were especially cut off during the rainy season.After reaching the main Sukuta Jambanjelly highway, President Barrow made another brief stop to inspect the road connecting Jambur to Tujereng. The entourage then travelled to Kombo East to see ongoing works on the strategic EPC Lot 4 road project, which links Giboro and Sohm villages. This 13 km road has seen the contractor complete 1 km of the base course, following the successful removal of topsoil.The President was informed that works are progressing as planned, with sections outside the community currently at the subgrade and subbase level. From Kombo East, the entourage returned south to inspect the Janbanjelly-Gunjur road. Unlike other road projects, this one is significantly behind schedule, which left the President disappointed.However, the President expressed satisfaction with the completion of the Kunkujang Madiana to Brufut road, which spans 9 km. As he drove through, he stopped occasionally to greet the people who lined the roads to cheer for him. This was the first time the President had driven on these roads since laying the foundation stone, and he was visibly impressed with the transformation the projects had brought to Brufut and its surrounding areas.The tour concluded in Banjul with a visit to the port, where a new management team under a Turkish company has already initiated tangible improvements at the country’s only seaport. The President expressed his satisfaction with the work of Albayrak, the management company, which has made substantial investments to expand and modernise the port facilities.Overall, President Barrow deemed the tour very successful, as it provided him with firsthand information on these and other projects currently being undertaken by his government. He emphasised his commitment to infrastructural development, arguing that it is the foundation of national growth.Additionally, he pledged to transform The Gambia into a middle-income country by 2031, asserting that, after a decade in office, he has gained the experience necessary to implement impactful developments that could completely reshape the country.

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PRESIDENT ADAMA BARROW CONDUCTS SITE VISIT TO KANIFING MUNICIPALITY AND WEST COAST REGION

His Excellency, President Adama Barrow, is undertaking a tour of development projects in the Kanifing Municipality and West Coast Region, demonstrating the government's commitment to enhancing infrastructure and promoting national growth.

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  • GRTS
  • January 10, 2026 12:03
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7 DEAD IN FARAFENNI HIGHWAY CRASH

The Gambia Police Force confirms a devastating accident on the Farafenni-Jarra Soma Highway, involving a van and a bus, has claimed seven lives. Authorities are on the scene, investigating and managing traffic.

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  • GRTS
  • January 7, 2026 11:55
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President Barrow Welcomes New ECOMIG Force Commander, Pledges Support for Peace and Stability

The President of The Gambia, His Excellency Adama Barrow, has welcomed the new ECOMIG Force Commander, Aliou Tine, and bid farewell to outgoing Commander Col. Ndiagne Diouf at a ceremony held at the State House in Banjul.President Barrow expressed his gratitude to ECOWAS and the Government of Senegal for their service and assured Commander Tine of the Government's utmost support in maintaining the country's reputation for peaceful security. Commander Aliou Tine pledged to work closely with local authorities to address potential threats to national stability, saying, "I am committed to taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of The Gambia and its people."ECOWAS Head of Bureau, H.E. Miata Lily French, reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to supporting peace and stability in The Gambia, emphasising the need for strategic security measures to keep the region stable.President Barrow noted that the ECOWAS region faces challenges, stressing that safeguarding the region and its democratic values is a shared duty. He called on all stakeholders to collaborate in protecting stability and democracy, reiterating his commitment to a transparent, free, and fair election.The High Commissioner of Senegal, H.E. Mariama Sy, reaffirmed Senegal's commitment to supporting The Gambia, emphasising the country's dedication to strengthening ongoing cooperation and partnership.Outgoing ECOMIG Commander Col. Diouf expressed gratitude to Gambian authorities for their support during his tenure, appreciating the collaborative spirit and smooth working environment.

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TRAGIC BOAT CAPSIZE OFF GAMBIA COAST: 102 RESCUED, 7 BODIES RECOVERED

A devastating boat accident off the coast of Jinack Village in the North Bank Region has left the nation in mourning, with seven bodies recovered and dozens still missing after a vessel carrying irregular migrants capsized on New Year's Eve.In a sombre address, His Excellency President Adama Barrow expressed deep concern and condolences to the bereaved families, while reassuring the nation that search and rescue operations are ongoing. The National Emergency Response Plan has been activated, and adequate resources have been deployed to assist survivors."The nation grieves with you, and we hold you dearly in our hearts at this painful moment," his statement read, extending gratitude to the Gambia Navy, emergency response agencies, security services, health workers, and community volunteers who risked their lives to save others.The incident has sparked renewed calls for efforts to prevent irregular migration, with the Government pledging to strengthen initiatives to create safer opportunities for young people at home."We remain strongly determined to create safer and more dignified opportunities for our young people through development initiatives, jobs, and other livelihood options at home," he added.The Government has launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident, promising to bring those responsible to justice.As the nation mourns, the search for missing persons continues, with updates on identities and nationalities to be provided as information becomes available.

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  • GRTS
  • January 2, 2026 01:24
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PRESIDENT BARROW DECLARES CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR HOLIDAYS FOR GAMBIA

The Office of the President hereby informs the public that His Excellency President Adama Barrow has declared Thursday, 25th December and Friday, 26th December 2025, respectively, as Christmas and Boxing Day, as public holidays throughout The Gambia. Additionally, Thursday 1st January 2026, has also been declared a public holiday as part of the New Year celebrations.On behalf of the President and the First Family, the Office of the President wishes everyone a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

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BARROW LAYS FOUNDATION FOR WEST COAST ROADS, PLEDGES CONTINUED DEVELOPMENT

The President Adama Barrow has laid the foundation stone for the construction of 42km of roads in the West Coast Region, as part of his government's infrastructural revolution aimed at linking communities and unlocking economic potential.The roads, which include the 6km Farato Telecentre-Bafuloto Road, 10km Jambur Brikama Jalambang Road, 10km Brikama Kassa kunda Nyofelleh road, and 12km Kachumeh Gunjur Kunkujang to Sanyang road, are expected to improve connectivity and boost economic growth in the region.Speaking at a meeting in Kassa Kunda, President Barrow reaffirmed his government's commitment to constructing strategic roads across the country, saying it was a key priority for his administration.Residents of Farato and Kassa Kunda expressed gratitude to the President for the development, saying it marked a milestone for their communities.Alkalo Musa Sabally of Kassa Kunda praised President Barrow for his vision and foresight in empowering local communities, describing him as a great leader and champion of development.Chief Mondo Jatta and National Assembly Member for Kombo East, Hon Abdou Sowe, also commended the President's leadership and commitment to national development, urging the people of Kombo to rally behind him and vote for him in the next election.Works Minister Ebrima Sillah described President Barrow as a development-oriented leader, predicting that he would win the upcoming presidential election.In his statement, President Barrow said the laying of the foundation stone for the roads was an important milestone, underscoring his government's commitment to infrastructural development and empowering rural communities.He renewed his pledge to prioritise infrastructural development and social services, saying the next five years would witness renewed investments in these areas.The President also instructed authorities to begin upgrading the local school in Kassa Kunda to the Upper Basic level, in response to a request from the Alkalo and elders.

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  • GRTS
  • December 23, 2025 12:52
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PRESIDENT BARROW VOWS TO REBUILD ALBERT MARKET, PROMISES SAFETY MEASURES

In a show of solidarity with the affected traders, President Adama Barrow visited the Albert Market in Banjul following a devastating fire that gutted the market. The President met with traders and local stakeholders, expressing empathy for their losses and vowing to support the recovery efforts.During his visit, President Barrow announced that the government would provide financial assistance for reconstruction and implement safety measures to prevent future tragedies. He assured the traders that their livelihoods would be restored, and the market would be rebuilt swiftly and efficiently.The President's visit highlights the administration's commitment to enhancing market safety and promoting sustainable business practices in the heart of Banjul.

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  • GRTS
  • December 22, 2025 10:52
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PRESIDENT BARROW ALLOCATES LAND FOR GPU HEADQUARTERS, BOOSTING PRESS FREEDOM

His Excellency President Adama Barrow made a momentous announcement during the prestigious annual Presidential Media Dinner held at the State House. In his address, he revealed that his administration has officially allocated land for the establishment of a permanent headquarters for the Gambia Press Union (GPU). This landmark decision is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time a government has taken such a step since the nation gained independence, signifying a substantial commitment to fostering a robust and independent media landscape.This initiative not only represents a significant leap forward for media development in The Gambia but also underscores the administration's dedication to promoting press freedom, a fundamental pillar of democracy. By providing a physical space for the GPU, the government aims to enhance the operational capabilities of journalists and media professionals, thereby empowering them to better serve the public interest.The annual Presidential Media Dinner serves as a vital platform for reinforcing the relationship between the government and the media fraternity. It allows for candid discussions and exchanges of ideas, illustrating the President's unwavering commitment to uphold the values of a strong and independent media. This gesture strengthens the foundation for collaborative efforts that can lead to more informed and engaged citizens who are better equipped to participate in democratic processes.

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  • GRTS
  • December 21, 2025 02:06

Latest Updates

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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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