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PRESIDENT BARROW TAKES TOP HONOUR AT MEDAYS 17TH EDITION  

The Gambian leader, President Adama Barrow, globally acclaimed as a man of peace and tolerance has been awarded the Grand Prix MEDays 2025 at the 17th Mediterranean Conference on global cooperation and dialogue. The citations on President Barrow recognised and acknowledged his commitment to cooperation and dialogue in strengthening peace and stability both at home and globally.  President Barrow is the 3rd Head of State for the Smiling Coast of Africa, The Gambia, a magnificent West African country within the ECOWAS bloc.   As he affirms, size is not important; it is what we do to promote dialogue, peace, and democracy that counts for us to advance as developing states. In his statement, President Barrow highlighted the importance of collaboration and collective action in achieving Africa's development goals including opportunities for economic growth. The Gambian leader praised Morocco’s leadership in South-South cooperation. He reiterated The Gambia’s support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Moroccan Sahara, citing The Gambia as the first country to open a Consulate General in Dakhla in 2020. This gesture underscores the strong bilateral ties between The Gambia and Morocco, built on shared values and cooperation. The event offers a platform for dialogue, innovation, and strategic partnerships, rooted in Morocco's pivotal role as a hub for international cooperation. Africa has long been struggling within, but the leadership of President Adama Barrow has demonstrated that with focus and innovation, our countries can advance rapidly. While leading unprecedented infrastructure development, democracy and economic prosperity at home, President Barrow also pursues regional and global peace, dialogue and cooperation. The President's visionary and transformative leadership within decade earned him the coveted 2024 African Peace Promoter Prize. The 17th edition of the MEDays Forum is underway in Tangier, Morocco, bringing together Heads of State and Government, business experts, and other decision makers to dialogue and formulate practical solutions to Africa’s challenges. Held under the theme ‘Fractures and Polarisation: Reinventing the Global Equation,’ the event is focused on exploring opportunities for growth and cooperation.President Barrow was accompanied by Lady Sarjo Mballow-Barrow, Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Seringe Modou Njie and Minister & Chief of Staff, Office of the President Hon. Mod K. Ceesay.

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PRESIDENT BARROW HOLDS BILATERAL MEETING WITH LIBERIAN LEADER IN MOROCCO

The President of The Gambia, His Excellency Adama Barrow and his Liberian counterpart, President Joseph Boakai, held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 17th Edition of MEDays Forum in Tangier, the Kingdom of Morocco. President Barrow congratulated President Boakai on his election at the UN Security Council, thus representing the ECOWAS bloc. The President further emphasised the importance of cooperation in the ECOWAS bloc The two leaders discussed matters of security in the region, the importance of intelligence sharing and other areas of bilateral interests to boost tourism, trade and economic growth.The relationship between The Gambia and Liberia has further strengthened since 2017, impacting peace and cooperation in the ECOWAS Region.

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AU ELECTION OBSERVERS SPEAK ON POST-ELECTION SITUATION IN GUINEA-BISSAU 

The Heads of the African Union Election Observation Mission, His Excellency Issifu Baba Brafmah Kamara, head of the ECOWAS Election Observation Mission, H.E. Goodluck Jonathan, head of the West African Elders Forum and Former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and H.E. Filipe Jacinto Nyusi, head of observation Mission and Former President of the Republic of Mozambique have issued a joint statement onthe Post-Election Situation in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau. This came after reports of a coup by the country's armed forces. Below is the full statement. “We, the Heads of the African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM), the ECOWAS Election Observation Mission (EOM), and the West African Elders Forum note the orderly and peaceful conclusion of the voting process for the presidential and legislative elections held on 23 November 2025 in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau.We commend the people of Guinea-Bissau for their strong civic engagement, as well as the professionalism demonstrated by polling staff, security personnel, presidential candidates, and party agents throughout the voting process.Despite these encouraging developments, we express deep concern with the announcement of a coup d'etat by the armed forces, while the nation was waiting for the announcement of the results. It's regrettable that this announcement came at a time when the missions had just concluded meeting with the two leading presidential candidates, who assured us of their willingness to accept the will of the people.We deplore this blatant attempt to disrupt the democratic process and the gains that have been achieved thus far. We request that the African Union and ECOWAS take the necessary steps to restore constitutional order.We express concern about the arrests of top officials, including those who are in charge of the electoral process. In this regard, we urge the armed forces to immediately release the detained officials to allow the country's electoral process to proceed to its conclusion.We call on the people of Guinea-Bissau to remain calm, and we reaffirm our commitment to supporting the Country on its democratic path. In this respect, we underscore the importance of preserving peace, stability, and the well-being of the Bissau-Guinean people during this sensitive period.”

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  • ECOWAS
  • November 26, 2025 09:04
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PRESIDENT BARROW DISCUSSES BRIKAMA MARKET AND OUTLINES ACHIEVEMENTS IN WEST COAST REGION

His Excellency President Adama Barrow has convened a meeting in Brikama on Sunday, listening to the concerns of the community and its surrounding villages in fulfilment of his constitutionally mandated annual Meet the People Tour. After listening to the speakers, President Barrow began his address by focusing on the market and roads identified by the speakers as ‘undesirable to ply.’ He argued that those are issues that should have been handled by Yankuba Darboe, the Chairman of Brikama Area Council, whom he accused of engaging more in political talk than working. The President said he wanted to build the biggest market in Brikama but his attempt was blocked by the Chairman of the Council, saying the people of Brikama would ‘never get that project if Yankuba Darboe continues to occupy the seat.’ He, however, assured the people of Brikama of his commitment to bring development projects to the area.The President then began recounting what he has done in the West Coast Region since coming to power. He said an estimated 5 billion dalasi was spent on higher education and skill acquisition centres. He said his administration has so far spent 500 million dalasi on basic education, in excess of  7 billion dalasi on roads, over 3 billion on health, more than  7 billion dalasi on electricity and more than 400 million dalasi on agriculture.He also said the government is implementing a 962 million water project in Sifoe, which would benefit  200 thousand people in 16 thousand households. President Barrow also disclosed that his administration has spent 1.2 billion dalasi on the Farato Hospital, and provided ambulances worth 35 million dalasi to the West Coast Region.President Barrow then presented a cheque for 3.2 million dalasi to 23 women's groups in the West Coast Region. The groups have a combined membership of over  2,000.When it was the turn of speakers to take to the podium, they expressed gratitude to the President for the work he has done in the region and called for more support. The undesirable condition of roads featured prominently in various speeches. Chief Mundo Jatta of Kombo North, singled out roads in  Kabafita, Nyambai, Jamisa, Jidda and many more that he said need to be constructed urgently. ‘When it rains, the said roads are difficult to ply.’Other speakers, mostly women, pleaded for the government's intervention to improve conditions at Brikama Market. They say the market is the source of livelihood for many women, but its condition, especially during the rainy season, leaves a lot to be desired.According to some speakers, ‘the drainage system there does not allow water to flow, thus creating a breeding ground for mosquitoes, in addition to the pungent smell.’The Brikama Market is the biggest on the West Coast and one of the biggest in the Gambia. Thousands of women there, depend on their stalls for survival. National Assembly Member for Kombo East, Honourable Abdou Sowe, said he ‘feels ashamed whenever he goes to the market, due to its bad state.’He urged the central government to intervene, saying its condition would continue to ‘deteriorate if it were left in the hands of the area council.’Pleas for electricity were also made - specifically for Dasilameh, Kabakel, Marakisa and other satellite settlements.Ebrima Sillah, the Minister for Transport, Works and Infrastructure, informed the people of Brikama that the Rumba road, Jalambang-Sara Ngai, Jidda, Jamisa and the road stretching from Jah Oil to Jambar Sanneh would all be ‘constructed soon.’Dr Demba Sabally, the Minister for Agriculture, said cold storage facilities are being constructed in Brikama, and that the gardens in Dasilameh and Jiboro are also being renovated. Sillah also disclosed that a slaughterhouse is being built in Brikama.Hamat Bah, Lands and Regional Government Minister, told the gathering that the government is conscious of the concerns of the youth of Brikama, and would provide them with good football fields. He, however, warned the people of Komba South against selling government lands, adding, It's cause for concern.’ Bah said ‘The government needs those lands for future development projects.’The greater percentage of civil cases at the courts, according to the Lands Minister, are about conflicts over land. He then went on to warn Alkalolu and local authorities to follow the laws governing land administration.  The Brikama meeting is the third to be convened in the West Coast Region, and was attended by a large number of people. 

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Saudi Arabia and The Gambia Sign Historic Sports Cooperation Agreement in Riyadh

In a significant step towards strengthening international sports cooperation, the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SOPC) and the Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC) signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Wednesday, marking the occasion at the Islamic Solidarity Games 2025 in Riyadh.The agreement, signed by HH Prince Fahad Bin Jalawi Al Saud on behalf of HRH Prince Abdulaziz Bin Turki Al-Faisal Al Saud, President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, and Mr Bai Dodou Jallow, President of the Gambia National Olympic Committee, establishes a comprehensive framework aimed at enhancing bilateral collaboration across various aspects of the Olympic Movement and sports development.The MoU reflects the shared ambition of both nations to expand technical, educational, and administrative cooperation, while fostering stronger people-to-people links through sport.Under the terms of the agreement, the two committees will collaborate closely at continental and international sports forums, exchange sports programmes between federations, and work together on training sports personnel through technical exchanges, conferences, and knowledge-sharing initiatives.The partnership also promotes cooperation in sports medicine, anti-doping efforts, gender equity, Olympic education, and sustainability. Both sides will encourage exchanges among coaches, sports officials, athletes’ committees, and national teams, while facilitating direct contact between sports clubs in each country.The agreement emphasises the confidentiality of shared information and specifies that the MoU is a non-binding framework with no immediate financial commitments. Financial arrangements for specific exchange programmes will be mutually agreed upon on a case-by-case basis.To ensure effective implementation, representatives from the SOPC and GNOC will hold regular meetings to evaluate and progress joint programmes. The MoU will remain valid for four years and will automatically renew for additional four-year terms unless either party terminates it with six months’ notice in writing.Both parties stressed the importance of coordinated public communication, with prior written approval needed before any information related to the MoU or its activities is published.The signing marks a new chapter in Saudi–Gambian sports relations, positioning both countries to benefit from shared expertise, improved athletic development, and enhanced international cooperation within the global Olympic Movement.

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  • GNOC
  • November 25, 2025 04:29
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Health Ministry and Africa CDC Discuss Means To Eliminate Hepatitis

The Gambia's Ministry of Health, through the National Hepatitis Control Programme, with support from the Africa CDC, has initiated a five-day national workshop aimed at strengthening surveillance and monitoring systems as the country works towards eliminating hepatitis by 2030.The first two days will focus on identifying key hepatitis indicators to aid national reporting. The remaining three days will be dedicated to equipping participating health workers with improved skills for accurate data collection and monitoring.Sheriff Badjie, the National Hepatitis Control Programme manager, emphasised the need for a 'strong monitoring and evaluation system' to achieve the 2030 hepatitis elimination target. He stated that 'timely and reliable data is essential for informed decision-making.'The set target for eliminating hepatitis remains a central focus for officials. Momodou T. Nyassi, the Director of Health Services, affirmed that the Ministry is committed to strengthening surveillance, monitoring, and evaluation systems to ensure that 'hepatitis is eliminated in The Gambia by 2030.'Dr Kokou Alinon, Regional Director of Africa CDC for the West Africa Coordinating Centre, described the workshop as a 'strategic investment in public health, recognising efforts to improve data quality, strengthen disease control, and promote hepatitis elimination.'This workshop emphasises surveillance, data collection, and monitoring—key aspects of the drive to make hepatitis a thing of the past—by providing information on prevalence rates and other demographic evidence that could support decision-making. 

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ECOWAS ELECTION OBSERVERS REPORT PEACEFUL, ORDERLY AND TRANSPARENT VOTING IN BISSAU

ECOWAS Election Observation Mission (EOM), led by Ambassador Issufu Baba Braimah Kamara, reported a calm, orderly and transparent voting process in Bissau, following a structured deployment to priority polling centres during the opening of the 2025 General Elections. Early observations confirmed the timely commencement of operations, the presence of accredited party agents, the availability of essential voting materials and a level of civic discipline that reflected strong public confidence in the process.Voters went to the polls on Sunday, 23 November, for the presidential and legislative elections. 12 candidates are contesting the elections including the incumbent, Umaro Sissoco Embalo. (Pictures, ECOWAS) Strengthened by real-time national coverage from long- and short-term observers, the Mission noted that the conduct of polling officials, security personnel and voters remained consistent with the standards expected for credible elections in the ECOWAS region. These initial findings support the Organisation’s longstanding commitment to safeguarding democratic processes, promoting stability, and ensuring that the electoral outcome faithfully reflects the will of the people of Guinea-Bissau

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  • ECOWAS
  • November 24, 2025 05:38
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AUB Director General Meets GRTS and Top Government Officials Ahead of AUB Assembly In Banjul

A team led by the Director General of the African Union of Broadcasting (AUB), Mr Gregoire Ndjaka, is currently in the Gambia as a guest of the Gambia Radio and Television Service (GRTS). The team, which also includes Rokehya Ndiaye, Head of Member Relations, is in the country to discuss preparatory works with government officials and GRTS ahead of the 2026 African Union of Broadcasting General Assembly meeting in Banjul. During the visit, the team held high-level consultative meetings with the Minister of Information, Media, and Broadcasting Services, while also meeting the Director General of GRTS Mr. Abdoulie Sey and the senior management team of the state broadcaster. The delegation’s latest engagements include site visits to the Gambia’s hospitality industry, including the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo, before a formal meeting with members of the GRTS Board of Directors, represented by the Board Vice Chair, Mr Kemo Conteh. The Gambia initially hosted the organisation's General Assembly in 1998 when the body used to be called the Union of African National Television and Radio Organisations (URTNA).This will be the first time the Gambia will host the General Assembly after its renaming to AUB in the 2006 URTNA General Assembly held in Nigeria. This is a remarkable move as GRTS moves to reposition itself as a critical player on the continental broadcasting landscape.

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  • GRTS
  • November 18, 2025 11:30
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“Adaptation Is No Longer Optional”: Gambia Calls for Fair Climate Finance at COP30

The Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, Rohey John Manjang, has reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to working with all Parties “in the spirit of equity, cooperation, accountability and hope for posterity” in the global climate discourse.“As we convene at this critical moment for global climate action, The Gambia stands ready to work with all Parties in the spirit of equity, cooperation, accountability, and hope for posterity.” “Let us be reminded that The Gambia, though among the nations least responsible for global greenhouse gas emissions, remains one of the most vulnerable to the devastating impacts of climate change. Our economy depends heavily on climate-sensitive sectors, such as agriculture and fisheries, and our coastal zone is under increasing threat from sea-level rise and storm surges,” she said. Minister Manjang made these remarks during the High-Level Segment of COP30/CMP20/CMA7, where leaders present national statements and outline their countries’ climate priorities.The Gambia’s Emission Reduction TargetsThe minister highlighted the country’s ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions despite its limited resources.“The Gambia’s second Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC2) sets a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 49.7 per cent below business-as-usual levels by 2030, while working toward a vision of net-zero emissions by 2050, costed at 4 billion USD,” she stated.She added that climate considerations have been integrated into the national development plan, alongside strengthened partnerships and the rollout of nature-based solutions and broader resilience-building initiatives. “The country has also developed a Climate Prosperity Investment and Financing Strategy to mobilise resources for transformative climate-resilient growth.”The minister noted that The Gambia is working toward establishing a National Climate Change Act to provide a stronger legal framework for climate action.A Call for Adaptation Finance and Global SupportMinister Manjang emphasised that The Gambia’s climate ambitions depend on access to finance, technology, and capacity support.“Adaptation is no longer optional. It is an urgent necessity for safeguarding lives, livelihoods and ecosystems, especially in the world’s most climate-vulnerable countries,” she said. She urged parties to adopt practical adaptation indicators and operationalise them to track progress toward global climate resilience.This she said will be:• A significant increase in adaptation finance for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), in line with Article 9.4 of the Paris Agreement.• Substantial and timely contributions to the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD), commensurate with the scale of losses already experienced.“Without accessible, reliable and predictable climate finance, building resilience will remain a mere aspiration,” she said.Climate Justice and Just TransitionMinister Manjang stressed that LDCs and SIDS must be at the heart of all climate action. She welcomed the recent International Court of Justice advisory opinion affirming that restitution, including ecosystem restoration, is a legal obligation, reinforcing the justice dimension of loss and damage.On Just Transition, she emphasised equity and the special circumstances of LDCs and SIDS, calling for the elevation of the Just Transition Work Programme as a central pillar of the UNFCCC process.“We cannot fail our women, our children, and our youths, who are the most affected and the least responsible for the climate crisis,” she said.Concluding her statement, Minister Manjang reiterated The Gambia’s readiness to work constructively with all parties to deliver a “balanced and implementable” outcome from Belém.“Let us leave Belém with renewed resolve, united in strengthening hope and partnerships, with a clear path toward climate action and resilience for all,” she said.

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The Gambia's Environment Minister Designated Co-Chair of the Global Goal on Adaptation

The Gambia has secured a notable position on the global climate stage. The Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, Hon. Rohey John Manjang, has been assigned by the COP President to serve as Co-Chair of the Global Goal for Adaptation, known as the GGA. With this major recognition of The Gambia’s leadership on climate action, Hon. Rohey John Manjang will now serve alongside Germany’s Environment Minister as Co-Chair of the Global Goal for Adaptation, an important pillar of the international climate negotiations.The appointment places Minister Manjang at the centre of global efforts to strengthen resilience and help countries adapt to the worsening impacts of climate change.Her role requires complete neutrality, bringing together all negotiating groups, listening to their concerns, and guiding discussions toward a balanced agreement acceptable to all parties.This co-chairmanship is seen as both an honour and a responsibility, as countries look to chart a clear path for adaptation ahead of future climate milestones.With this appointment, The Gambia’s voice takes on an even stronger role in shaping global climate policy, highlighting the country’s commitment to a fair and inclusive climate agenda.

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Gambia's Rohey John Manjang Advocates for Equitable Food Systems and Climate Action at COP30

Rohey John Manjang, The Gambia's Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, joined world leaders and ministers at a High-Level Ministerial Event on National Approaches to Protein Diversification and International Collaboration, in her first engagement at COP30 in Belém, BrazilIn her remarks, Minister Manjang highlighted the deep connection between climate change, food security, and public health, emphasising that for The Gambia, protein diversification is not a luxury but a national necessity.“Erratic rainfall patterns and warming seas now directly affect our traditional protein sources from groundnuts to fisheries. For us, protein diversification is not a lifestyle choice. It is a strategic imperative for national survival, public health, and economic development,” she said.She further noted that “food and climate insecurity are two sides of the same coin,” stressing that the climate and food crises are not distant threats but present realities that demand urgent, coordinated, and inclusive responses.Sharing The Gambia’s national approach to protein diversification, Minister Manjang explained that the strategy builds on local strengths and realities rather than external blueprints. It focuses on empowering local food systems such as sourcing school meals from local farmers producing climate-resilient, protein-rich crops while promoting sustainable aquaculture, poultry farming, and climate-resilient fisheries. Minister Manjang stated that, the approach also ensures a just transition for smallholder farmers, pastoralists, and fishers, with strong attention to gender equality and youth inclusion.She also underscored the importance of international collaboration, calling for partnerships that are inclusive, balanced, and responsive to national priorities.“International collaboration is essential, but it must be equitable and pragmatic. We call for partnerships that invest in our priorities and amplify our solutions,” she said.

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

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

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Latest Updates

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PRESIDENT BARROW DISCUSSES GAMBIA-US TIES, SAHEL SECURITY WITH ENVOYS IN BANJUL

His Excellency President Adama Barrow received two important visitors at the State House in Banjul on Friday. He first met with Eugene Young, the Charge d'Affaires of the United States Embassy in The Gambia, followed by a meeting with H.E. Dr Mamadou Tangara, the African Union Special Representative for Mali and the Sahel.During the meeting with the U.S. Charge d'Affaires, they discussed various bilateral issues between the United States and The Gambia. H.E Adama Barrow President of the Republic of The Gambia Eugene Young, the Charge d'Affaires of the United States Embassy in The Gambia. (PC: State House)In his audience with Dr Tangara, the conversation focused on the ongoing dialogue and consultation between ECOWAS and the Association of Sahel States.After meeting with President Barrow, Charge d'Affaires Young spoke to GRTS, sharing that the discussions covered several topics relevant to President Trump's global priorities, the situation of Gambians living illegally in the United States, and U.S. investments in The Gambia. The dialogue also addressed concerns regarding peace and security, particularly conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and Libya.Separately, Dr Mamadou Tangara, the African Union Special Representative for the Sahel, led a delegation to the State House. Dr Tangara, second from left with his development members. (PC: State House)Speaking to GRTS, Dr Tangara said that their meeting is part of an ongoing dialogue and consultation between ECOWAS and the Association of Sahel States aimed at addressing regional challenges. He expressed hope that the discussions would strengthen the foundations laid by previous engagements, foster trust and confidence, and enable the sub-region to effectively tackle its challenges and promote peace and stability.

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CALL FOR OB VAN BIDDING

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  • GRTS
  • April 21, 2026 11:04
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VP Jallow Meets Gambians in New York

His Excellency Mohammed BS Jallow, Vice President of the Republic of The Gambia, recently met with members of the Gambian Community in Bronx, New York.The visit underscores the Government of The Gambia's continued commitment to engaging with Gambians living abroad, listening to their concerns, and strengthening the bond between the homeland and the diaspora.

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  • OVP
  • April 18, 2026 01:21
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MANJAGO HEADS MEET PRESIDENT BARROW OVER KOMBO SOUTH LAND ENCROACHMENTS, URGE DIALOGUE AND LEGAL PROTECTION

The President His Excellency Adama Barrow on Wednesday met with the Manjago “Alkalolu” from the Kombo South District of the West Coast Region. The village heads represented the Manjago communities, who have expressed concerns about illegal encroachments on their ancestral land by neighbouring groups, leading to ongoing disputes and threats of violence.After the meeting, David Cardoman Gomez, the Alkalo of Faalah village shared that the Manjago communities are worried about these developments but are committed to addressing the issue through dialogue rather than confrontation, as they are law-abiding citizens. Gomez emphasised that the Manjago people are third-generation Gambians, having inherited their land from their great-grandfathers who arrived in the country long before British colonial rule. He expressed hope that the President and his government would work to resolve the land disputes affecting the Manjago community and return the land to its rightful owners, as outlined in the constitution and land policy.Yusupha Gomez, another community leader, conveyed sincere gratitude to President Barrow for hearing their concerns. He noted that through dialogue with all parties involved, an amicable solution could be reached regarding the land disputes. However, he advised the Manjago community to legally document their land to protect it from encroachments by speculators and neighbouring communities.Mr Gomez described President Barrow as tolerant, accommodating, and open to dialogue, expressing hope that the meeting would lead to a positive outcome, as they had presented a comprehensive report to him.

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GAMBIA’S NEW ENVOY TO SERBIA PRESENTS CREDENTIALS, EYES COOPERATION IN AGRICULTURE, EDUCATION, ICT

The Gambia’s Ambassador to Belgium and the European Union, H.E. Pa Musa Jobarteh, recently presented his Letters of Credence to Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, formally accrediting him as The Gambia’s Ambassador to the Republic of Serbia.The ceremony was held at the Presidential Palace in Belgrade.Ambassador Jobarteh conveyed fraternal greetings from President Adama Barrow to the Serbian President, Government, and people. He underscored Banjul’s commitment to deepen bilateral ties with Belgrade.During a tête-à-tête with President Vucic, the two discussed key areas for cooperation where both nations could benefit, including higher education, agriculture, engineering, tourism, and ICT.Ambassador Jobarteh highlighted The Gambia’s interest in agricultural mechanisation and scholarships for Gambians to study at Serbian universities, saying both would “greatly contribute to the socioeconomic development of the country.” The two sides also agreed to explore economic cooperation between the Chambers of Commerce of The Gambia and Serbia.President Vucic welcomed Ambassador Jobarteh to Serbia and congratulated him on his appointment. He noted The Gambia’s developing political and economic progress and reaffirmed Serbia’s commitment to support Banjul in the priority areas raised by the ambassador.Ambassador Jobarteh is The Gambia’s Ambassador to Belgium and the European Union, with concurrent accreditation to Serbia.

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GAMBIANS IN BRAZZAVILLE PACK AIRPORT FOR PRESIDENT BARROW, SEEK HELP ON IMMIGRATION STATUS 

On the sidelines of his visit to the Republic of the Congo, President Adama Barrow met with representatives of the Gambian Association in Brazzaville. The meeting created space for discussions on national issues and the challenges facing the community, where thousands of Gambians have lived for decades.Community head and Consular Saikou Jawara thanked President Barrow for the visit, saying it reinforces the bonds of friendship and brotherhood between Congo and The Gambia. He described Gambians in Brazzaville as peaceful, united, and law-abiding, a reputation he said has earned them respect from local authorities. Jawara noted that residents spent hours at the airport to welcome the President. He appealed for government support to facilitate passports and ID cards to help members regularise their immigration status and access jobs.Demba Cham, an executive member of the association, echoed the request. He praised Barrow for development initiatives back home, saying the community has been following The Gambia’s infrastructure and electricity expansion projects closely. Cham called the projects evidence of the government’s commitment to improving lives and urged the President to help Gambians in Congo obtain national documents.Foreign Affairs Minister Serign Modou Njie commended the community for the welcome given to the President and his delegation. He said Gambians in Congo had shown patriotism and love for the country’s leadership and reassured them that the government would look into their concerns.President Barrow expressed gratitude to the community for turning out in large numbers at the airport. He advised them to remain united, hardworking, and respectful of the host country’s laws. The President said The Gambia has undergone unprecedented transformation, crediting democracy for restoring trust and opening new opportunities with development partners.“As the President, I love The Gambia more than anyone else because The Gambia is my project, and I am happy when Gambians are happy,” Barrow told the gathering. He cited roads built to last a century as part of his legacy. He urged the community to organise and compile a list of eligible citizens so the government can dispatch teams to issue national documents, in line with policy.In the December election, Barrow pledged to hold a “free, fair and peaceful election” and to “respect the outcome of the vote.” He added that The Gambia, under his leadership, has seen remarkable progress in infrastructure and electricity, with more developments planned in the coming years.Closing the meeting, the President declared himself an honorary member of the association and promised to forward his contributions as a gesture of support and goodwill to Gambians in Congo Brazzaville.

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