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OUATTARA SWORN IN FOR FOURTH TERM AS IVORY COAST PRESIDENT

President Alassane Ouattara has taken the oath of office for a fourth five-year term as President of Côte d'Ivoire, following a landslide victory in October's presidential election where he secured nearly 90% of the vote. The inauguration ceremony, held at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan, was attended by 11 African leaders, including President Adama Barrow of The Gambia, and delegations from 50 countries.With his left hand on the Constitution and his right hand raised, the 83-year-old President Ouattara vowed to uphold the constitution, maintain national unity, and protect the rights and liberties of citizens. He was decorated with the country's highest honour, the National Order, by Grand Chancellor Ally Coulibaly.The inauguration ceremony, held at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan, was attended by 11 African leaders, including President Adama Barrow of The Gambia.In his inaugural address, President Ouattara expressed gratitude to the Ivorian people for electing him for another term and pledged to continue his program of national consolidation and development, prioritising women and youth. He emphasised his government's commitment to economic transformation, agricultural modernisation, and building a united and prosperous nation.The swearing-in ceremony is seen as a consolidation of democracy in Côte d'Ivoire, a country regarded as a beacon of peace and stability in West Africa. The presence of ECOWAS leaders at the ceremony underscores the sub-regional body's commitment to defending and strengthening democracy in the region.

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WORLD BANK EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LAUDS GAMBIA'S PROGRESS, ANNOUNCES KEY INVESTMENTS

The Vice President of The Gambia, His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow, has received the Executive Director of the World Bank Group, Dr. ZarauDrbwe, for a crucial meeting to discuss the country's development progress and future collaborations. The meeting, attended by key officials from the Ministry of Finance and the World Bank, highlighted the strong partnership between The Gambia and the World Bank Group.The Gambia is set to host the next major African Caucus Meeting for the IMF/World Bank in 2026, following its assumption of the Chairmanship in late 2025. The meeting will focus on themes such as infrastructure, human capital, and green assets for sustainable growth, building on discussions from the 2025 Bangui meeting.Dr Zarau Kibwe, accompanied by the Hon. Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Seedy Keita, Permanent Secretary Mod A.K. Secka, the Country Director of the World Bank, Franklin Mutahakana, and Senior officials from both the Ministry of finance and the World Bank Group.The World Bank Country Director, Franklin Mutahakana, emphasised the importance of the 2026 Caucus meeting in advancing strategies for the continent's economic future. Dr. ZarauDrbwe expressed satisfaction with the progress of project implementation across The Gambia, citing the USET Complex in Brikama as a model for educational reform in Africa.The Gambia's Chairmanship of the African Caucus is expected to present a unified African voice on global financial reforms, advocate for increased funding, and foster sustainable development. The World Bank's top executives' visit reinforces the strong partnership between The Gambia and the World Bank Group, with discussions focusing on emerging opportunities and avenues for deeper collaboration.

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PRESIDENT BARROW ATTENDS INAUGURATION OF PRESIDENT ALASSANE OUATTARA IN ABIDJAN

His Excellency President Adama Barrow joined regional leaders in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire on Monday to witness the inauguration of President Alassane Ouattara for a fourth term.President Ouattara pledged to uphold the nation's constitution, emphasising democracy, stability, and peace. He outlined plans for modernisation, institutional development, and the empowerment of women and youth, highlighting skills acquisition and domestically driven economic growth.President Barrow's attendance reinforces The Gambia's commitment to regional cooperation and African economic integration.Regional leaders present included Presidents John Dramani Mahama (Ghana), Bassirou Diomaye Faye (Senegal), Julius Maada Bio (Sierra Leone), Brice Nguéma (Gabon), Mohamed Ould Ghazouani (Mauritania), and João Lourenço (Angola).

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GAMBIA POLICE ARREST SUSPECT IN BRUTAL MURDER OF 40-YEAR-OLD WOMAN IN BRIKAMA

The Gambia Police Force has arrested a 26-year-old suspect, Sulayman Saidykhan, in connection with the alleged murder of Fatou Sambou, a 40-year-old resident of Kembujeh Madina. The victim was found with injuries to her head and hand on her groundnut farm behind the Brikama Power Station on December 2.Thanks to the robust efforts of the police and timely support from stakeholder institutions, investigators were able to track and trace the victim's stolen mobile phone, ultimately leading to the suspect's arrest. Saidykhan, an ex-soldier with a previous criminal conviction, was found in possession of the deceased's mobile phone.The suspect has been cautioned, charged, and detained, while investigations continue to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The Gambia Police Force reassures the public that a thorough, impartial, and professional investigation will be conducted to ensure justice is served.The police acknowledge the support of all stakeholders whose cooperation contributed to the swift arrest of the suspect. The public can rest assured that the police are working diligently to bring perpetrators of such heinous crimes to justice.

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  • GPF
  • December 6, 2025 11:28
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PRESIDENT BARROW RECEIVES MILLIONS-WORTH OF DONATIONS TO BOOST ECONOMIC GROWTH

President Adama Barrow has received a significant donation from Qatar Charity, consisting of 130 cargo tricycles, 130 'tuk-tuk', and 100 diesel-powered milling machines. The donation, worth millions of dollars, is aimed at empowering vulnerable communities and promoting economic growth in The Gambia.The donated items will be deployed in partnership with the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), civil society organisations, and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare. The project aligns with the government's YIRIWA agenda, focusing on improving livelihoods and promoting economic growth.Qatar Charity has implemented projects in The Gambia worth USD 5 million since 2019, covering education, health, water, sanitation, and support for vulnerable families. The latest phase of the economic empowerment program focuses on rural employment and women's development.President Barrow expressed profound appreciation for the donation, describing it as a reflection of true international solidarity. He praised Qatar Charity for demonstrating a deep commitment to strengthening vulnerable communities and upholding human dignity.The Qatari Ambassador to The Gambia, H.E. Abdallah Jassim Al Kabi, also presented school bags with stationery items to school-going orphans during the ceremony, further highlighting the charity's commitment to supporting education and vulnerable populations.

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PRESIDENT BARROW URGES BAKAU TO ABANDON OPPOSITION, EMBRACE DEVELOPMENT

The President H.E. Adama Barrow held a meeting in Bakau,  as he wraps up his annual Meet the People Tour in the Kanifing Municipality. President Barrow called on Bakau to abandon its age-old loyalty to the opposition and embrace his government to accelerate national development, foster unity and enhance stability. The rally drew a massive turnout with crowds of young people and women receiving the President and entourage at the main intersection leading to the venue.After the usual welcome ceremonies,  the Alkalo of Bakau Doudou Bojang made a passionate appeal to the people to change course and embrace the government of President Adama Barrow. “Decades in the opposition have brought us nothing. We should draw inspiration from others and turn a new page,” the Alkalo said. He cited the various development projects across the country, undertaken by the President and appealed to the government to replicate them in Bakau.This was re-echoed by several other speakers, including Mariama Sanneh, the lady councillor, Mabinta Badji, the constituency mobiliser,  Fafa Sanyang and Fatou Darboe. They all called for a shift in politics to dismantle Bakau's reputation as an “opposition stronghold” by embracing the NPP.  Such political realignment,  the speakers added will “usher in a new era of development for this coastal settlement.” They also deplored the poor state of infrastructure in the town, with most neighbourhoods prone to flooding during the rainy season.  This state of affairs,  the people of Bakau lament, is “unsustainable and needs urgent action to modernise the town.”Unda Nyang, a senior member of the NPP, appealed to the government to expedite renovation works of the Independence Stadium to enable the Gambia to host home games and boost chances of qualification for major tournaments. The executive coordinator for the Kanifing Municipality,  Bakary Singhateh lauded the President and his government for the many development projects in the Municipality that have greatly improved the lives and livelihoods of the people. The Minister for Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie, disclosed that the government has spent funds to renovate and modernise the Independence Stadium, adding that works will be completed by March of next year.  He defended the slow pace of the works, arguing that since it's construction 40 years ago, the stadium has never been renovated. The sports minister urged the people of the Municipality to hold the Kanifing Municipal Council to account, adding that since assuming office,  the Council has not undertaken any meaningful development initiative to plough back taxes to the people. The Minister for Health, Dr Ahmadou Lamin Samateh, disclosed that the government will build a health post in Bakau to provide primary health care to the people. President Adama Barrow called Bakau a “historic settlement that has played a prominent role in the political life of the country,”  but reassured that as President he does not discriminate against any community.He pledged to modernise Bakau by replicating the Banjul project to construct all the roads, drainage and sewage systems. Responding to appeals from the women, the President instructed the Fisheries Ministry to provide two fishing boats to the community of Bakau. He also announced that seven selected youths will be awarded D100,000 each to venture into economic activities. The President also demanded accountability from the KMC, urging taxpayers to demand that the Municipal authorities invest in projects that will improve the lives of the people. President Barrow finally paid tribute to his longtime political mentor, Dembo Bojang, who died a few months ago. He described the late politician as a political heavyweight who dominated politics in Bakau and stood by him during the most trying times of his political journey.  The President described him as a “great patriot, who loved Bakau and always worked for the interest of his people.” He concluded by thanking Bakau for welcoming him with a massive reception,  and promised a brighter future for the town and its inhabitants 

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PRESIDENT BARROW REASSURES GAMBIANS OF COMMITMENT TO RENOVATING INDEPENDENCE STADIUM

His Excellency Adama Barrow, the President of the Republic of The Gambia, has reassured Gambians that his government is committed to renovating the iconic Independence Stadium to international standards. The President made the remarks after visiting the stadium in Bakau to assess the ongoing renovation works, which are designed to upgrade infrastructure and services to the required FIFA standards. The President also laid the foundation stone of a fish smoking market and toured the KG 5 mini stadium in Banjul The President first arrived at the proposed fish smoking site in Banjul,  where he laid the foundation stone for the construction of a modern environmentally friendly fish smoking market.  Until its demolition,  the makeshift market was occupied by more than 60 women fish vendors who made a living by smoking fish for sale. During his tour last year, the President was approached by the women vendors who pleaded with him to construct a modern fish smoking facility for them.  True to his promise, the President set up a committee headed by the Vice President to mobilise funds to construct the market.The contract for the construction of the market is supervised by Gamworks, the government agency for the management of public works. According to the Project Director, Elizabeth Carayol Ndong,   the work entails the construction of modern and environmentally friendly smoke houses to cater for the needs of the women and vendors.The women vendors and fishermen expressed profound gratitude to the president for fulfilling his promise, adding that the new market will empower vendors and modernise fish handling and processing in Banjul.The regional coordinator for Banjul Ebrima Jawo described the development as another milestone for the city, which has seen unprecedented developments under President Barrow's leadership. He thanked the President and urged the women vendors to take advantage of this opportunity to contribute to the development of the city.The foundation-laying ceremony attracted wild celebrations from the women vendors, who cheered the President and thanked him for empowering them. Women play an important role in the Fisheries sector, mostly specialising in fish processing and handling.  This modern market, specifically designed for smoking catfish, is expected to maximise and solidify Banjul's place as the foremost producer of one of the most prized catfish in The Gambia.  The project is expected to finish within 6 months.The President later drove to the KG5 mini stadium, just a few hundred metres from the market, which is equally undergoing construction works to modernise the pitch to CAF standards. The President was received by notable Banjulians and representatives of the youth. Speaking to GRTS, the Project Manager from Gamworks, Sheriff Ndow, disclosed that works are now at the final stages after all the preparatory works have been completed.The youths of Banjul commended the President and his government for restoring the mini stadium to international standards. As the only football field in Banjul,  this development,  the youths argued, will enable the city to resume its nawettan tournament in earnest.President Barrow also thanked the youths for their patience and reassured them that the government will do everything possible to promote sports participation by providing the necessary infrastructure for young people. The President completed his tour of project sites with a visit to the Independence Stadium, where works are progressing to build the roads around the stadium as required by the continental football body CAF.President Barrow was briefed by contractors and site supervisors on the progress of the works, with assurances that they will be completed by the end of this month.  This development will lay to rest speculation about the state of affairs at the country's only stadium, which has been undergoing massive renovation and modernisation works. The President called for patience and reassured that the government is committed to ensuring that all works meet international standards as required by Caf and FIFA.He thanked all stakeholders for the hard work and tasked them to ensure the timely completion of the works to enable the country to host football matches at home.

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SANNA MANJANG CHARGED WITH TRIPLE MURDER

Former Gambia Armed Forces member Sanna Manjang, accused of human rights abuses under ex-president Yahya Jammeh, faces three murder counts from 2005-2006, including the killings of Dayda Hydara, Ndong Mboob, and Haruna Jammeh. The case has been transferred to the High Court, with Manjang remanded to Mile II Central Prison. 

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  • GRTS
  • December 3, 2025 08:08
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EXTRADITED: SANNA MANJANG NOTORIOUS JUNGLER RETURN TO GAMBIA TO FACE JUSTICE 

Sanna Manjang, a former member of the notorious "Junglers" hit squad, has been extradited to The Gambia from Senegal, where he was arrested on November 29, 2025.Manjang is accused of gross human rights violations during former President Yahya Jammeh's rule, including torture, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings. He was handed over to the Gambia Armed Forces Military Police by the Senegalese Military at Giboro village under heavy armed presence.Senegalese and Gambian authorities taking pictures before the handover: “Manjang is named in the findings of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission for his central role in torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings carried out by the Junglers.”The extradition marks a significant step in The Gambia's pursuit of justice and accountability for past human rights abuses. Sanna's arrest and extradition demonstrate the country's commitment to holding perpetrators accountable and providing closure for victims and their families.WHAT NEXT?Manjang is expected to face legal proceedings in The Gambia, where he will be processed in accordance with the law. His extradition and potential prosecution serve as a testament to the country's determination to confront its past and ensure accountability for human rights abuses.

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  • GRTS
  • December 2, 2025 09:49
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GAMBIA IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT SHATTERS REVENUE RECORDS WITH D584 MILLION COLLECTION IN 9 MONTHS

The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) has announced a groundbreaking revenue collection of D584,414,478.30 from January to October 2025, representing a 112% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This impressive performance surpasses the annual total collection of 2024, which stood at D420,219,024.00, marking a 39% increase.The revenue was generated through the Gambia Biometric Identification System, Immigration Fees, and the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS). According to the GID, this achievement underscores the crucial role the department plays in strengthening the government's consolidated revenue base.The GID has expanded the accessibility of national documents to Gambians, both at home and abroad, reaffirming the government's commitment to safeguarding the rights of Gambians. The department is also accelerating the rollout of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC), easing identification and regional integration.Despite this significant achievement, the GID continues to face challenges, including resource constraints, mobility challenges, and legislative gaps that affect the effective implementation of immigration management and border governance. The department is committed to curbing irregular migration, promoting access to legal identity, and building the capacity of immigration staff to sustain a robust, efficient, and service-driven institution.GID Director General Ebrima Mboob reaffirmed the department's commitment to closing revenue leakages, embracing technology, and upholding standards in immigration law. The GID calls on local authorities, landlords, and communities to remain vigilant and support the department in the enforcement of alien registration and safeguarding the territorial sovereignty of The Gambia.

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  • GID
  • December 2, 2025 03:39
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GRA HOSTS SIERRA LEONE COUNTERPARTS FOR STUDY TOUR ON DIGITAL EXCISE TAX STAMP SOLUTION

The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) has welcomed a high-level delegation from the Sierra Leone National Revenue Authority (SLNRA) for a strategic study tour focused on implementing the SICPA digital excise tax stamp solution. This visit marks the first time SLNRA has sent its top officials to engage with GRA counterparts in The Gambia, highlighting the country's growing reputation as a regional leader in taxation.The study tour aims to strengthen cooperation between the two institutions and provide a platform for GRA officials to share their experience in advancing revenue collection in a digital era. The visiting delegation will learn about the SICPA project's implementation, including the legal frameworks used to enforce its implementation, and participate in field tours to gain first-hand knowledge of the project's impact.The GRA's experience with the SICPA project has positioned The Gambia as a model for regional taxation, and this visit will enable SLNRA officials to learn from their counterparts and enhance revenue collection in Sierra Leone. This five-day exchange visit underscores the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing between revenue authorities in the region.

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GAMBIA'S PRESIDENT BARROW CALLS FOR ACCOUNTABILITY FOR COLONIAL-ERA CRIMES AS SENEGAL COMMEMORATES TTHIAROYEMASSACRE

President Adama Barrow has paid tribute to the brave Senegalese riflemen who were massacred by French colonial forces in Thiaroye, Senegal, during World War II. Speaking at the 81st anniversary commemoration of the infamous Thiaroye Massacre, President Barrow called for accountability for crimes committed by colonial empires against Africans during the colonial period.The ceremony, attended by several high-ranking delegations from across Africa, shines a spotlight on one of the most brutal acts of betrayal and barbarity in colonial history. Over 300 Senegalese riflemen were massacred by French colonial forces for demanding pay after liberating France from Nazi Germany.President Barrow described the massacre as a "cold-blooded murder" and paid homage to the Africans who fought on the side of the Allies during World War II, commending them for their courage and sacrifice. He also commended the Senegalese government for setting up a committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the massacre and immortalise the exploits of Senegalese soldiers who participated in the liberation of France.The Gambian leader emphasised the importance of teaching future generations about the sacrifices and contributions of Africans in the Second World War, adding that their legacy should serve as valuable lessons for Africans to take hold of their destiny.The President of Senegal, Basirou Diomaye Faye, thanked President Barrow for gracing the commemorations and reaffirmed his government's commitment to work closely with France to find closure to one of the darkest chapters in French colonial history.

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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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