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PRESIDENT BARROW LAUNCHES MASSIVE ELECTRICITY PROJECT

His Excellency President Adama Barrow has commissioned the electricity access project in Panchang, located in the Upper Saloum District of the Central River Region. This initiative will provide power to 157 rural communities in the area, significantly contributing to socio-economic development, curbing rural-urban migration, promoting education, and empowering local residents.The inauguration ceremony marks a historic milestone in The Gambia's efforts to achieve universal electricity access by the end of the year. Attendees included senior government officials and various members of the community.During his welcoming remarks, the Alkalo of Panchang, Hassum Ceesay, expressed gratitude to the President for fulfilling his promise to the people, calling the project groundbreaking and life-changing. This sentiment was echoed by Hamidu Sey, the Chief of Upper Saloum, who praised the President for his decentralised development initiatives across the country.Chief Dawda York of Nianija noted that the President’s various development projects have ensured equality among Gambians, with resources being distributed evenly to benefit all citizens, regardless of their region. He emphasised that electricity has historically been viewed as a luxury for a select few, but under the President’s leadership, all communities now have access to it. He urged all Gambians to unite, support the President, and aid in accelerating national development.Lady Councillor Mariama Bah stated that rural women are now more empowered than ever in The Gambia's history, thanks to life-changing developments initiated by the President. She highlighted electricity as an essential benefit for women, especially farmers and vendors, as it will ease their burdens and enhance economic activities. She thanked the President for his vision and foresight, promising that women would show their appreciation by voting for him in the upcoming December election.Central River Region Governor Ousman Bah acknowledged the numerous development projects undertaken over the past nine years under President Barrow’s leadership. He emphasised that this electricity access project will revitalise the local economy, create employment opportunities, and empower rural communities. "Furthermore, this project will help address rural-urban migration, as many skilled individuals will now have the incentive to remain and work in their communities," the Governor stated.The project is funded by the African Development Bank as part of the Gambia Electricity Access Project. Fatima Baal, a representative of the Bank, commended the government for its strong commitment to extending universal electricity access, which she noted will help bridge the gap between rural and urban areas.Galo Saidy, the Managing Director of NAWEC, reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to providing reliable electricity access to all Gambians, stating that this project will significantlyprovidingt rural communities.In his remarks, President Barrow emphasised that electricity access is a top priority for his government and announced that The Gambia is on track to achieve universal electricity access by the end of the year, making it the first country in West Africa to reach this ambitious goal. He acknowledged the longstanding struggle of rural communities to access electricity and affirmed that this project marks a turning point in the country's history.The President highlighted the considerable benefits that electricity brings to people’s lives and encouraged residents to leverage this new development to drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and transform their circumstances.He reassured Gambians that his government would continue to expand access this year, revealing that over D500 million had already been allocated for investment in the electricity sector.Following the ceremony, the President travelled to Nyanga Bantang, where he switched on the lights, delighting the residents who celebrated this significant milestone.

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UNFPA Partners with Gambian Government on Healthcare

President Adama Barrow received the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Regional Director for West Africa, Dr Sennen Hounton, at the State House. Dr Hounton is in The Gambia to assess the agency's work and engage in discussions with officials to enhance collaboration and cooperation. During this visit, the President also met with the newly formed Board of Directors of the Banjul International Convention Centre, which manages the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre and the VVIP lounge at the airport.Dr Hounton's visit aims to promote sexual and reproductive rights for women and children by evaluating the agency's efforts in The Gambia and connecting with relevant stakeholders.After his discussion with the President, Dr Hounton described the meeting as productive, noting that both parties agreed to strengthen their partnership in areas such as maternal and child health, the elimination of violence against women and girls, and access to healthcare.He reassured that the UNFPA is committed to supporting The Gambia in its goal to eliminate maternal and child mortality by 2030.In a separate engagement, the Board of Directors of the Banjul International Convention Centre paid a courtesy visit to the President to update him on the activities of the newly constituted Board, which oversees the management and operations of the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre and the airport's VVIP lounge.After their meeting, the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mawdo C. Juwara, expressed that the discussion provided an opportunity to inform the President about recent developments at the Conference Centre.Yankuba Dibba, the Chief Executive Officer of the Banjul International Convention Centre, shared that the new board and management have implemented the necessary policies and strategies to ensure smooth and profitable operations in accordance with legal requirements.He thanked the President and his government for their support of the BICC and pledged to ensure the centre and the airport lounge operate effectively and profitably.

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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

Latest Updates

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𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐍 𝐀𝐅𝐅𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐒 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐒 𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐎𝐍 𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐁𝐎𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐕𝐎𝐋𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐌𝐈𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐒

𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐋, 𝟒𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad expresses its deep sadness following reports of a boat incident involving migrants and extends its sincere condolences to the families and loved ones affected. The Ministry conveys its solidarity with all those awaiting information regarding the whereabouts and well-being of their relatives.At this stage, the identities and nationalities of the persons reportedly on board have not been officially verified. While preliminary information suggests that the vessel may have departed from The Gambia, the Ministry is engaging with the Spanish authorities and other relevant stakeholders to establish the circumstances of the incident and verify the information currently available.The Ministry is also liaising with the relevant Spanish authorities and, through its National Focal Point under the Rabat Process, maintaining contact with relevant counterparts and partners, including IOM and ICRC, as appropriate, to facilitate information-sharing and contribute to efforts to clarify the situation.The Ministry is mindful of the distress and uncertainty being experienced by families whose relatives may be missing. The Ministry therefore urges the public and all concerned to exercise caution regarding information that has not been officially verified, as inaccurate reports may cause further distress to affected families. Further information will be communicated, as appropriate, once the relevant facts have been established and verified.The Ministry remains concerned about the continued risks associated with dangerous and irregular migration journeys. It underscores the importance of continued cooperation among relevant authorities and stakeholders to promote safe and regular migration and protect vulnerable migrants from exploitation.The Ministry extends its deepest sympathies to all families and communities affected by this incident and appreciates the public's understanding, patience, and cooperation as efforts to establish the facts continue.

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PRESIDENT BARROW INAUGURATES NEW MOSQUE IN GUNJUR

President Adama Barrow on Friday inaugurated a new mosque in Gunjur, a project funded by the Presidency. The ceremony drew cabinet ministers, senior government officials, religious leaders, elders, and residents of Gunjur and neighbouring settlements.On arrival, President Barrow was received by West Coast Region Governor Ousman Bojang and the Minister of Regional Government, Lands and Religious Affairs, Hamat N.K. Bah, along with other dignitaries.(Minister of Regional Government, Lands and Religious Affairs, Hamat N.K. Bah welcoming President Barrow as he arrived in Gunjur.)By noon, the mosque and its compound were filled, with many others seated outside for the historic opening.Imam Alhagie Muhammed Lamin Touray led the prayer service. In his sermon, he preached peace, unity, and stability, and urged Muslims to fulfil their religious obligations with dedication.(Imam Alhagie Muhammed Lamin Touray, who was a former President of The Gambia's Supreme Islamic Council, delivering the sermon.)The Imam then led the two-rakat prayer marking the official inauguration of the mosque.Speaking after prayers, Imam Touray expressed profound gratitude to President Barrow for sponsoring the construction. He recalled past challenges the community faced in raising funds for a mosque, and said the President had fulfilled their long-held dream."This singular act will enhance the spiritual development of the community," Imam Touray said. He also thanked women, youth, and religious leaders for their support during the project.(President Barrow flanked by Chief Falalo Touray and Alkalo Dembo Darboe of Gunjur.)Chief Falalo Touray and Alkalo Dembo Darboe of Gunjur also commended the President. They noted that the mosque, together with ongoing road and infrastructure projects, will promote the religious and social development of Gunjur. They urged residents to support the President to enable him to continue his development agenda.Minister Hamat N.K. Bah described the mosque as one of the most modern in the country, built to meet contemporary architectural standards.He disclosed that President Barrow has funded several mosque projects nationwide, reflecting his commitment to Islam and the spiritual development of Muslims.The Minister echoed calls for Gambians to support the President’s re-election bid in December. He also thanked elders and religious leaders for preaching peace and tolerance, and urged them to continue guiding to preserve national tranquillity.In his inaugural statement, President Barrow thanked the Gunjur community for the honour, noting he had long pledged to support the project.(President Barrow addressing worshippers after the prayer.)He described Gunjur as a historic Islamic settlement that produced renowned scholars including Omar Bun Jeng and Hatab Bojang. He said mosques play a vital role in the spiritual and moral development of society.The President thanked anonymous donors who supported the construction and urged the community to pray for them. He called the mosque a progressive project that has changed the infrastructural landscape of Gunjur.President Barrow challenged residents to take good care of the mosque and its facilities, and pledged government support for its upkeep and maintenance.On the upcoming December elections, the President urged Gambians to pray for peace. He reassured the nation of the government’s commitment to a smooth and credible process."There are no losers in elections," President Barrow said. "A peaceful and credible process promotes The Gambia’s image as a democratic country."The President departed Gunjur to a large farewell crowd.

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DR. FATOU BENSOUDA HONOURED WITH NELSON MANDELA ANNUAL LECTURE AWARD

Dr Fatou Bensouda, High Commissioner of The Gambia to the United Kingdom, has received the prestigious Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture Award for her outstanding contribution to the promotion of the rule of law, justice, and human rights globally.Dr Bensouda delivered the 19th Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture in 2021. In recognition of that address and her longstanding commitment to justice and accountability, the Nelson Mandela Foundation honoured her with a commemorative award bust.During Dr Bensouda’s visit to South Africa in November 2025, the Foundation proposed to present the award in person. Due to time constraints, it was received on her behalf by Her Excellency Fatoumatta Jahumpa Ceesay, High Commissioner of The Gambia to South Africa, in Pretoria.Madam Jahumpa Ceesay later brought the award to London, where she formally presented it to Dr Bensouda in a brief ceremony at the Gambian High Commission.The recognition places Dr Bensouda among a distinguished group of global leaders associated with the Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture. Past lecturers and honourees include former U.S. President Barack Obama, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, former South African President Thabo Mbeki, Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai, and philanthropist Bill Gates.The Annual Lecture is one of the Foundation’s flagship programmes and celebrates individuals who advance the values of human dignity, justice, and equality championed by Nelson Mandela.The award is a fitting acknowledgement of Dr Bensouda’s distinguished career in international law. As former Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, she played a key role in advancing accountability for war crimes and crimes against humanity.The High Commission said the honour reflects not only Dr Bensouda’s personal legacy, but also The Gambia’s continued commitment to justice, the rule of law, and human rights on the global stage.

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𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐍 𝐀𝐅𝐅𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐒 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐒 𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐎𝐍 𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐁𝐎𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐕𝐎𝐋𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐌𝐈𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐒

𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐋, 𝟒𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad expresses its deep sadness following reports of a boat incident involving migrants and extends its sincere condolences to the families and loved ones affected. The Ministry conveys its solidarity with all those awaiting information regarding the whereabouts and well-being of their relatives.At this stage, the identities and nationalities of the persons reportedly on board have not been officially verified. While preliminary information suggests that the vessel may have departed from The Gambia, the Ministry is engaging with the Spanish authorities and other relevant stakeholders to establish the circumstances of the incident and verify the information currently available.The Ministry is also liaising with the relevant Spanish authorities and, through its National Focal Point under the Rabat Process, maintaining contact with relevant counterparts and partners, including IOM and ICRC, as appropriate, to facilitate information-sharing and contribute to efforts to clarify the situation.The Ministry is mindful of the distress and uncertainty being experienced by families whose relatives may be missing. The Ministry therefore urges the public and all concerned to exercise caution regarding information that has not been officially verified, as inaccurate reports may cause further distress to affected families. Further information will be communicated, as appropriate, once the relevant facts have been established and verified.The Ministry remains concerned about the continued risks associated with dangerous and irregular migration journeys and underscores the importance of continued cooperation among relevant authorities and stakeholders to promote safe and regular migration and protect vulnerable migrants from exploitation.The Ministry extends its deepest sympathies to all families and communities affected by this incident and appreciates the understanding, patience and cooperation of the public as efforts to establish the facts continue.

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PRESIDENT BARROW TOURS LANDMARK PROJECTS, MEETS GAMBIAN COMMUNITY IN LIBREVILLE

On the sidelines of his visit to the Republic of Gabon, President Adama Barrow on Monday toured landmark projects in the capital, Libreville, and met with members of the Gambian community.The President, accompanied by First Lady Fatou Bah Barrow, began with a visit to a major hotel constructed by a Turkish conglomerate that has helped transform Gabon’s hospitality industry.The Chief Executive Officer conducted President Barrow and the First Lady on a guided tour of the hotel located on the shores of the coastal city.President Barrow was then driven to the site of one of Gabon and Central Africa’s most ambitious projects — a twisting tower that, when completed, will be the tallest building in the sub-region.Gabonese and Turkish contractors briefed the President on the progress of the tower and related infrastructure. The project is expected to be ready for inauguration next year and will permanently transform the skyline of the Central African nation. The gesture mirrored the tour accorded to President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema during his recent visit to The Gambia.Following the site visit, President Barrow and the First Lady proceeded to the Radisson Blu Hotel for a meeting with Gambians living in Gabon.Consul General Saikou Dukureh welcomed the President and thanked him for the engagement. He described Gambians in Gabon as hardworking, united, and law-abiding, and commended the government for supporting their welfare.Jakarta Dampha, a community representative, said there has been marked improvement in the well-being of Gambians in Gabon since President Barrow took office. He noted that the President’s leadership has ensured that Gambians in the diaspora are not discriminated against and that their concerns are addressed promptly.Hawa Dukureh, speaking on behalf of the youth, commended the President for dispatching a team of immigration officials to issue national documents. She said nearly 200 people were processed, but appealed for support to ensure the passports are delivered.In his remarks, President Barrow expressed gratitude for the warm reception at the airport, which he said even impressed his host, President Oligui Nguema.He said dialogue is key to national unity and described it as a great honour to serve as Chief Guest of Honour at Gabon’s Independence Anniversary.On diaspora support, the President reaffirmed his government’s commitment to assisting Gambians abroad. He said the decision to send immigration officials to Gabon was to ensure citizens have access to documents. He pledged to prioritise the delivery of all processed passports upon his return to Banjul.The President also updated the community on developments at home. He said the government has laid the foundation stone for 1,500 km of roads across the country and highlighted progress in electricity, health, transport, and education.With the December presidential election approaching, President Barrow encouraged those with voter cards to exercise their right, and urged those without to encourage family and friends to vote for continuity.He concluded by urging the community to maintain unity, peace, and respect for lawful authority. He also advised Gambians seeking repatriation to apply through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a smooth process.

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PRESIDENT BARROW JOINS GABON'S 66TH INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATIONS IN LIBREVILLE

The President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, joined the people of Gabon on Monday to celebrate the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary with a grand military parade in the capital, Libreville.The national day celebrations were held at the Palais de l’Indépendance in central Libreville. President Barrow, accompanied by First Lady Fatou Bah Barrow, served as Chief Guest of Honour.The ceremony was attended by several African leaders, including Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Carlos Vila Nova, President of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe, and General Horta Nta, Interim President of Guinea-Bissau.Gabonese President Gen. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, presided over the official celebrations.Ahead of the parade, President Oligui Nguema inaugurated La Concorde, a memorial dedicated to Georges Damas Aleka, composer of Gabon’s national anthem. A representative of Aleka’s family received a posthumous award in honour of his contribution as one of the architects of modern Gabon.The main highlight was a parade by the armed and security services. Detachments from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Special Operations Forces, and Commandos marched past the Commander-in-Chief.Units of the Police also participated, including General Services, the Special Intervention Group, Riot Control, and the K-9 Unit. The Fire Service, Ambulance Service, and Medical Corps also took part.The second phase featured a display of military hardware. Dozens of armoured personnel carriers, rocket launchers, artillery, and anti-aircraft guns rolled through the boulevard, while military aircraft and helicopters conducted a flypast overhead.Service vehicles operated by the Armed Forces, Police, Paramilitary, and Engineering Corps were also displayed, marking the end of the parade.Following the ceremony, President Barrow and First Lady Fatou Bah Barrow were driven to the Presidential Palace for a reception hosted by President Oligui Nguema and First Lady Zita Oligui Nguema.

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