Unidentifeid corpse found on TUI flight from banjul to London
A press release from the office of the government spokesperson
Continue Reading >>A press release from the office of the government spokesperson
Continue Reading >>The Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie has promised to share the resolution of the 2022 youth conference to all stakeholders for implementation. Minister Badgie was addressing delegates the opening ceremony of the National youth conference and festival held in Banjul. He said the documents would not be left to gather dust and that follow up mechanisms have been devised to enable smooth implementation of the resolutions.He said the Government of the Gambia has ratified the National Youth Policy that highlighted challenges such as migration, youth unemployment and skills acquisition.
Continue Reading >>During his opening statement at the 13th National Youth Conference and Festival in Banjul, President Barrow encouraged the youths to work together closely to guarantee prosperity and stability to ensure future generations lead comfortable lives in peace.“I acknowledge the strides taken by the National Youth Council to bring all the youths under one umbrella and represent their interests.With certainty, there cannot be any peace anywhere without the absolute cooperation of the youth; so, I advise all young persons and citizens in the country to remain peaceful and law-abiding and defend or claim their rights civilly and democratically.” President Barrow saidPointing that The Gambia boast of a youthful population, which has immense potential to develop and a lot to tap into the younger generation, the President said it is essential, therefore, to hear their voice and listen to them attentively. “NAYCONF is an event that allows this to happen. It also creates openings to explore and promote youth matters and to chart new pathways in the youth's best interest and from their perspective.” He stated. The convergence is a biannual activity that brings together young people from all regions in The Gambia and beyond to discuss issues affecting them. The theme for this year’s conference, hosted by the Capital City, Banjul, is; The Role of Young People in the Maintenance of Peace and Security for Socio-Economic Development Opportunities and Challenges. The opening ceremony was marked by a match pass and a spectacular display of culture by the seven regions represented.President Barrow Urges Gambian Youths to Take the Lead in Jealously Safeguarding the Peace and Security During his opening statement at the 13th National Youth Conference and Festival in Banjul, President Barrow encouraged the youths to work together closely to guarantee prosperity and stability to ensure future generations lead comfortable lives in peace. “I acknowledge the strides taken by the National Youth Council to bring all the youths under one umbrella and represent their interests.With certainty, there cannot be any peace anywhere without the absolute cooperation of the youth; so, I advise all young persons and citizens in the country to remain peaceful and law-abiding and defend or claim their rights civilly and democratically.” President Barrow saidPointing that The Gambia boast of a youthful population, which has immense potential to develop and a lot to tap into the younger generation, the President said it is essential, therefore, to hear their voice and listen to them attentively. “NAYCONF is an event that allows this to happen. It also creates openings to explore and promote youth matters and to chart new pathways in the youth's best interest and from their perspective.” He stated. The convergence is a biannual activity that brings together young people from all regions in The Gambia and beyond to discuss issues affecting them. The theme for this year’s conference, hosted by the Capital City, Banjul, is; The Role of Young People in the Maintenance of Peace and Security for Socio-Economic Development Opportunities and Challenges. The opening ceremony was marked by a match pass and a spectacular display of culture by the seven regions represented.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow, Tuesday, embarked on a tour of the ongoing OIC infrastructural projects to see firsthand the progress of work on the sites. The President visited the nearly finished VVIP lounge at the Banjul International Airport, the Bertil Harding-Highway, the Brufut connection roads, and the Tujereng-Kunkujang-road in the company of some Cabinet Ministers, senior government officials, and representatives from the OIC Gambia Secretariat.During the six-hour visit, the President was also taken to the Nawec Jabang 225kv substation, where he was informed that the station will reduce the frequent instances of low power voltage. He also went to the Nawec water treatment facility. President Barrow also visited Tanji and Tujereng Upper Basic Schools, where the construction of additional classrooms and staff quarters is underway. At the wrap of the day, the President visited the completed Brikama market, where a large cheering crowd received him.
Continue Reading >>The Gambia is among four African countries selected to forge new partnerships with the US government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation to develop new grant programs to boost economic development, among other things, according to a release from the US Embassy in Banjul,‘’During its annual “selection” meeting held last week, MCC’s Board — which is chaired by the U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken — selected The Gambia and Togo as eligible to develop compacts, MCC’s five-year grant program that focuses on large-scale infrastructure investments and address policy and institutional reforms.’’ The release stated. “Today’s announcement is symbolic of both the United States’ enduring commitment to Africa and MCC’s dedication to creating a stronger, more resilient global community,” said MCC’s Chief Executive Officer Alice Albright. “Our Board’s selection of these countries affirms each country’s aspiration or commitment to democratic principles as well as their intentions to make the investments and institutional changes necessary to build a more prosperous future for their communities. The MCC Board’s decision comes at a critical time, and we look forward to working together with each country to develop a program that will address the most pressing challenges facing their economies.”The Millennium Challenge Corporation is an independent U.S. government agency working to reduce global poverty through economic growth. Created in 2004, MCC provides time-limited grants and assistance to countries that meet rigorous standards for good governance, fighting corruption and respecting democratic rights.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow has promised a huge fishing project in the coastal communities of kombo South District. The president disclosed at Tujereng village that his government has secured the funds to implement a fishing project that will transform the the fishing industry in the area. He stated that the project includes the development of the infrastructure and facilities at fish landing sites as well as training and provision of start up capital for beneficiaries. He however called on young Gambians to embrace the opportunity, saying the project is meant to end the domination of the sector by non-Gambians. He described the area as the converging point for irregular migration and called on the youths to desist from it and use the opportunities his creating for them. President re-echoed his for the communities to provide the needed land for government projects. He expressed Frustration over unnecessary claims over land that earmarked for projects that would benefit the country. The Minister of Lands Regional Government and Religious affairs Sheriff Abba Sanyang warned against settling on government reserve lands. The Minister of Works Transport and Infrastructure Ebrima Sillah disclosed that government has allocated over three billion dalasi to his Ministry earmarked for road construction. Minister Sillah highlighted several key roads linking coastal communities which would be constructed from 2023 to 2024.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow continues the second leg of his meet the people tour on Friday with a large meeting at Mandinaring in the West Coast Region. Addressing the gathering, President Barrow advised youths to be more proactive in academic and skills development to acquire market relevant qualifications to boost their employment opportunities. He also advised against irregular migration, saying those who want to travel should explore regular and legal means. Responding to the requests made by people in the area, the Gambian leader disclosed that government will construct major feeder roads, gardens and water projects in the area as well as extend access to electricity in Mandinaring, kubariko, kunjang jattaya, Latriaya and Bafuloto in 2023. He said that he will surprise Gambians with a great news in the coming weeks which will further cement his government's status as a development-oriented administration. The Minister of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs Sheriff Abba Sanyang urges Gambians to ensure the proper management and judious utilization of land. Minister Sanyang also called on traditional and religious leaders to follow the due process of inheritance to enable women to acquire land for agriculture and residential purposes. He advise people to acquire development permits to prevent the demolition of their properties after construction. The Minister of Works Transport and Infrastructure Ebrima Sillah highlighted various feeder roads tgat would be constructed in the area. This he said include Old Yundum, Tabokoto-Banjulinding Road, Lamin-Babilon road and Wellingara - Abuko road among others. The Minister of Tourism and culture called on the people to continue supporting the government. Several other Speakers Including the Paramount Chief Alh. Momodou Bojang, Alkalo Faa Ceesay of Mandinaring, Ramou Camara and Tida Suwaneh all described president Barrow as a champion of peace, democracy and good governance. They also thanked the president and his government for numerous developments projects in their respective communities. The speakers used the occasion to appeal for more feeder roads, electricity expansion, youth and women empowerment initiatives among other needs of their communities.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow has promised to construct more roads in the kombo central, kombo east and kombo south districts. He disclosed at a meeting in Brikama that his government is working on electricity projects in all the districts in kombo which will see most of the settlements in these areas electrified. He also disclosed that the World Bank would be funding major hospital projects in the West Coast and Upper River Regions. He said Brikama has been identified for the hospital. While a site has already been identified and confirmed in URR, President said a site for the construction of the Hospital in Brikama remains a big challenge. He called on the people of Brikam to quickly identify a suitable site for the construction of the hospital. President Barrow said his government is embarking on major development projects among them more than one thousand kilometre road network. He said the majority of those roads would be constructed in the west coast region. President Barrow is continuing his meet the people with meetings in Mansinary on Friday and Tajereng on Saturday. President Barrow will also hold a rally in Tallinding before wrapping up the three week tour with a meeting in Banjul on Monday.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow has promised to bring unprecedented development to the Foni region. The president was speaking at Sibanorr as he embark on the second leg of the meet the people tour. President Barrow told the gathering that his government would construct a 50km road network in Foni. Responding to requests for more electrification of the region President Barrow would extend elctricity to over 50 communities in Foni. The President spoke of the importance of skills development and therefore encouraged young people to engage in skills development inorder to self-employed. The President had a stop Toubakuta enroute to Foni where he visited Gikay Farms. Gikay Farms uses modern irrigation and horticultural techniques, working with graduates from Chamen Agricultural Centre.
Continue Reading >>DUBAWA STARTS FACT-CHECKING FELLOWSHIP FOR WEST AFRICAN JOURNALISTSIn a bid to strengthen fact-checking, the Center for Journalism innovation and Development (CJID) through its fact-checking project DUBAWA inducted a fresh cohort of participants in its latent fact-checking training for Journalists in West Africa with trainees drawn from the The Gambia, Nigeria, Sierra Leon, Liberia and Ghana.The fellowship is part of Dubawa’s effort to curb the swift spread of misinformation and instill a broad focus on fact-checking in newsrooms.The Fact-Checking Fellowship is designed to equip journalists with requisite skills to combat misinformation in their various countries. The fellowship is structured to run for a duration of three months commencing with an intensive four-day training.Participants will be taken through requisite modules ranging from “understanding the information Disorder Ecosystem, Media information Literacy, Data presentation, fact-checking tools” and other relevant areas to expose fellows to the art of fact-checking and prepare them for the task ahead.The Kwame Karikari Fellowship is supported by the “National Endowment for Democracy (NED). The fellows will receive mentorship to continue creating content for their various mediums.This opportunity will immensely support journalists to amplify factual news and help mitigate the spread of misinformation and Disinformation.
Continue Reading >>The President H.E Adama Barrow wrapped up his Meet the People Tour in the Upper River Region with a meeting in Koli Bantang in Wuli West, which was also attended by constituents from Wuli East and Sandu.Issues surrounding agriculture, road infrastructure, electricity and horticulture dominated the agenda with speakers calling on government to increase investments to help local communities. The Lady councillor Fatoumata Saho led the chorus, commending the President for the numerous developments that have transformed the region. The youth representative Yorro Camara and Fansainey Barrow called for more government support to enhance agricultural production in the region, arguing that the URR has the potential to produce enough to meet the needs of the people. As the prices of basic foodstuff increases beyond the reach of ordinary people, Fansainey Barrow called for a radical shift to boost local production. Mbemba Jabbi also appealed to government to revise the tariff at the Samba Juma bridge as the toll is deemed too high for local drivers, and commuters who now use boats to cross the river.Chief Momodou Bah of Wuli West expressed gratitude to the President for what he called his commendable response to current coat of living crisis, which he attributed to external factors, urging Gambians to turn these challenges into opportunities.The Governor of the Upper River Region Samba Bah said his region has seen unprecedented developments under President Barrow, urging people to nurture the prevailing peace and stability. The Governor said several rural communities in the region have benefitted from the NAFAA cash transfer initiative designed to reduce poverty amongst farmers, whilst also revealing plans to construct a regional hospital in Giroba Kunda.The Minister of Works, Construction and Infrastructure Ebrima Sillah said the next five years will be momentous for the URR as studies have already been completed for the construction of half a dozen feeder roads across the region. He road projects, the Minister added will be funded from the national budget in line with the President's development agenda which priorities infrastructure as the engine of economic growth. The Minister of Regional Government and Lands Abba Sanyang expressed concern with the indiscriminate dumping of waste in public places, adding that government is exploring possibilities of re-introducing the monthly cleansing exercises across the country. The Lands Minister also urged local communities to resolve land related disputes peacefully, as these conflicts could upend the existing peace and stability in the country.The President H.E Adama Barrow closed the meeting, commending the people of Wuli and Sandu for the impressive turnout. The President harped on the importance of dialogue in fostering understanding amongst people, describing the tour ad an important platform for exchange of views on national development. The President said his government has laid a robust foundation for socio-economic and infrastructural development, adding that the next five years will usher in more opportunities for citizens. With the groundnut trade season beginning on December 1st, President Barrow announced that government has increased the price of a ton from D28000 to D3200, to help farmers. Speaking about the current economic situation, President Barrow blamed the covid19 pandemic for disrupting supply chains across the world leading to a rise in prices of basic commodities, but reassured that government has taken adequate steps to stabilise prices. Responding to appeals for more electricity access, President Barrow revealed that more than 200 villages will get electricity in URR.The President also addressed concerns raised by some speakers about the recent introduction of a toll at the Samba Juma bridge, saying the fee is justified to enable government raise funds for the upkeep of the bridge. The construction of the bridge, President Barrow added has made life easier for residents as it is safer, quicker and cheaper compared to the boats. He therefore advised communities to take ownership of the bridge and shun detractors who are bent on inciting people against the government, using social media as part of a wider political campaign. The President concluded by reassuring people that the funds generated will be used for development purposes to serve the welfare of Gambians.The tour continues in the CRR with planned meetings in Jarreng and Bansang.
Continue Reading >>Gambia’s Coastal zones particularly areas in the country’s coastal south are endowed with immense natural resources shaping multiple livelihood ventures for communities and people from all over the sub region. Ecological resources especially those in the country’s vast marine ecosystems are Critical to the population with a viable natural landscape emerging as a major focus for a sustainable blue economy agenda.Kartong is, one of the busiest coastal vicinities with a stable ecological attraction, a bustling eco tourism hub and fisheries centre perfectly placed to nurture the economic environment of the coast.Settled on a narrow strip of land, kartong’s riverside is a robust economic vicinity attracting an appealing variety of ventures., most men and women here are in the fisheries business.Fisherfolk trading different products are making ends meet from massive catches, and a chunk of the supplies are bought by women merchants in the fish business.The coastal area offers a variety of opportunities for employment and, some young men make a profit from the knitting of fishnets while readymade nets are sold to fisherfolk.Women are in the fish-smoking business, they get their fish supplies from fish trawlers and process products into smoked fish and salted dried fish which form a major part of the national diet.Women constitute a high percentage of the fish business in kartong but sometimes sales are less lucrative and women are usually left with little or no alternatives when business hits rock bottom.Fish products processed here are supplied to various fish markets or sold to women who come here to buy stocks for domestic meals.The lack of facilities amid other challenges is massively hindering the output of their business ventures as these women solely rely on fisheries to make ends meet.Women like Isatou Madeline Jarjue are engrossed in the oyster business, she and other women are making a sustainable living from the venture.This could be a dangerous venture. The sharp oyster cells have caused injuries for many women and high tides have also caused countless disasters. But some visionary projects are providing support for Isatou and her colleagues.Apart from the fish business, Eco-tourism is rapidly growing on this side of the river, the coastal zone has an incredible natural landscape giving business opportunities for tourism enthusiasts.Dodou Saidy has an established restaurant, functioning on a narrow strip of land attracting local and international visitors.The kartong halain area is rapidly growing into people’s favorite eco tourism vicinity with sumptuous seafood delights served to customers.Dodou’s restaurant attracts tourists who often visit to enjoy a serene environment and enjoy local dishes and the owner relies on catches from the river for his business but high prices and little quantity of stocks often challenge his business.Sulayman Bojang is in the cruising business guiding tourists during boat rides.The industry is taking off as kartong turns into a major tourist hotspot.The coastal residents rely on natural resources for food and income and a preserved marine ecology means more opportunities for the communiry which is keenly protecting its resources.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow has hailed the completion of the 200km Kabada roads project as a major milestone in The Gambia's infrastructural transformation. He was speaking in Jarra Wellingara Ba and Kiang Kwinella as he wrapped up the first leg of his Meet the People Tour.The President also promised to electrify the remaining communities in Lower River Region (LRR).After nearly eight days in Upper River Region (URR) and Central River Region (CRR), President Barrow crossed into LRR at the Sofanyama Bridge, which marks the boundary between the two regions.Governor Ousman Bah of CRR, alongside his Deputy Sainey Mbye, chiefs, alkalolu and regional security chiefs, saw off the President. He was received on the other side by Seedy Lamin Bah, the Governor of LRR, and regional officials, before greeting a long line of local dignitaries. After traditional ceremonies, the entourage proceeded to Wellingara Ba in Jarra Central.At Wellingara Ba football field, supporters surrounded the President’s motorcade chanting slogans in a carnival atmosphere. The meeting opened with prayers, followed by welcoming remarks from Alkalo Ali Baldeh, who reaffirmed his support and loyalty to President Barrow and assured him of votes in December.Other speakers, including Chief Ansumana Kanaji of Jarra East, Lady Councillor Sira Sabally, youth representative Lamin A. Jobe, National Assembly Member Honourable Haruna Barry and Paramount Chief Yahya Jarjusey, all renewed their support and vowed to mobilise for the President ahead of the December polls.They acknowledged the positive developments but appealed for expansion of the electricity network, more investment in agriculture, provision of cold storage facilities for women gardeners, and vaccines to protect livestock.Responding, Minister of Agriculture Dr Demba Sabally said the government will embark on a massive livestock vaccination campaign next year. He added that the government has already provided nine tractors, tilled hundreds of hectares in several communities in LRR, and built seven cold storage facilities to support women.President Barrow thanked the people of Jarra for the impressive turnout, saying it underscores the strong support he enjoys in the area. He noted that LRR has the lion’s share of his road infrastructure drive, with 200km already completed, and appealed for patience for more to come.He said he feels emotional whenever he visits Kabada, where decades of isolation left the region underdeveloped.On electricity, the President said out of 1,800 settlements nationwide, only 300 remain without electricity, adding that contracts have already been signed to connect them. He declared that his “long hand of development” will reach every community.From Wellingara Ba, the entourage proceeded to Kwinella in Kiang Central for the final meeting in LRR, where supporters lined the main road to welcome the President.Speakers heaped praise on the government for opening up what was once an isolated part of the country. Elder Fabubu Bah said the road network has opened new corridors and made the region accessible. He promised the people will repay President Barrow with votes, saying opposition ballot boxes “will come to Kabada empty and will leave empty” to loud applause.NAM for Kiang Central, Hon. Yusupha Bah, recalled the difficulties Kabada faced in the past and contrasted it with the present, where all major roads are paved, describing it as an unprecedented feat that makes President Barrow the preferred candidate. He predicted a landslide victory.The meeting was cut short by heavy rains, forcing President Barrow to deliver a brief address. He thanked the people of Kiang for their support and promised to inaugurate the 200km road network later this month.
Continue Reading >>The Gambia-Senegal Boundary Commission has held a preparatory meeting in Njaw, CRR, ahead of a joint sensitisation campaign on the boundary densification exercise.General Saikou Seckan of the Gambia Armed Forces said the boundary was demarcated in 1904 and stressed that the sensitisation team’s role is to explain the exercise and allay concerns among border communities.Colonel Gueye of the Senegalese Territorial Army said the exercise aims to clarify the existing boundary. He assured residents that it is not intended to take away their land, but said landowners must comply with the laws of the country where their land falls.Lt Col. Lamin Krubally, Farafenni Commanding Officer, stressed the exercise's importance to national security, while Dawda Fatty, Director of Lands and Survey, highlighted the strong family ties between communities on both sides.The local chief welcomed the initiative, saying “The farms are older than the boundaries.”The joint sensitisation campaign launches Friday at Njaw CRR. Delegates from both The Gambia and Senegal and international agencies are expected to attend.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow has pledged an additional D50 million to empower Gambian women and strengthen their participation in national socio-economic development.President Barrow made the pledge in Kaur and Kalen Jawbeh during his ongoing Meet the People Tour in Central River Region North. He also disclosed that the government has awarded contracts for the second and final phase to provide electricity to the remaining communities in the region.The President was speaking at a joint meeting in Kaur for Lower Saloum, Upper Saloum and Nianija Districts.The meeting opened with statements from community leaders who thanked the President for unprecedented developments in roads, electricity, health and education. While acknowledging the gains, they appealed for expanded access to electricity and clean water, and support for farmers affected by poor rainfall this season.They renewed their loyalty to President Barrow and pledged to ensure a landslide victory for the NPP-led Grand Alliance in the December polls.The National Assembly Member for Lower Saloum, Honourable Sainey Jawara, commended the developments but appealed for fast-tracking of electricity to cover the remaining communities in CRR North.Minister of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs, Honourable Hamat N.K. Bah, described Kaur as a former major commercial hub whose economy declined due to decades of neglect. He said President Barrow will rebuild the town through a new port and modern road network.Minister Bah also warned Chiefs and Alkalolu to desist from allocating state lands to foreign individuals for agricultural purposes without approval from his Ministry. He said the government has approved a new Land Policy that protects state lands from encroachment, and warned that violators will face consequences.In his address, President Barrow thanked the people of Nianija, Lower and Upper Saloum for the massive turnout, describing it as a vote of confidence in his leadership.On women’s empowerment, he said the additional D50 million for women farmers and entrepreneurs will bring his government’s total allocation to women to D100 million.On energy, President Barrow said his government has achieved unprecedented expansion in the last nine years, with contracts already signed for the remaining unelectrified communities in CRR. The announcement was greeted with applause.From Kaur, the entourage proceeded to Kalen Jawbeh in Sami Constituency, where thousands staged a massive reception.Community leaders in Sami and Niani also praised the government for life-changing projects, noting that 63 villages in the area now have electricity. They, however, cited insecurity, robbery and cattle rustling as major challenges and appealed for a PIU post to address the problem.At the same meeting, Kuntaur Area Council Chairman, Saihou Jawara, presented eight motorbikes to community health workers to ease mobility and improve rural healthcare delivery.Responding, President Barrow said 204 villages have been connected to the grid in the last nine years, compared to only 40 villages in 52 years under the Jawara and Jammeh administrations. He said the remaining eight villages will soon be connected and urged patience.On security, President Barrow assured that the government takes the matter seriously and will deploy a PIU unit to fight robbery and cattle rustling in border areas.He appealed for massive support in the December election, saying the vote will determine whether Gambians choose progress or a return to underdevelopment. He cautioned supporters against overconfidence and urged hard work to secure a resounding victory for the Grand Alliance.He thanked the people of Sami and Niani for the huge turnout despite the late hour, expressing hope that the support will translate into votes.
Continue Reading >>The Gambia and Senegal on Friday launched a sensitisation campaign to educate border communities on the ongoing border densification exercise and dispel misinformation and disinformation surrounding the process.Speaking at a community gathering in Njaw, Central River Region, National Security Adviser and Deputy Chairman of The Gambia’s Boundary Commission, Abubacar Jeng, said President Adama Barrow is paying close attention to the exercise and considers it a matter of national importance.Mr Jeng clarified that the exercise does not involve the demarcation of a new border, but rather the densification of the existing boundary to make it more visible and clearly identifiable.He acknowledged that the international boundary cuts across communities on both sides and assured residents that the exercise would not result in the loss of land belonging to individuals or communities.“The border is not being demarcated; it is being densified to make it clearer,” Mr Jeng said, while expressing confidence that communities on both sides would continue to coexist peacefully, as they have done for generations.(Abubacar Jeng, National Security Adviser and Deputy Chairman of The Gambia’s Boundary Commission)Chairman of Senegal’s Boundary Commission, General Saihou Camara, echoed the call for calm and peaceful coexistence. He urged residents not to take the law into their own hands should disputes or concerns arise during the exercise.General Camara advised community members to seek assistance from the appropriate authorities in either country to resolve any issues that may emerge.Representing GIZ, Dr Abdul highlighted the importance of clearly defining and identifying international boundaries. He explained that the densification exercise would improve clarity along the border and help reduce the potential for cross-border disputes and conflicts.The Prefect of Kaffrine, Madam Fall, also underscored the longstanding peaceful relations between communities on both sides of the border. She encouraged residents to preserve the spirit of cooperation and peaceful coexistence that has characterised their relationship over the years.The Chief of Upper Saloum, Alhaji Demba Sey, and his Senegalese counterpart spoke of the deep historical, cultural and social ties that bind communities in the border areas.Other speakers included alkalos and youth representatives from both The Gambia and Senegal, who also emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and understanding among border communities.The gathering marked the beginning of a wider sensitisation campaign aimed at reassuring communities about the objectives of the densification exercise while addressing concerns and combating misinformation and disinformation.Authorities from both countries urged residents to rely on verified information from the Boundary Commissions and relevant government authorities throughout the exercise.
Continue Reading >>Sal, Cape Verde, October 4, 2026 - The Gambia Volleyball Federation (GVBF) has been honoured by the African Volleyball Confederation (CAVB) among 18 national federations recognised for their performances, achievements and continued contribution to the growth and development of volleyball in Africa.The recognition was presented during the CAVB Ordinary Congress in Sal, Cabo Verde, with the award received on behalf of The Gambia by Bai Dodou Jallow, President of the Gambia Volleyball Federation.The continental recognition acknowledges the efforts of national federations in strengthening competitions, developing volleyball programmes, expanding participation and creating greater opportunities for athletes, coaches, officials and other stakeholders.For Gambian volleyball, the honour represents another important milestone in the country’s continued development and participation in the sport at continental level.The latest recognition also carries historical significance. In 2015, The Gambia received a similar continental recognition from CAVB, highlighting the country’s contribution to the development of volleyball.More than a decade later, the latest honour reflects the continued work of the Gambia Volleyball Federation to develop and promote the sport through national competitions, athlete development, regional and continental participation, and increased opportunities for Gambian volleyball players.The Gambia has continued to make its presence felt in both indoor and beach volleyball, with its teams and athletes competing in various CAVB competitions.The recognition is also a tribute to the collective efforts of athletes, coaches, clubs, referees, technical officials, administrators, volunteers and partners who continue to contribute to the growth of volleyball in The Gambia.For President Bai Dodou Jallow and the GVBF, the honour provides renewed motivation to build on the progress achieved and continue working towards a stronger and more competitive volleyball system.From the recognition received in 2015 to the latest honour in 2026, the Gambia Volleyball Federation continues to be recognised as part of the broader development of African volleyball.The latest CAVB recognition is therefore both a celebration of past efforts and an encouragement to keep investing in the future of Gambian volleyball.
Continue Reading >>The Scorpions of The Gambia exceeded their wildest dreams to overturn a 2-0 deficit to secure an unlikely, stunning 4-2 win against the Black Stars of Ghana in front of a stunned home crowd at the Accra Sports Stadium in round two of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. It appears as if it was going to be a long afternoon for coach Johnathan McKinstry and his side when Ghana took a 2-0 lead after 33 minutes with a penalty from Ernest Nuamah and a free kick from Felix Afena-Gyan.But how the Scorpions turned the game on its head to grab maximum points is one thing that left Ghana in total bewilderment. A rally with a converted penalty by Muhammed Badamosi, a close-range finish by captain Omar Colley and a brace from substitute Ebrima Colley were enough to send disbelief across the footballing family in Ghana and earned The Gambia a second straight win.But this wasn't a difference in class and maturity. This could only be credited to one thing - tactical discipline. TACTICAL MASTERCLASS BY JOHNNY MCKINSTRY The Northern Irish man deployed a five-man defensive approach with Omar Colley, Yaya Bojang, Alagie Saine, Joseph Ceesay, and Ibou Touray, all accustomed defenders starting.That wasn't packing the bus. It was a game plan. The approach worked against Somalia, where the Scorpions recorded a 2-1 victory, but this time around, it brought along an even bigger result.The approach prevented Ghana from scoring in open play. If not for the penalty and a free kick that looked more like a gift from goalkeeper Babucarr Gaye, who wrongly positioned the wall and himself, the score was going to be even more embarrassing for the home side.Even with the five defenders, Ibou Touray and Joseph Ceesay were largely seen joining the attack when the Scorpions were in possession, with the combative Portsmouth man Ebou Adams covering the gaps at the back when necessary. That helped the team draw themselves back on level terms at 2-2 before half-time. The biggest turning point came in the second half when the Scorpions tactician added left-back Sainey Sanyang and midfielders Mouhamadou Drammeh and Ebrima Colley and forward Adama Bojang in the positions of midfielders Abubakr Barry, Suleiman Camara, Abdoulie Sanyang and striker Mohammed Badamosi. Not only did Ebrima Colley score two goals, but the way they helped the team maintain a clear balance between defence and attack and how Sainey, Mouhamadou and Ebrima combined in the lead-up to the 4th goal, justified how right those tactical switches were. All through the game, the Scorpions were tactically mature, disciplined, and they stayed true to their approach from start to finish. FLURRY OF GOALS Knowing fully well that losing to the Scorpions would be considered unforgivable, the Black Stars started the show in the 27th minute when Ernest Nuamah converted from the penalty spot following a foul by Badamosi. 3 minutes later, Felix Afena-Gyan curled home a free kick from outside the 18-yard box.At the moment, Ghanaians, from supporters to the Football Association President, the belief was that it was an afternoon of redemption. But the way the Scorpions rallied was astonishing. Mohamed Badamosi reduced the deficit from the spot in the 37th minute following a foul on Abdoulie Sanyang by captain Gedeon Mensah in the box.With 3 minutes to halftime, the Scorpions were levelled. Captain Omar Colley hit home a flick from fellow centre-back Yaya Bojang following a long throw from left-back Ibou Touray in the 42nd minute. After the break, the Black Stars were desperate for a win, attacking the Scorpions at every presentable chance. They were caught unawares at the back twice when the Scorpions switched gear to hit them on a quick break. In the 68th minute, Mohamed Badamosi flicks a long looping ball in the path of substitute Ebrima Colley, who hit past Benjamin Asare in the Ghana goalpost. And on the stroke of regulation time, the Scorpions hit the final nail into the Ghanaian coffin as Ebrima Colley headed home a Sainey Sanyang's cross into an unguarded net. The result sent a total shockwave and uproar among the home crowd, who angrily called for the resignation of the Portuguese boss Carlos Queiroz and Kurt Okraku, the President of the Ghana Football Association. A WORTHLESS DIFFERENCE The difference between the Black Stars and the Scorpions is like a gap between a beginner and a professional. The Black Stars, who are currently ranked 65th in the world, have played in five World Cups and reached the quarter-finals in 2010. They managed four Africa Cup of Nations titles in their 24 appearances in the competition and also won seven WAFU titles. These achievements will make anyone believe that Ghana should not be any match for the Scorpions. This difference was rendered worthless as they were humbled before their home crowd. The Scorpions of The Gambia are ranked 116th globally and have only appeared in the AFCON twice, in 2021 and 2023, finishing in the 2021 quarter-finals as their best feat without ever playing in the World Cup. But the recent form of the Scorpions is unmatched by that of Ghana. In 12 consecutive games, the Scorpions won 7, drew 1, and lost 4, as opposed to Ghana, who have won just one, lost 9 and drawn 2 in 12 straight outings now. This simply shows how football is played and won not by size, achievements, or history, but on form and perhaps a bit of luck. WHAT NEXT? This victory puts the Scorpions in pole position to qualify for the 2027 AFCON after they missed out on the last edition. If they can grab six points out of a possible 12 in their remaining four games, qualification will certainly be secured.For the Black Stars, their destiny squarely lies in their own hands. They must grab a minimum of 10 points out of a possible 12 in their next four games to stand even the slightest of chances.For now, they will first need to diagnose their problem and start working on it; perhaps a possible return of Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo, and Jordan Ayew in the next window could be a possible solution. That, though, remains to be seen!
Continue Reading >>
