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President Barrow promises to construct more roads in the Upper river region

President Adama Barrow has promised to construct more roads and bring electricity to communities in Tumana, kantora, Basse and Jimara constituencies by 2025. This he said will cover over 95 percent of the communities in the area.  He made the promise at meetings in Chamoi in the Tumana District and his home town of Makamang Kunda in Jimara in response to numerous requests for more roads and electricity. President Barrow returned Gratitude to the people for renewing his mandate as president. He highlighted numerous developments made by his administration in education, health, agriculture and  infrastructure amongst other sectors of the economy. President Barrow added that over 45 communities in Tumana and over 30 communities in kantora  as well as dozens of others in Basse and Jimara constituencies will be electrified by 2025.  The Gambian Leader called on the people to embrace agriculture particularly rice production for  food and nutrition security. This he said is the best way to ensure food self sufficiency amid global economic crisis. President Barrow disclosed that his government had secured funds to invest in agricultural inputs and the purchase of groundnuts. He assured farmers that there will no credit buying of their nuts this season. In addition to the distribution of cereal and vegetable seeds his government he added will construct several gardens in some communities in the Upper River Region.The president also handed over a cheque for over 1.7  million dalasi to the women earmarked for 18 women groups in Tumana and Kantora as part of the government funded women enterprise fund meant to improve women's economic status. As he embarked on his nationwide tour the President held his first ever meeting in his home town of Makamang kunda where was received by a large crowd. At various meetings, community leaders, youth and women representatives took turns to return gratitude to the President and his government for what they described as unprecedented socio-economic and infrastructural development in their respective areas. This they say include the construction of roads, bridges, schools, health facilities and improved access to electricity in rural communities. They however appealed for more feeder roads, water projects, agricultural inputs, youth empowerment and improve security among other developments.The Minister of Fisheries and water Resources Musa Drammeh disclosed that government is set to construct over twenty-eight boreholes in Upper River Region by the end of 2023. The Minister of Agriculture Demba Sabally said government will soon start the construction of a dairy plant in Basse, and small ruminants markets and abattoirs in major settlements across the Upper River Region. The Minister of Lands and Regional Government Sheriff Abba Sanyang called on Gambians to nurture peace stability and Social cohesion. Minister Sanyang warned against the abuse of natural resources such as land and forests and called on loacal authorities to ensure their protection. The tour continues with meetings in wuli and other parts of Central River Region.

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President Barrow holds meeting at Makkah Farafenni.

President Adama Barrow says his government will construct the road at Makkah Farafenni. The President made these remarks at well attended rally at Makkah Farafenni as part of his countrywide tour. He also promised to bring electricity in the area and reiterated that the harsh economic situation is as a result of global crisis. President Barrow said he will continue to work for the Gambian people even after leaving office. He told farmers that the groundnut trade season this year would be a pleasant one as the buying price has been increased by four thousand dalasis. He therefore urged farmers to sell their nuts to the Gambia government.He reminded farmers that government had subsidised fertilisers to make it easy for farmers. The President disclosed that development partners such as the world Bank would provide funds for the purchase of fertiliser for the coming farming season. He therefore encouraged farmers to increase rice cultivation to enable the country to feed itself. President Barrow also said his government is taking over the just concluded Tekki fee project and said the aim is to create employment for young people.He decried the lack of interest in vocational training institutes as unfortunate. He sighted the President's International Award training centre in Kerewan where he said the centre is struggling to attract students.

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President Barrow holds meeting at Ndugu kebbeh

President Adama Barrow has said that the harsh economic conditions in the country were as a result of global economic crisis. The President made these remarks at meeting at Ndugu kebbeh as he embark on a nationwide tour. He said his government is working hard in trying to alleviate the situation. The President said his government has procured food items which were now being sold at a reduced price. He expressed gratitude to the people who recognised his government's efforts in developing the country. He told farmers that the buying price of groundnuts has been increased this year and urged farmers to sell their nuts to the Gambia. The president told the gathering that his visit was not a political campaign but to dialogue with the people.  

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THE RISE OF MODEST FASHION: MODEST MODELING AGENCY STAGES FIRST ISLAMIC FASHION SHOW The quest to Give modesty a viable space and representation on the runway gains strength in the

 Gambia as fashion houses move to embrace Islamic style trends.Part of the youth wave driving style trends, Modest fashion is tremendously evolving in the local fashion industry, with the first ever runway event showcasing latest hijabi designs featuring Islamic dress modes and modest fashion enthusiasts.Pioneered by young Fatima Muloshi and her modest modeling agency specialized in promoting hijabi fashion to diversify the runaway.Making it a cultural appeal and unifying platform, organisers aim to broaden Islam fashion to dispel stereotypes.The exquisite display of unique fashion pieces gives the modest niche show infinite power in the growing fashion market.The rare stage affair was graced by modest fashion influencers like Fatoumatta Ceesay, widely called Fatisha, uses online platforms to showcase her love for modest fashion.The runway is also creating a spotlight for modest apparel designers to exhibit their brands, giving them exposure to a new economic opportunity.For these young ladies, blending a little fashion in modest clothing is an opportunity to reclaim feminity. The trend is hugely altering stereotypical understanding of Muslim apparels and showpiece for all identities.Events like this underscore the new dawn in fashion industry embracing diversity and despite the hitches, the modeling agency is persistent in putting Islamic fashion on the spotlight

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President Adama Barrow embarks on 21 day Nationwide tour

President Adama Barrow will on Monday set off for nationwide tour across the country. The twenty one day tour will give the President the opportunity to meet with locals and discuss issues affecting national development. President Barrow will hold hold rallys and visit numerous project sites to assess progress and challenges. 

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President Barrow launches National Employment Policy Action Plan

His Excellency, President Adama Barrow, on Friday presided over the closure of the Tekki Fii Programme and launching of the National Employment Policy and Action Plan, 2022-2026.The President said, “The two events have a bearing on each other, with the Policy providing long-term solutions to the challenges that the TEKKI FII intervention sought to address in the short term. In view of the positive results of the TEKKI FII Programme, it is with a deep sense of accomplishment and much optimism for the future that I join you here in person.There is no doubt that we have made important gains since 2017, and the results of the Tekki Fii Programme clearly manifest this. The stories and results associated with it are indeed inspiring. Among other things, they give us renewed hope and strengthen our faith in the youth and the nation”. 

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A FLOURISHING WATERMELON SEASON: MELON SALES BRING ROBUST PROFITS FOR FARMERS & VENDORS

It is that time of the year when almost everyone is grabbing a slice of watermelon as the fruit season  takes on a fresh bloom bringing record supplies of watermelon in markets across the country. Farmers are enjoying massive bumper yields with fruit harvests beating most crops as markets welcome fresh produce.Watermelon is a highly cultivated fruit worldwide, the green fruit with a delightfully  juicy taste, is from the Cucurbitaceae family, which produces nutrient loaded plants with many health benefits.As in other west African countries, watermelon is a profitable agribusiness venture in the Gambia, with businessmen and women cultivating massive productions delivering bumper supplies  across the metropolis where established selling points are churning significant profits everyday.After a successful harvest season, the fruit is transported from farms to wholesale and retail dealers in all parts of the city. The fruit however comes with a rather short life span that  makes it difficult to keep fresh produce for a long spell after harvesting. Without a ready made market, the fruit gets spoiled within a short duration but others have techniques to keep it fresh.Also making ends meet from the watermelon business are wheelbarrow watermelon sellers, trading juicy slices for pedestrian passerby’s.Watermelon Vendor Alfusainey Jallow has been in the watermelon business for years, he told us that the business has not been stable due to adverse variations of water prices. But attractive slices are still pulling customers despite the high price.After a grueling day at work, Omar Cham and his friends gather at Westfield to buy watermelon slices from Alfusainey to quench their craving and unwind.For most consumers its crucial to eat the fruit regularly before the season ends, as the chance to witness a bumper watermelon sales that happen once a year. On a hot afternoon, eating fruit with high water content keeps the body hydrated, according to experts watermelon is one of the fruits lowest in calories.The fruit is 92 percent water and rich in potassium and vitamins C, A, B and many other nutrients that blend to make the fruit a vital resource for beverages and smoothies.The Gambia’s shores are endowed with immense natural resources and watermelon makes significant yields despite environmental challenges.

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IEC sets dates for local government polls

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has announced that the commission elections of ward Councillors will take place in April, and polls for chairpersons/mayors will be held in May 2023.120 seats for ward councillors will be up for grabs while 8 local Government chairpersons/mayors positions will be available for contests. The announcement was made by the IEC chairman Alieu Momar Njie at the IEC-stakeholders consultative forum and the launch of activities leading to the local government elections at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre on Wednesday.He said the IEC is currently implementing the activities of the electoral cycle of 2021 to 2023, and the conduct of local Government elections is key to the electoral activities.He said legal requirements were reasons for the scheduling of different dates for the councillors and chairperson/mayoral elections.  

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Planned November 11th Protest postponed following mediations

The Coalition of Progressive Gambians (CoPG), has put on hold its planned protest over the high cost of living in the country. The protest was planned to take place on November 11th. The protest was called off following a two-day mediation effort by the Gambia supreme Islamic council and Peace Network. The parties agreed to hold dialogues over the issues that aggrieved the organisers of the protest.The Coalition of Progressive Gambians called for a protest demanding that the government stem the high cost of living, promote transparency, and provide better services for the people.The announcement of the truce was made at a press conference held at the headquarters of the Supreme Islamic Council in Kanifing. The parties agreed that the Government would dialogue with The Coalition of Progressive Gambians.They also agreed that The Gambia Supreme Islamic Council and Peace Network to continue leading the engagements between The Coalition of Progressive Gambians and the Government of The Gambia.The president of the Supreme Islamic Council, Sheikh Essa Darboe said the Islamic Council was concerned when it learned about the nationwide peaceful demonstration. He acknowledged that demonstration could be some kind of a solution, but suggested that alternative means such as dialogue can be used to solve the problem. The Chairman of the Coalition of Progressive Gambians, Seedy Cham disclosed that the authorities had engaged them in the planned protest and advocated for peace. He said the planned protest is temporarily put on hold because the government promised to address their demands. A representative of the Ministry of Information Ebrima Sankareh (not the government spokesperson) confirmed that the Government of the Gambia is a party to the agreement with the coalition of Progressive Gambians.

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President Barrow meets Traditional Chiefs

President Adama Barrow received Chiefs from across the regions in the country, who were at the Presidency, to report on their recent visit to Guinea Bissau to pay condolences on the demise of Paramount Chief Fernandes Augustus.Addressing the gathering, President Barrow commended the chiefs for taking the initiative to visit Guinea Bissau, describing it as a manifestation of diplomacy at its highest standard. He stated that such visits help straighten relations between countries, especially given the importance of local government in a country's administration. The President further noted that Gambia and Guinea have a long-standing relationship that both countries proudly cherish. President Barrow used the opportunity to highlight his administration's achievements in improving the lives and livelihood of all Gambians. He acknowledged the concerns about the high cost of living, which he said is a global problem that requires concerted efforts to improve. The President cited the steps his government has taken to subsidise fertilisers, fuel, and even the reduction of road tax to ease the burden on the people. Additionally, the President said he is in consultation with partners to subsidise the price of essential commodities, which is already translated in the price of oil, and rice will follow suit. He disclosed that steps had been taken to minimise rice importation by introducing a high-yield variety. Touching on democracy, the President said some Gambians have taken it for granted to instigate people against the government but was quick to add that Gambians should be law-abiding and promote peace and harmony. He concluded that his government is doing all it can to deliver the much-needed development and is not stopping until that goal is achieved. The Ministers of Finance, Justice, and Interior addressed the gathering on the developments at their various ministries. They expressed commitment to ensuring a stable economy, peace and security, justice, and a corruption-free Gambia.

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The Gambia agrees to allocate land for New US embassy

The Ministry of Justice has announced that the government of the Gambia had signed a memorandum of agreement with the Government of the United States of America for the acquisition of a property for the purpose of building a permanent state-of-the-art Embassy in The Gambia.A press release from the Ministry of Justice stated that the 25-acre property which is currently hosting the West Africa Livestock Innovation Centre (WALIC), was chosen following lengthy consultations.WALIC the release says will be relocated with new offices being built for the Centre at the cost of the United States government. The Bijilo Forest Park Visitor’s Centre, which is a concern to environmentalists, would also be relocated to a new location. The procedure of the property acquisition will follow due process and will comply with the Laws of The Gambia. The Gambia Government promised that the Bijilo Forest Park will not be affected in the course of this exercise. “A team of US technical experts including environmental experts will be working with Gambian experts over the next few years to ensure that all environmental and other concerns are sufficiently addressed”. The release added.  

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Police arrest Suspected Livestock Thieves

Two suspects were arrested for allegedly stealing livestock, including cattle, sheep, and goats. The Police Anti-crime unit made the arrests on Saturday following a tip-off from the public. The anti-crime unit also seized a believed to be used to transport the stolen animals. Police PRO Binta Njie-Jatta, in explaining how the suspected thieves were arrested urged livestock owners to audit their livestock and claim for missing animals from the police. The Police also revealed that slaughtered animals were found at a roast meat vendor in Latrikunda German. The vendor was said to have confessed to investigators that he bought the rams from the suspected thieves.  

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KABADA ROADS A MILESTONE: PRESIDENT BARROW PROMISES FULL ELECTRIFICATION OF LRR

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.

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GAMBIA-SENEGAL BOUNDARY SENSITISATION SET FOR FRIDAY

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.

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PRESIDENT BARROW PLEDGES ADDITIONAL D50M FOR WOMEN, ANNOUNCES FINAL PHASE OF CRR ELECTRIFICATION

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.

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Gambia, Senegal Launch Sensitisation Campaign on Border Densification Exercise

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. 

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CAVB Honours Gambia Volleyball Federation for Contribution to African Volleyball 

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.

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SCORPIONS OUTCLASS BLACK STARS IN TACTICAL MASTERCLASS

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! 

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