It was on January 12th 2022 that Africa welcomed a tiny country to the Africa cup of nations. This was a boast long overdue for a country that spent over half a century fighting for such a moment. Historically, Gambia's national anthem was sung for the first time in the AFCON when they stood up in the lineup in their opening group game against Mauritania.
Emotional moment for the players and supporters some of whom were shedding tears as they sang along the anthem. Perhaps the Gambia's most-watched game in history, from the President of the Republic down under, many sat before television sets to watch a Scorpion maiden AFCON appearance with immense joy.
The wait for such a moment is now history. Scorpions played five games, won three, drew one, lost one and exited at the quarterfinals, a truly historic achievement for a nation making its first AFCON appearance. For so long the game’s greatest underachievers at the grandest stage, could now consider themselves as overachievers. And whatever way, history will forever remember The Gambia for their achievements in the first AFCON berth.
Remarkable start:
Given the pre-tournament COVID cases and the poor preparations as all their preparatory test matches were all cancelled during their pre-tournament training camp, the Gambia came into the AFCON in almost total disarray and morale was at an all-time low.
What better way, then, to give the team and the nation a much-needed boost than to pick up the victory. The Gambia marked their presence in the continental showpiece with an emphatic one-nil win over Mauritania as Abdoulie Jallow became the first Gambian player to score in the AFCON when he fired home an astonishing strike. This was the turning point for a once demoralised side.
Boring but justified strategy
After reaching the round of 16, Gambia's coach Tom Saintfiet may claim his boring tactical approaches to the games, a justified strategy, despite the criticisms, hence the Belgian stayed resolute on his approaches.
Under Tom, gone are the days when the Gambia played dazzling football, adored by the games true romantics, only to realise that it leads to nothing but failed campaigns. For Tom, results mean everything and winning ugly is not considered a shame.
For the Belgian, focus has become the new magic word in the Gambia's camp.
Focus on the approach, focus on the opponents, focus on your own performance, focus on the ultimate goal (safety first), focus on the forthcoming game.
Since his appointment in 2018, Tom told his disciples that they were on a mission. The journeyman was clear about what he wanted from his players. In return, he gave the players his full confidence, even when they were out of form as in the case of players without clubs but still included in the squad.
Tom was not willing to sell out his defensive approach for any critic, he applied it and earned a one-all draw against Mali in the second game. Even before the final group games were played, the Gambia was already confirmed to have qualified for the Round of 16. Yet, Tom appeared as if he doesn't have it his way, he put his defensive tactics into practice against Tunisia and earned a one-nil win to finish level on points with Mali who top the group on goal difference. This was perhaps the most shocking moment for Tunisia, losing or finishing behind not only debutants but one of the 12 lowest-ranked nations. The Scorpions sails through to the Round of 16.
The unthinkable unfolds
Progressing beyond the group phase was not just surprising but shocking to the continent, and beating Guinea in the round of 16 was unthinkable, but it unfolds before the sights of the footballing world and caught even the most ardent of support by surprise.
That was the Gambia's sweetest victory not because it came at the Round of 16, but because it was the first time we saw the Gambia attacked with verve and precision. At halftime, the possession was 50 - 50 and in the second half, the Gambia gained 2% ahead of their opponents (52 - 48). The brilliant lone goal scored by Bologna's forward Musa Barrow was just a glimpse of the Gambia's attacking prowess, but the Belgian will never revert to playing attacking football as he had his journey ended at the next stage.
End of the journey
Tom and his tactics were all at sea against the host nation Cameroon in the quarterfinals, the Gambia were largely bystanders, uncharacteristically pedestrian from start to finish all as a result of poor tactical approach.
Tom decided to start with two natural half-backs at either side of the defence, added to that, two centre backs and two deep-lying midfielders. This was purely a safety formation.
The inexplicable tactics gave Cameroon players the space to move in a triangle in a way that had the Gambia in confusion and greatly reduced their chance of launching counterattacks. At halftime, it was all square and Tom have it his way as he said his game plan was 'not to concede in the first half.'
Tom was already bewildered by Cameroon's high pressing game, he has no idea as to how to contain the host in the second half.
After surviving a string of early Cameroonian incursions, the Gambia had their lines breached when Karl Toko Ekambia nodded home on the 50th minutes, before adding another one later in the game to draw an end to the Gambia's fairytale campaign.
For an underachieving coach like Tom, this was the greatest achievement of his career but many criticised the Gambia for turning the beautiful game on its head.
Former Nigeria captain Jay-Jay Okocha said this about the Gambia:
"In terms of the level of play, the Gambia has been the worst team in AFCON, I hope they try to play than sit and defend."
"It was only about Cameroon, you almost ask how did the Gambia make the quarterfinals with this performance."
Senegal and Liverpool forward Sadio Mané also said to the Gambia team "have the courage to play, don't be scared in football there is no big team or small team, it is 11 men vs 11 men."
For players so accustomed to beautiful football, playing ugly is always a pain in the heart. Who will blame Okocha and Mané for the comments!
The Positives & Negatives
So long there's so much to brag about in this AFCON, there are equally loop holes as well. But first, the players put in so much effort to get the Gambia on the good side of history. Gambia's name has hit another height. This brought along reputation and respect for the country's players at the continental stage.
A country under the heels of heated political campaign and elections were nothing but divided. Gambia's participation and performance in the AFCON create that much-needed reunion.
In the business sector, it created markets. Thousands of Gambia's replica jerseys were sold out, added to, banners and flags. Recent reports revealed that the Gambia's shirts sold out during the AFCON period is as many times more than the past three decades.
And how about the social media users, they used the videos and pictures of the Scorpions to increase their page likes, views and comments. Anytime a picture of the Scorpions is posted, it attracts greater attention.
The players as well benefited during the campaign, as small as it may look, each player received a bonus that amounts to D700, 000 and the players are still promised ten thousand dollars each. All combined, that's a great earning for average earners like the Scorpions players within a short period.
The unfortunates nearly overshadowed the Scorpions historic campaign with the whole drama starting with the 'Steve saga'. The country's most popular player going into the AFCON fall out with the coach and decided to abandon the team and returned to his club in the UAE. Even when both the federation and the player himself tried to sit on the information, sources within the camp revealed that the player left due to frustrations as he was unused in the country's first two games.
As if that was not enough talking point, the team got stranded in Cameroon for a day after their exit. This triggered widespread condemnation as some players took to social media to lash at the Federation for being "selfish". "All they are saying is not true, they are only here for their pockets," one of the players said. But, the National Coordinating Committee say the delay was a result of a breach of contract by the Airline company.
Some players could not stand it as they pay for their tickets to return to their various clubs.
This was a major setback, as the planned 'hero's welcome' the thousands of Gambians were willing to accord the team was all cancelled. Instead of returning as heroes, the team returned as any ordinary passenger.
Now that the AFCON is done and dusted, the onus lies on the Federation, the Government and the players to ensure the team qualify for the 2023 AFCON and the 2026 World Cup. Can they achieve that?.
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His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, the Vice President, presided over the launch of the Food Safety and Quality Authority's (FSQA) Strategic Plan for 2026-2030 at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo. This strategic plan outlines the Authority's vision, strategic priorities, and key interventions aimed at strengthening food safety and quality systems, enhancing regulatory effectiveness, and safeguarding public health in The Gambia over the medium term.The landmark event gathered key stakeholders from the government, development partners, and the private sector, highlighting the government's commitment to ensuring that citizens have broad access to quality and safe food.Momodou Bah, the Director General of FSQA, explained that this initiative aims to meet the required standards while the FSQA continues to develop national regulations. “We have an Act from 2011, regulations started in 2021, a policy was established in 2024, and now we have developed a strategic plan in 2025. This progression sharpens our focus to ensure we are fulfilling the mandates of the government,” Bah stated.This marks the beginning of a transformative journey, as food safety regulations become increasingly important in ensuring the well-being of every individual.Dr Amadou Sowe, the FSQA Board Chair, emphasised that the successful implementation of the plan will require strong government support. “This ambition will demand sustained investment, strong political will, and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders. Strategic plans don’t implement themselves; they require leadership, discipline, resources, and collective ownership,” Dr Sowe remarked.Immaculada Roca i Cortés, the European Union Ambassador to The Gambia, reiterated the EU's commitment to supporting FSQA. She expressed satisfaction in contributing to a stronger regulatory framework, a more effective inspection and control system, and enhancing technical capabilities.Reports indicate that foodborne illnesses cause an estimated 137,000 deaths annually in Africa, with productivity losses exceeding $20 billion.Public Service Minister Baboucarr Bouy assured FSQA of their support as policymakers while urging all stakeholders to back this initiative. “I urge all stakeholders to rally behind FSQA and support the effective implementation of this Strategic Plan. By doing so, we will not only protect the health of our people but also unlock opportunities for Gambian products to thrive in competitive markets,” Minister Bouy said.In his launch statement, Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow described the FSQA Strategic Plan as the result of rigorous analysis, broad consultation, and honest self-reflection. “It is a plan that is both nationally rooted and internationally aligned,” he remarked.Vice President Jallow characterised the moment as one of “genuine national significance,” stating, “The food we eat is not merely a matter of personal choice; it is a matter of public health, economic security, and national dignity.”An estimated GMD 188.1 million is required for the implementation of the strategic plan over the next five years. H.E. Mohammed B.S. Jallow called on the Ministry of Finance, development partners, and the private sector to recognise food safety as “not a cost, but an investment in public health, economic competitiveness, and The Gambia's reputation as a reliable source of safe, high-quality products in regional and international markets.”The new strategic plan commits to strengthening FSQA's institutional and operational systems, prioritising financial sustainability and resource mobilisation, risk assessment, inspection, surveillance, and enforcement.Additionally, it aims to modernise laboratory services and digital infrastructure, while deepening stakeholder engagement and public awareness.Strategic plans are not just documents; they serve as critical guides for institutions. Their clarity and effectiveness dictate how well these institutions strive to fulfil their purpose.Now that the plan has been launched, the focus will shift to its implementation, which is anticipated to enhance The Gambia’s international recognition in global food markets.
In a series of meetings at the State House, President H.E. Adama Barrow hosted Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayokor Botchwey and members of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday.Secretary-General Botchwey was accompanied by Serign Modou Njie, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. After they met with the President, Botchwey stated that her visit was part of her tour of Commonwealth member states aimed at "strengthening cooperation" in areas of mutual interest.H.E President Adama Barrow with the Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayokor Botchwey. [PC: State House]She assured that the Commonwealth will continue to engage with The Gambia to support development, capacity building, and democracy. Additionally, she formally invited the President to the Commonwealth Heads of State and Government summit in Antigua later in November.In a separate meeting, the members of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce updated the President on their activities and the challenges they face. Naffie Barry, the Managing Director of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce, described the meeting as very productive, noting that they received strong reassurances of support from the Gambian leader.Photo session of members of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce with H.E Adama Barrow [PC: State House]She expressed gratitude to the President for the audience and conveyed hope that the meeting would lead to positive outcomes for Gambian women.
A flurry of activity took place as several associations paid a courtesy call on His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, the Vice President of The Republic of The Gambia, to introduce their groups and explore potential areas for cooperation.The first to arrive were members of the 'I Am Gambian Association,' a movement dedicated to fostering unity and national pride in the pursuit of sustainable national development.Famara Manka, the President of the association, explained the focus of their visit after a closed-door discussion with Vice President Jallow. He stated that the association, founded last year, is committed to expanding its reach across the country to achieve its goals. "I Am Gambian Association is dedicated to bringing Gambians together. We aim to overlook our tribal, religious, and cultural differences and embrace the belief of 'I am a Gambian,'" he added.(Members of the 'I Am Gambian Association. PC: OVP)Shortly after noon, the Vice President welcomed members of the Gambia Autism Support and Advocacy Network, who visited to highlight their work and seek stronger collaboration with the government.Following some preliminary formalities, the group engaged in closed-door talks with Vice President Jallow and his top officials. They discussed issues ranging from raising awareness to inclusion and support for individuals with autism and their families.Abdou-Majid Jallow, the National Coordinator of the Gambia Autism Support and Advocacy Network, described the purpose of their visit. "We aim to involve the Vice President in raising awareness and advocating for people living with autism in this country, as there is still a significant amount of stigma and misconception surrounding it," he said.(Members of the Gambia Autism Support and Advocacy Network. PC: OVP)The day's courtesy calls concluded with a meeting of the Gambia Student Nurses Association.After engaging with Vice President Jallow and his senior officials, Maha Sowe, the president of the Gambia Student Nurses Association, outlined their discussions, noting the Vice President's strong support for their cause."The Vice President is considerate and genuinely wants to help Gambian students, especially student nurses. He assured us that his office would see what assistance they could provide."(Members of the Gambia Student Nurses Association. PC: OVP)These organisations are hopeful that they can rely on the Office of the Vice President for stronger government support moving forward.
Officials from the University of The Gambia paid a courtesy call on the President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, at State House on Tuesday. The delegation was led by the Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology and comprised the Vice Chancellor Professor Herbert Robinson, the Chairman of the Governing Council Prof Momodou Mustapha Fanneh and the Registrar Bobo Baldeh. They were at the State House to update the President, who is also the Chancellor of the University on the upcoming convocation ceremony at the Faraba Banta campus, where over 1,600 students are expected to graduate after fulfilling all requirements in their different fields of study. Speaking to reporters after they met with President Barrow, Professor Herbert Robinson, the Vice Chancellor, disclosed that discussions were good and productive as they had agreed on all the details of the much-anticipated convocation ceremony later this weekend.Professor Herbert Robinson, the Vice Chancellor of the University of The Gambia (pic: State House)“Over 1,600 students will graduate this year from the 9 schools of the University, among them the first Doctoral graduates and graduates from the new school of Dentistry,” Professor Robinson added.The Vice Chancellor further expressed gratitude to the president and the Higher Education Minister for the support to the University, noting that the UTG has “seen massive investment and modernisation in infrastructure over the years” attributing this to President Barrow's “personal commitment” to the higher education sector.
The Vice President, His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow, has presided over the opening ceremony of the first quarter 2026 Permanent Secretaries’ Retreat at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo. The convergence which brought together permanent secretaries to look at development trajectories of the government agencies, is convened under the auspices of the Ministry of Public Service, Administrative Reforms, Policy Coordination and Delivery, and the Office of the Secretary to Cabinet and Head of the Civil Service. Permanent secretaries might not be seen frequently on the front line, but they are the technicians pulling the strings behind the woodwork to ensure efficiency at various government ministries.This four-day retreat will enable them to reflect on the progress made in implementing the Recovery Focused National Development Plan 2023-2027 and how they can continue to work together to speed up implementation. Presiding over the event, the Vice President, Mohammed B.S Jallow, said achieving sustainable development requires collaboration, affirming the government's resolve in policy guidance to realise the goals of the national development plan. “Sustainable development cannot be achieved by the government alone. It requires the collective effort and synergy of all stakeholders—the public sector, private sector, civil society, academia, and citizens alike.”“The Government of The Gambia will continue to provide clear policy direction, sound governance frameworks, and accountable leadership,” he stated.With geopolitical tension disturbing many economies across developing countries, these technicians will be compelled to accelerate the implementation of flagship projects under the Recovery-Focused National Development Plan with Vice President Mohammed B.S Jallow assuring the full backing of the government. “Let me reaffirm that the Government, under the leadership of His Excellency President Adama Barrow, remains firmly committed to strengthening the civil service and modernising public service delivery to meet the evolving needs of our people,” VP Jallow said. “The significant enhancement of civil service remuneration—by up to 130 per cent—reflects our dedication to improving welfare, boosting morale, and enhancing productivity within the public sector,” he added. Baboucar Bouy, the Minister for Public Service, urged permanent secretaries to help their ministries work to meet the growing needs of the citizenry. “The theme: “Delivering the National Development Plan: Unified Actions for Tangible Results,” speaks directly to our collective responsibility. It highlights a fundamental truth, and that is, fragmentation only undermines progress, while unity of purpose drives progress,” the Public Service Minister said.On the move to attain the Recovery-Focused National Development Plan, Alieu Njie, the Secretary to the Cabinet and Head of the Civil Service, called for the prioritisation of issues that can positively benefit the citizens. “As we move closer to the end of the National Development Plan cycle and towards the next electoral period. The window for delivering results is narrowing. This creates urgency. The work we do over the coming months will shape public confidence in government performance.”“We must prioritise what matters most. What can be delivered within the time frame and what will have the greatest impact on our citizens. The responsibility before us is clear. The success of the Recovery Focused National Development Plan will not be judged by the design but by the results,” Njie said. Hopes are high that by the time these technicians return for the second quarter retreat, they will be able to look back and count their achievements in the attainment of the national development plan 2023-2027.
The Vice President His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow has on behalf of the President H.E Adama Barrow presided over the launch of The Gambia's National Misinformation and Disinformation Response Centre, a landmark AI-powered government platform for detecting and responding to Misinformation.” It is established under the Ministry of Information and funded by ECOWAS. This move by the Gambia government is meant to equip citizens with critical tools needed to navigate an increasingly complex information landscape. The centre has been described as the first of its kind in West Africa. Vice President, H.E Mohammed B.S Jallow who delivered the launch statement on behalf of the President H.E Adama Barrow, said the government chooses not to control or censor but to ensure clarity and truth within the information ecosystem. (Vice President, H.E Mohammed B.S Jallow)“We know what it means to live under a government that controls information as a weapon. We know what it costs us. President Barrow's government has chosen a different path: not control, but clarity. Not censorship, but truth,” He said.The world is at a critical crossroads with the power to spread information enabling new forms of autonomy, and the potential to abuse those powers continues to rise daily.False narratives continue to circulate across social and mainstream media platforms with information weaponised to manipulate public opinion, undermine institutions, and at times, “incite division in societies” that have long been united. Vice President Jallow said, the scrutiny of the centre will cut across. “Let me be clear on that last point. No public figure, no institution, and no arm of government is above the scrutiny of this Centre.”“If a video circulates claiming to show a minister saying something he did not say, the NMDRC will investigate it. If a statement is falsely attributed to the President, the NMDRC will address it. That is not a courtesy we extend to the public. It is a commitment we make to them,” VP Jallow added. His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow further commended ECOWAS for the financial support that made this dream a reality, saying it is only fitting that the regional body invests in work that will serve the sub-region. Dr Omar Alieu Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, commended President Barrow's government for the foresight, describing Misinformation as a “key driver of insecurity” that he said continues to “undermine trust in governments.”Amran Gaye, the man behind the AI-infrastructure, conducted a visual demonstration before the audience, showcasing how the tool can be deployed to verify Misinformation and Disinformation, saying, it is built on three pillars to “detect, verify and respond” to fake information. This national disinformation and misinformation response centre puts the Gambia on a robust footing to combat fake news, ensuring leverage for the public and press to verify information.The turnout at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre was a clear justification of how the government, civil society, the international partners and the citizenry cherish this landmark AI-powered technology platform built by Dundal Systems, a Gambian technology company.
The Government of The Gambia has officially commissioned the National Misinformation and Disinformation Response Centre, the first of its kind in the West African sub-region. The landmark initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, was launched at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo. The centre is designed to detect, analyse and respond to false information, harmful narratives and digital manipulation, while promoting credible and fact-based communication.Cordu L. Jabang, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Information, described the centre as a “strategic national asset” that she said will “strengthen public trust, protect democratic institutions and improve information integrity across the country.”She thanked development partners and stakeholders for supporting the “government’s vision” to build a safer digital information environment.Amran Gaye, the Chief Executive Officer and Lead Architect of Dundal Systems - A Gambian technology company, delivered a presentation and live demonstration of the platform’s capabilities. (From left: Cordu L. Jabang, the Permanent Secretary - Ministry of Information, Amran Gaye - CEO and Lead Architect of Dundal Systems, Dr Ismaila Ceesay - Minister for Information, Aisha Davies - Director, Department of Information Services.)He showcased advanced Artificial Intelligence tools that can monitor online conversations, identify misinformation trends in real time, verify content and support rapid response mechanisms. Gaye said the technology has been “tailored to address local realities while meeting international standards.”Dr Omar Alieu Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, whose institution funded the initiative, hailed the launch as a “major milestone” for regional cooperation.He noted that misinformation and disinformation remain growing threats to “peace, democracy and security in West Africa,” adding that The Gambia has “set an example” for the region. Dr Touray reaffirmed ECOWAS's commitment to supporting member states in strengthening “digital resilience and strategic communication.”Dr Ismaila Ceesay, the Minister for Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, said the centre demonstrates the government’s commitment to “transparency, accountability and responsible communication.”He stated that the facility will serve as a hub for “research, early warning, media literacy and coordinated responses” to false narratives capable of “undermining national unity and development.” Dr Ceesay urged citizens, journalists and institutions to work together in promoting “truth and combating harmful misinformation.”The commissioning ceremony brought together government officials, diplomats, civil society representatives, media practitioners and development partners.With the launch of the centre, The Gambia becomes a regional pioneer in institutional efforts to confront the rising challenge of misinformation and disinformation in the digital age.
In a historic moment for the people of Kiang, President H.E Adama Barrow, on Saturday, officially inaugurated the 91km road linking dozens of communities in Kiang. The road project, funded at D1.2 billion, is the first of its kind in Kiang and marks a turning point for the community, which has grappled with decades of isolation and exclusion. This project is expected to open up the region to the outside world, attract investment and enhance economic opportunities.The inauguration ceremony was held at Jiffarong and attracted thousands of people who mobbed the President's motorcade as it entered the village and escorted it to the grounds amidst great fanfare. The President, flanked by the first lady, Governor Sidi Lamin Bah and other officials, then cut the ribbons at Sankandi, marking the official inauguration of the 91km Kiang Roads Project.Speaking at the ceremony, community leaders described the project as a “historic milestone that has transformed Kiang West.” The Alkalo of Jifarong Babanding Kinteh, the Chief of Kiang West, the youth and women's representatives at the constituency and regional levels, Fabou Sanneh and Jalika Janneh, all extended profound gratitude to President Barrow for fulfilling his promises to the people of Kiang. They recounted those difficult days when residents struggled to travel on the road, the hardships they encountered and the delays they faced, describing these as “challenging moments in the history of the area.”The speakers reassured the President that they will mobilise their constituents to “massively vote for him in December as a gesture of gratitude” for these groundbreaking developments.Sidi Lamin Bah, the Governor of the Lower River Region, underscored President Barrow's commitment to infrastructural development, noting that the Kiang West road project “will lift residents out of poverty.”The Governor appealed to the people of Kiang to “embrace the government” and “renounce the opposition,” arguing that decades of opposition support have not “brought any tangible benefits for the region.”Sulayman Sumareh, the Director General of the National Roads Authority, disclosed that this road project has been designed and constructed to “meet international standards of quality and durability.” The NRA boss said this road project brings “immense benefits” for the people as it traverses through all 33 villages in the area.The inauguration ceremony also witnessed the defection of 140 opposition supporters into the NPP. Omar Drammeh, speaking on behalf of the defectors, said they were motivated by President Barrow's “development track record, which has transformed the country.” He promised a new chapter of political realignment in Kiang as more people embrace the ruling party. Delivering his inauguration statement, President Barrow said his government is guided by the principle of “inclusive development” to ensure access to basic infrastructure and services.He noted that Kiang West has long been “neglected by previous governments” which he said “makes life difficult for residents.” This broad project, the President added, marks a turning point as it will enhance access and create unlimited opportunities.President Barrow described the new road as a “permanent symbol of transformational vision, determination and unity,” reassuring that his government will “continue to invest in road construction” with plans to undertake another 700km of road in the future. These projects, the President said are all funded from the domestic budget, with over “D18.5 billion” already spent on road projects since 2017.The President finally appealed to the people of Kiang to “support his government” to benefit from more development projects in the future.The foundation for the construction of this important road was laid in 2021, in what has become one of the most ambitious projects undertaken by the Barrow administration which places infrastructural development as a “key development priority.”This road serves as a lifeline for the people of Kiang West linking 33 villages across this vast region, who depend on it for access to other areas.The people of Kiang rejoiced over what they believed was a new chapter in their lives, marked by decades of isolation and exclusion, which made basic travel for residents a nightmare.
His Excellency President Adama Barrow received two important visitors at the State House in Banjul on Friday. He first met with Eugene Young, the Charge d'Affaires of the United States Embassy in The Gambia, followed by a meeting with H.E. Dr Mamadou Tangara, the African Union Special Representative for Mali and the Sahel.During the meeting with the U.S. Charge d'Affaires, they discussed various bilateral issues between the United States and The Gambia. H.E Adama Barrow President of the Republic of The Gambia Eugene Young, the Charge d'Affaires of the United States Embassy in The Gambia. (PC: State House)In his audience with Dr Tangara, the conversation focused on the ongoing dialogue and consultation between ECOWAS and the Association of Sahel States.After meeting with President Barrow, Charge d'Affaires Young spoke to GRTS, sharing that the discussions covered several topics relevant to President Trump's global priorities, the situation of Gambians living illegally in the United States, and U.S. investments in The Gambia. The dialogue also addressed concerns regarding peace and security, particularly conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and Libya.Separately, Dr Mamadou Tangara, the African Union Special Representative for the Sahel, led a delegation to the State House. Dr Tangara, second from left with his development members. (PC: State House)Speaking to GRTS, Dr Tangara said that their meeting is part of an ongoing dialogue and consultation between ECOWAS and the Association of Sahel States aimed at addressing regional challenges. He expressed hope that the discussions would strengthen the foundations laid by previous engagements, foster trust and confidence, and enable the sub-region to effectively tackle its challenges and promote peace and stability.
The President His Excellency Adama Barrow on Wednesday met with the Manjago “Alkalolu” from the Kombo South District of the West Coast Region. The village heads represented the Manjago communities, who have expressed concerns about illegal encroachments on their ancestral land by neighbouring groups, leading to ongoing disputes and threats of violence.After the meeting, David Cardoman Gomez, the Alkalo of Faalah village shared that the Manjago communities are worried about these developments but are committed to addressing the issue through dialogue rather than confrontation, as they are law-abiding citizens. Gomez emphasised that the Manjago people are third-generation Gambians, having inherited their land from their great-grandfathers who arrived in the country long before British colonial rule. He expressed hope that the President and his government would work to resolve the land disputes affecting the Manjago community and return the land to its rightful owners, as outlined in the constitution and land policy.Yusupha Gomez, another community leader, conveyed sincere gratitude to President Barrow for hearing their concerns. He noted that through dialogue with all parties involved, an amicable solution could be reached regarding the land disputes. However, he advised the Manjago community to legally document their land to protect it from encroachments by speculators and neighbouring communities.Mr Gomez described President Barrow as tolerant, accommodating, and open to dialogue, expressing hope that the meeting would lead to a positive outcome, as they had presented a comprehensive report to him.
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