The head of the ECOWAS Election Observer Mission to the recently held National Assembly election Hon. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, praised the conduct of the polls calling them “peaceful and credible.”Dr. Chambas was at the State House to brief His Excellency, President Adama Barrow of his mission’s observation and findings during the elections. Dr. Chambas described The Gambia as a good example to the rest of the sub-region in the conduct of elections, stating; “The Gambia should be proud of itself”, for maintaining a reputation as a peaceful people, a peaceful country who have delivered a peaceful and credible election.
Continue Reading >>H.E President Adama Barrow’s Congratulatory Remarks on the National Assembly Elections Fellow Gambians,After weeks of intense political activities in the country, I am happy to congratulate all Gambians on the successful and peaceful conclusion of the National Assembly elections held on 9th April 2022. Exercising their rights in what was clearly very keenly contested legislative elections, Gambians made their choice of National Assembly representatives from an unprecedented number of candidates from political parties to Independent candidates. On behalf of my government and family, and on my own behalf, I express deep gratitude to all the peace-loving Gambians who contributed to this historic achievement. With warm sentiments, I also congratulate the Independent Electoral Commission, the security services, political parties, Observers, the media and all other stakeholders for the roles they played throughout the electoral process. The election of diverse political party representatives and independent candidates from different backgrounds is an indication of a vibrant democracy. Yet again, Gambians have fulfilled a vital constitutional mandate in an amicable manner, thus demonstrating that our democracy is thriving. It was another test of the credibility and viability of our institutions and the mechanisms and processes we are strongly determined to safeguard and strengthen. To our credit, as Gambians, we have got over the event with remarkable success. Fellow Gambians, during the political campaigns leading to the 2021 Presidential election and the recently concluded National Assembly elections, the citizens of this nation loudly expressed and showed their passion for efficient public services that would improve their lives and livelihoods. They have demonstrated the desire for stability, sustained good governance, and infrastructural development to boost the performance of all sectors. It is clear that our people wish to maintain an environment that is peaceful, stable, and secure enough for all citizens, which is one of the top priorities of my government. These aspirations can be achieved much faster if we work as a united force. In doing so, we need to be service-oriented and committed to the betterment of the people, strive to advance and strengthen our democracy, and observe the principles of peace and justice for all. These are essential elements for good governance and progress, which we cannot ignore. Ladies and gentlemen, based on party affiliation and trust for some independent candidates, Gambians have duly elected their representatives; none-the-less, we expect all the successful candidates to work together as a legislative body to promote and serve the national interest. At this point, I must congratulate all the successful candidates on their victories, and call on the remaining contestants to join forces with us and work in the best interest of the nation. The fact that you were eligible to contest is an achievement in itself. So, bravo to everyone! In a democracy, we must embrace diversity, and it is significant that, as a country, the Legislature works independently; however, it has to be in partnership with the Executive and the Judiciary to ensure that, jointly, we serve and fulfil the development aspirations of our citizens, within a just environment. Ladies and gentlemen, I expect all Gambians and non-Gambians alike to realise that these are challenging times. This is a period when global politics and instability continue to impact negatively on our local context. We must be ready, therefore, to take up the challenge of working harder, re-dedicating ourselves to duty, and committing enough time and resources to serve the nation, both in the public and private sectors. We are blessed with a youthful population and should explore and utilise its potential to the fullest. I will not conclude without emphasising the need for us to continue to nurture our democracy, protect all rights, and respect the freedom of association and speech, as required by law. As mature and cultured people, we must realise that, once elections end, we are duty-bound to unite and serve the country as one people. Whenever we exercise our political rights and compete in national elections, we do so as actors with different viewpoints, and not as enemies. It is now time to put behind us the divisive politics and hate speeches that seem to divide the nation. This is the time to re-energise ourselves for nation building so that every citizen becomes a winner. To reassure everyone, regardless of the results of the elections, the affairs of the entire country and the welfare of every citizen and resident here will remain central in my concerns and focus. Hand in hand, let us all move on.I pray for the continued peace, progress, prosperity, and security of our people. Long live The Gambia! I thank you for your attention.
Continue Reading >>Gambians have voted in a new legislature, thirty-three of them for the first time. NPP won 18 seats, UDP 15, NRP 4, PDOIS 2, and APRC 2. An unprecedented 12 seats are independent candidates. GDC, GMC, CA, and NUP did not win any seats. Out of the 19 women candidates, only three were elected
Continue Reading >>Gambians are voting to elect national assembly members of the 6th legislature five months after the Presidential elections. An unprecedented Two hundred and forty-six candidates are vying for fifty-three seats in the National Assembly. Eighty of them are independent candidates. Polls opened at 8 am and are expected to close at 5 pm. Reports across the country indicate that voting is peaceful but voter turnout is low compared to the presidential elections. President Adama Cast his ballot at the McCarthy Square in the Banjul Central constituency. He called on eligible Gambians to turn up to the polling stations and vote peacefully.
Continue Reading >>The Independent Electoral Commission on Wednesday conducted a briefing for election observer groups accredited to observe the National Assembly elections on Saturday. The briefing held in Bijilo discussed the modalities and preparedness of the election officials to conduct a hitch-free election. In his statement, the Chairman of IEC Alieu Momarr Njai, gave a rundown of the nomination process recording 251 candidates contesting the April 9 polls. Chairman Njie further informed the observers that measures are in place to ensure smooth, free, and credible elections. The Deputy inspector general of police Inspector Momodou Sowe gave an analysis of the current security.
Continue Reading >>The Center for Policy, Research, and Strategic Studies CEPRASS in partnership with the national endowment for democracy on Wednesday convened a day's opinion sharing session. The study on the country’s post-presidential election was shared with journalists, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders. The forum was held in Bakau. Speaking at the gathering CEPRASS executive director Lamin Dampha gave a background of the project and said opinion polls are useful in making decisions on critical issues. The president of Gambia Press Union Muhammed MS Bah dilated on the importance of media in the dissemination of results on opinion polls.The polls can be accessed on the CEPRASS website: www.ceprass.gm
Continue Reading >>The IEC Regional Office in Banjul has received nominations bids from seven aspiring candidates for the April 9th National Assembly elections. Three aspirants from PDOIS, three from UDP and one from PPP have successfully submitted nomination papers to the IEC IN Banjul on Thursday. They include Ousman Sillah of PDOIS for Banjul North who is seeking a second term in office. Baboucarr Mboge and Mansour Foon of PDOIS are vying for the parliamentary seats in Banjul Central and South respectively. Muhammed Ndow of the PPP is also contesting for the Banjul Central seat. Thursday's nominations process ended with the United Democratic Party (UDP). The party has chosen Momodou Cherno Jallow for Banjul Central, Momodou Lamin B. Bah for Banjul North and Yaya Kuyateh for Banjul South. Similar engagements are also taking place in all the other administrative regions.
Continue Reading >>The Independent Electoral Commission officials at Brikama have rejected the nomination of Momodou sabally for the Busumbala constituency. This is the first time an aspiring candidate’s nomination is rejected on the spot in the run-up to the 2022 parliamentary elections. The IEC rejected Sabally’s nomination citing section 90 (1) (e) of Gambia’s 1997 Constitution. It states that “A person found guilty of abuse of office, corruption, or any offense connected with public elections by a court or anyone found by a report of a commission of inquiry to be incompetent to hold public office because of having acquired assets unlawfully or defrauded the State would also be disqualified”It could be recalled that the Janneh Commission indicted Mr. Sabally for aiding and abetting the theft of D14, 686,500 in relation to Carnegie Mineral accounts.
Continue Reading >>Five National People's Party and one independent aspiring candidate filed nomination bids on day five of nominations in Kanifing Municipality. NPP's Amadou S. Leigh is vying for the Serrekunda constituency, Assan Dampha for Bakau and a former parliamentarian for LK Sabiji Saikou Marong who is seeking re-election submitted necessary documents to IEC officials in Serrekunda. The fifth day of nominations also saw NPP aspiring candidates Fatoumatta K. Jawara of Talinding, Mustapha Lowe of Serrekunda West constituency, and one independent candidate, Ansu Camara of Serrekunda East had their credentials accepted by the Independent Electoral Commission's returning officers in Serrekunda. Another independent candidate Ibrahim Savage was asked to return on Friday after failing to present some major documents.The documents are pending scrutiny after which IEC's Joseph Colley says the aspirants will be given their acceptance letter by Thursday if all their documents are intact after the verification.Speaking to the press after submitting their credentials, all the candidates say they will win in April parliamentary elections.
Continue Reading >>The Leader of the Gambia Moral Congress (GMC) Mai Ahmed Fatty has presented his nomination papers to the Independent Electoral Commission in Basse Mansajang in URR. Mr. Fatty is contesting for the Wuli West National Assembly seat. He told waiting journalists that he is the choice of the people. Ebrima Conteh of the GMC also presented his documents for Wuli East Constituency. Mr. Conteh said was contesting because the people of his constituency were neglected for so many years. He promised to bring development to his constituency if given the chance. Meanwhile, IEC officials handed over an acceptance receipt to Hon Alhagie H.Sowe of The Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC).
Continue Reading >>Only one aspiring candidate from the lower Saloum Constituency appeared before election officials in the central river region on nomination day one. The All people's Party's Ebou K. Gaye arrived at the regional Independent electoral office to present his credentials for the April 6th National assembly elections. Gaye's nomination papers were quickly accepted, allowing IEC officials to vet his credentials pending a public scrutiny. APRC and ANRD party were also expected to present Nomination bids but the two parties didn't file any candidate in the Central River Region.After presenting his documents, Gaye told waiting journalists that he is the right candidate to represent Lower Saloum Constituency. He claimed to have the will and capacity needed for the job.
Continue Reading >>The President His Excellency Adama Barrow held a meeting in Chamoi Bunda, Wuli West, as part of his six-day tour to lay the foundation stones for World Bank-funded road projects. This meeting was an opportunity for the Gambian leader to highlight his government's commitment to infrastructural development as a key driver of growth. The project will fund the construction of a 5.4 km road from Chamoi Bunda to Limbambulu.Beneficiary communities from the wider Wuli West district attended the meeting and celebrated the launch of this important project.During the meeting, both the Alkalo of Chamoi Bunda and the Chief of Wuli West praised the President and the World Bank for their efforts to transform rural communities and empower farmers.Kebba Sillah, a respected community leader, described the road project as transformative. He emphasised that it offers farming communities better access to markets and services. Mr Sillah also commended the government and the Ministry of Agriculture for providing farmers with subsidies, fertiliser, and seeds, adding that these feeder roads are essential for large-scale agricultural production.The regional chairman of the NPP, Alhaji Bubu Drammeh, also acknowledged President Barrow for his investments in agriculture, which have resulted in increased yields. He credited these improvements to the President's personal commitment and progressive leadership. The regional chairman urged voters to register for the upcoming election and to support the ruling party.District youth representatives Ousman Bah and Aja Fatou Saho praised the project as a significant opportunity for young people to engage in agriculture, facilitating employment and sustainable socio-economic development. They remarked that President Barrow’s leadership has initiated numerous programs to empower youth, and they encouraged their peers to embrace these opportunities in agriculture to foster growth and development.Honourable Famara Sabally, the National Assembly Member for Wuli West, noted that these feeder roads had been neglected for decades, which had caused hardships for rural farmers trying to access markets. He commended the President for this bold initiative that promises to improve the lives of farmers.Regional Governor Samba Bah echoed these sentiments, discussing the benefits the roads will bring to remote areas where access to farmlands and markets has long been a challenge. The Governor urged Gambians to remain united and peaceful to accelerate national development.Sulayman Sumareh, the Director General of the National Roads Authority, revealed that the roads would be built to standards designed to last 25 years. He stated that the authority would closely supervise the work to ensure contractors and consultants meet their deadlines.President Barrow stated that the World Bank-funded road projects address significant infrastructure gaps in rural areas, providing farmers with new opportunities for access to markets. He emphasised that this initiative will connect all communities to major highways, ending decades of isolation and marginalisation that have hindered rural development.The President took the opportunity to reassure local farmers that his government will continue to prioritise infrastructural development as a driver of growth. He pledged that the next five years will see more groundbreaking projects.He called on all Gambians to embrace and support his development agenda, which aims to deliver quality road projects that connect communities across the country.The President also remarked that he would not be distracted by critics who seek to undermine his government and create confusion among Gambians. He urged his supporters to register en masse for the upcoming election, arguing that the outcome will shape the nation's future for the next five years.He expressed gratitude to the people of Wuli West for their attendance, describing it as a vote of confidence in his leadership, which is results-driven and focused on development.
Continue Reading >>The President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, officially launched The Diplomat, a luxury mixed-use real estate development designed to transform urban living in The Gambia. The ceremony took place in Bakau on Thursday evening, drawing government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and key stakeholders from the real estate sector. This event marks a significant milestone in The Gambia’s efforts toward modern infrastructure and economic growth.The project represents a partnership between ACE Communications Executive, a Gambian-owned business, and Swami India. It is a bold initiative designed to reshape the real estate landscape in The Gambia.Standing nine stories tall, The Diplomat is one of the tallest and most modern buildings in the country, featuring state-of-the-art architecture and design to support corporate life, commerce, and innovation.For Fatim Badjie, the CEO of ACE, this moment was emotional and filled with pride, as she described it as the culmination of nine years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. She emphasised that The Diplomat emerged from a desire to enhance The Gambia's real estate sector by providing a modern edifice that meets the needs of a contemporary nation.Ms Badjie commended the President for fostering a conducive environment for private sector investment, asserting that The Diplomat will promote socio-economic development, enhance competition, and create jobs.Khimji Pindoria, the CEO of Swami India, described The Diplomat as one of the most iconic developments in the sub-region, reflecting President Barrow's vision for a modern, highly developed country.In his address, President Adama Barrow stated that the launch of The Diplomat signifies a new chapter in The Gambia's development journey, characterised by strong confidence, a clear vision, and tangible results. He praised the project's concept, highlighting its alignment with the country's aspirations.The President encouraged the private sector to seize the favourable business environment to invest in the economy, assuring them that his government would continue to support them as partners in development.The Diplomat is named in honour of veteran Gambian diplomat Ambassador Dembo Badjie, recognised for his invaluable contribution to strengthening relations between The Gambia and India. The nine-story twin towers comprise 92 residential and commercial apartments, a gymnasium, and IT hubs designed to support a modern urban lifestyle. Plans are also in place to construct a modern clinic and a water treatment plant to provide essential services to consumers.
Continue Reading >>The President Barrow-sponsored Ramadan Football Championship came to an end on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at the Serrekunda West Mini Stadium. The final match featured an exciting showdown between Star Boys F.C. and Babun Fatty.After the match ended in a goalless draw, Star Boys F.C. triumphed in the penalty shootout, earning a cash prize of D75,000. Babun Fatty, as the runner-up, received D50,000, while the Tigers of Kotu secured third place and were awarded D15,000. President Barrow attended the final, underscoring the significance of youth empowerment through sports. The tournament showcased 40 participating teams and highlighted the government's commitment to grassroots development and community engagement.The colourful final attracted a large audience of football enthusiasts and high-ranking government officials.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow, accompanied by a high-powered delegation including cabinet ministers, World Bank officials, and other senior government representatives, is embarking on a six-day tour across various regions to lay the foundation stones for over 200 km of feeder roads. These projects, jointly funded by the government and the World Bank with a budget of $25 million, aim to empower rural communities by improving their access to markets.During the tour, President Barrow is expected to lay foundation stones for road projects in selected communities located in the North Bank, Central River, Upper River, and West Coast Regions. He was seen off at the Banjul ferry terminal by Vice President Jallow, several cabinet ministers, and security service chiefs.At the terminal, the President was greeted by a guard of honour from the Gambia Navy before boarding the new Barra ferry to his first destination, Kerr Jatta in the Lower Nuimi District. There, he laid the first stone for a 7.3 km road connecting the communities of Kerr Jatta, Ndofan, and Kerr Walli to the main highway.He also laid the foundation stone for a 9 km road extending from Fass Njaga Choi to Ndungu Kebbeh. Additionally, two other stone-laying ceremonies took place for nearly 13 km of roads in Kerr Selen and Kuntaya, linking several communities in Jokadu. The President then moved on to the Baddibu region, where similar ceremonies were held in Makka Farafenni, Illiasa, and Yallal Tankonjala. Here, he laid the foundation stones for 22 km of road that will connect 12 communities to the main roads.The contracts for these projects have been awarded to Chino Gam, a Chinese construction company, and the projects are expected to take two years to complete. President Barrow described these initiatives as unprecedented and emphasised his government's commitment to providing infrastructural development to enhance socio-economic growth.He stated that these projects will also help diversify road infrastructure developments to reach hard-to-access areas and create opportunities for local farmers. Minister of Agriculture Dr Demba Sabally praised the partnership between the government and the World Bank, asserting that this multi-million dollar project will have a positive impact on agriculture. Momodou Sabally, a presidential adviser, called the project a game-changer in The Gambia's quest for food security and sustainability, noting that farmers will now have easier access to markets.Funding for these projects is provided by the World Bank through a grant under the Gambia Inclusive and Resilient Agricultural Value Chain Development Project.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow delivered his State of the Nation address to lawmakers at the National Assembly. The address highlighted his government's achievements over the past year across various sectors, including the economy, social services, infrastructure, governance, reforms, and foreign policy. It also addressed challenges and opportunities for the future. This year's address emphasised a significant improvement in living standards, security, peace, and overall development.The event is often characterised by pomp and pageantry, featuring a guard of honour from the armed forces to welcome the head of state upon arrival. Following a rare moment of interaction with National Assembly members, there is an official photo shoot before everyone is escorted to the chambers. Here, members of the cabinet, judiciary, heads of government departments and agencies, security services chiefs, and the public are present for the address.The Speaker of the Assembly, Hon. Fabakary Tombong Jatta, called the proceedings to order, allowing the President to present a detailed overview of his government's accomplishments over the past 12 months, discuss challenges, and offer solutions.President Barrow provided an overall positive assessment of his government’s performance. He shared that the economy has shown "remarkable resilience," growing nearly 6% while keeping inflation at 6.6%. This growth was largely driven by agriculture, construction, trade, and tourism.The President noted progress in infrastructure development, including the construction of hundreds of kilometres of roads across the country. These achievements, he stated, underscore his government's commitment to national development, highlighting that modern road, air, and maritime infrastructure are the "foundation and vehicle for sustainable socio-economic development."Regarding energy, the President announced that his government is on track to achieve universal electricity access with the commissioning of projects nationwide. He emphasised that this milestone makes The Gambia the first country in the subregion to attain such an achievement. He assured citizens that his government would continue to provide funding to Nawec (National Water and Electricity Company) and partner with stakeholders to ensure accessibility, reliability, and sustainability. "We have allocated three hundred and ninety-seven million dalasis (GMD 397 million) in the 2026 Budget to expand electricity services to the remaining unelectrified communities," he stated.The President also highlighted positive developments in the agricultural sector, which accounts for 22% of GDP, as it drives economic growth and empowers local communities. He noted an increase in food production last year, attributed largely to government support and investments in the sector. Additionally, there has been a significant expansion in access to clean drinking water, which has improved the lives and livelihoods of Gambians.In terms of peace and security, the President declared, "The Gambia is the safest and most peaceful country in West Africa," reflecting the growing confidence in national institutions and the unwavering commitment of security services to maintaining peace, security, and stability."The Gambia is now ranked the safest country in West Africa and the fourth safest in Africa, according to Business Insider Africa. This achievement demonstrates the increasing confidence in our national institutions and the steadfast dedication of our security services to safeguarding the country and its people," he asserted.The Gambian leader encouraged citizens to reflect on these achievements and to recommit themselves to the ideals and values of the Republic as represented in the recovery-focused National Development Plan, YIRIWA.He acknowledged the existing challenges facing the country, particularly in areas such as the economy, climate change, and the unpredictable global environment. However, he reassured the public that his government will continue to address these challenges by working closely with all stakeholders and partners.The National Assembly will convene next week to discuss the contents of the President's address.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow commissioned a new hybrid ferry on Monday during a ceremony held in Barra. The ferry was jointly funded by the government and the African Development Bank to improve transportation at one of The Gambia's busiest ferry crossings, linking the capital city, Banjul, to the North Bank Region.Named the Barra ferry, it has a larger passenger and cargo capacity than the existing fleet.The ultra-modern hybrid vessel arrived in The Gambia from Damen Shipyard in the Netherlands, where it was completed after 14 months of construction.The commissioning of this ferry is being celebrated as a significant milestone in the government's efforts to address the ongoing challenges at this vital crossing point in The Gambia.During the ceremony at the Barra garage, attended by senior government officials and members of the community, the Alkalo of Barra, Alhaji Babu Faye, expressed gratitude to the president for fulfilling his promise. He noted that Barra is strategically located as a gateway to the sub-region, and the provision of reliable, efficient, and modern ferry services will boost trade and facilitate the free movement of people.The Alkalo further urged ferry operators and management to ensure the safe and sustainable use of the ferry to effectively serve the public.This sentiment was echoed by the Chief of Lower Nuimi, George Sonko, who commended the President for taking decisive actions to address the challenges associated with ferry crossings. He also called on the ferry service to prioritise customer satisfaction by improving its services.The Governor of the North Bank Region, Lamin Saidykhan, spoke about the indispensable role of the Banjul-Barra ferry crossing in the socio-economic development of the country. He added that “this brand new green ferry will finally address the constraints associated with crossing.”The Regional Director of the African Development Bank, Dr Lamin Barrow, praised the long-standing partnership between the Bank and The Gambia, assuring that the African Development Bank will continue to support the government's efforts in enhancing sustainable socio-economic and infrastructural development.The Managing Director of the Gambia Ports Authority, Ousman Jobarteh, revealed that the Barra ferry was designed to meet the highest standards of shipbuilding and naval architecture. He added that the vessel is one of five components of the existing grant provided by the African Development Bank to The Gambia.President H.E. Adama Barrow stated that his government is committed to building robust transport infrastructure to foster socio-economic growth, describing the Banjul-Barra corridor as an essential pathway for The Gambia's sustained growth and development.The President lamented the persistent transportation challenges associated with this corridor in the past but expressed optimism that this new ferry will significantly improve services and facilitate transport.He thanked the African Development Bank for its support and assured that his government will continue to prioritise the Banjul-Barra route by providing a second ferry to augment the current fleet. President Barrow also promised to construct a bridge connecting Banjul and Barra in the near future.Finally, the President encouraged the ferry services to ensure the safe and sustainable use of their fleet to guarantee longevity and value for money.Accompanied by officials and other dignitaries, the President boarded the ferry for its first voyage to Banjul, where he cut the ribbon to mark the symbolic commencement of services.
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