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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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Diabugu commissions new dump site

 Diabugu Xaabani, a community-based organisation, has commissioned a dump site costing 1.5 million Dalasis and a waste collection truck. The project is aimed at managing waste in the community. The Secretary General of the association Bahoreh Drammeh, said the objective of the organisation is to develop the community. He added that the community is prepared to initiate projects to complement government efforts. The technical director of the National Environment Agency Malick Bah, said the initiative eased waste management efforts by the local council. The director of planning at the Basse area council, Yaya Ceesay,  applauded the community for their foresight and said his council will collaborate with its stakeholders to provide logistics support for proper waste management in Diabugu.

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Reug Reug Prevails Over Jobis

Reug Reug defied the odds to beat Jobis in a nail-biting grand combat on Sunday 23rd October 2022 at the Serekunda West Mini Stadium. The fight was organised by WRG Promotion.Reug Reug of club Tallinding Japoo survived a barrage of punches from Jobis of club Ebo Town Mbolo and won the Hon. Babucarr Mansally flag. The bout began with an array of punches and the crowd loved it from the start. Reug Reug finally turns the contest on its head just under the three-minute mark, by spectacularly wrestling down Jobis to the ground. Meanwhile, Tapha Tine of club Mara needed a little over a minute in defeating Armeh of club Sanchaba Ham Sa Chossan to claim the flag named after Jam Promotion. Elsewhere, Boy Faal of Brikama Mbolo wrestle down Quence of club Bundung Kai Bakh to win the flag named after Queen Jose while Bebe Biram was declared the winner against Seri Boy of club Tallinding United. Bebe General of club Nema Saku Ham defeated Jel of club Banjul Japoo to win the flag named after MC Cham Junior and Pa Mamadi Jabour respectively.In freestyle (mbapat) bouts; Arsenal of club Sanchaba Ham Sa Chossan lost through a warning to Express, Tapha Tine of club Bara defeated Bebe Nyolo of club Yundum Mbolo, Yareh of club Serekunda Mbolo defeated Bebe Chart of Paradise Mbolo while Reug Reug of club Saloum Mbolo wrestles down Tassayaram of club Sukutankulu. The event attracted a record crowd including the Minister of Youth and Sports Hon. Bakay Y Badjie, his DPS Musa Mbye, KMC Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensuda, Hon. Babucarr Mansally, GWA President Serign Modou Faye.

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THIRD EXTRA-ORDINARY SESSION IN THE 2022 LEGISLATIVE YEAR - WEDNESDAY 26TH OCTOBER, 2022

The Office of the Clerk of the National Assembly wishes to inform the public that the National Assembly will convene its Third Extra-Ordinary Session in the 2022 Legislative Year on Wednesday 26th October 2022 at 10:00 am, to debate over the current National Public Health Emergency regarding the death of at least 69 innocent Gambian Children according to government records.Sitting commences at 10:00 am prompt in the National Assembly Chamber in Banjul. The public is reminded to comply with the standard dress code (traditional/formal suit) required and also to observe the silence rule during proceedings of the Assembly.

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Awa Gambia launches Debut Album

Thousands of people thronged the Penchami Hall on Saturday to witness the maiden album launching of Awa Jonga commonly called Awa Gambia. The new music sensation’s taking over album got high ratings from music enthusiasts, the media, and many Gambian musicians. The Sen Petite Galle contestant attracts a large following on social media since the release of “meuno ci mann dara”. The event was witnessed by high-profile individuals including the First Lady Madam Fatou Bah Barrow.

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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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Sweden Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Bilateral Relations with The Gambia

LONDON — 24 September 2026 - Sweden has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its longstanding friendship and bilateral cooperation with The Gambia, following a high-level courtesy visit to the Gambian Embassy in London.Ambassador Johan Friscell, Director for Africa and Head of Department at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Sweden, accompanied by Ms Annika Jacobson, paid a courtesy visit to Her Excellency Dr Fatou Bensouda, Non-Resident Ambassador of The Gambia to the Kingdom of Sweden.The visit allowed both sides to exchange views on the longstanding relationship between Sweden and The Gambia and to explore opportunities for further cooperation in areas of mutual interest.Ambassador Friscell conveyed fraternal greetings from the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs and reaffirmed Sweden’s interest in deepening cooperation with The Gambia. He expressed appreciation for the open, cordial, and constructive relationship between the two countries. He highlighted the importance of continued dialogue on issues including international law, migration, development, education, and tourism.The Ambassador emphasised the importance of diplomacy, friendship, and sustained engagement in addressing contemporary international challenges and strengthening cooperation between nations.In response, Ambassador Dr Fatou Bensouda reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to maintaining and further developing its bilateral friendship and cooperation with Sweden.She was accompanied at the meeting by Mr Suntou Touray, Deputy Head of Mission, and Mr Abu Bakr Jawara, First Secretary.Dr Bensouda recalled the historical contribution of Swedish visitors to the development of tourism in The Gambia, noting the important role Sweden and other Scandinavian countries played in helping to establish The Gambia as a destination for international tourism.The Gambian Ambassador further emphasised The Gambia’s readiness to remain a reliable partner to Sweden in areas of mutual interest, including international law, human rights, migration cooperation, education and scholarships, cultural exchanges, tourism, and government-to-government partnerships.She also highlighted the importance of strengthening connectivity between the two countries, including expanded maritime and air links. In this regard, she noted The Gambia’s interest in developing its river transportation network and improving ferry services as part of broader efforts to enhance mobility, trade, tourism, and economic activity. She further noted that there is a need to re-engage airlines to conduct direct flights to The Gambia from Sweden. Both sides expressed optimism about the future of Sweden - The Gambia relations and agreed on the importance of maintaining regular high-level engagement.The meeting concluded with discussions on a proposed visit by Swedish authorities to The Gambia, which would provide an opportunity for further discussions on trade, investment, development cooperation, tourism, and other areas of mutual interest.The engagement reflects the continued commitment of both countries to strengthening their longstanding friendship and expanding practical cooperation for the mutual benefit of the peoples of Sweden and The Gambia.  

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

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

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PRESIDENT BARROW REWARDS WAFU CHAMPIONS WITH D2M

President Adama Barrow has presented a cheque for two million Dalasi (D2,000,000) to the Gambia U-17 national team for winning the WAFU Zone A Championship in Senegal.The team was received at State House by the President, led by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, officials of the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) and the National Youth Council.The Baby Scorpions recently clinched the WAFU A title in a hotly contested tournament in Senegal, defeating the host nation in the final.Led by Head Coach Yaya Manneh, GFF President Kemo Ceesay and Minister Badjie, the delegation thanked President Barrow for his support before, during and after the tournament.In recognition of their feat, President Barrow rewarded the team with D2 million for making the nation proud.Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Minister Badjie described the team's performance as exceptional and commendable, adding that President Barrow was very proud of the boys.He noted that the government under President Barrow has invested heavily in sports, particularly football, which has enabled national teams to compete at the highest level.He reassured that the government will continue to provide the needed infrastructure for sports development and urged young Gambians to seize the opportunities to realise their potential.Head Coach Yaya Manneh also expressed profound gratitude to President Barrow and the Ministry of Youth and Sports for the gesture, noting the team has picked up valuable lessons and built a stronger mentality for future challenges.Team captain Samboujang Daffeh, speaking on behalf of the players, thanked the President for his support and investment in sports and promised the team will continue to make the country proud.President Barrow congratulated the team and urged them to replicate the same feat at the upcoming TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

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

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

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PRESIDENT BARROW INAUGURATES NEW MOSQUE IN GUNJUR

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

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