The Military Police wing of Gambia Armed Forces handed over 3 bags each containing 25 big bundles of Cannabis Sativa to narcotic officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency of Gambia (NDLEAG) at the Defense Headquarters in Banjul. The army also delivered a confiscated canoe, an outboard engine, and fuel that were impounded three months ago during one of their routine satellite patrol along the Halahin Bolong.
Continue Reading >>The independent electoral commission (IEC) has announced that two candidates for the upcoming parliamentary elections have withdrawn their candidature. Pa Lamin Sawo from Jehwang constituency and Abdoulie Barry from Kiang East constituency have had their request to withdraw accepted by the IEC. Both are independent candidates.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow begins a two-week tour of the country to thank Gambians for giving him another five-year mandate. The Gambian leader left on Saturday afternoon accompanied by cabinet ministers, NPP party executive members, and supporters. President Barrow was received on arrival at the North Bank region by Governor Lamin Saidykhan, senior regional government officials, traditional and religious leaders, and a cross-section of the community. The President is hoping that his meetings with local communities will galvanise support for his party's candidates, facing off against several other independents and the mainstream opposition political parties.
Continue Reading >>Law enforcement officers in the North Bank Region have benefitted from a training program on Iodine Deficiency Disorder. The training is aimed at boosting the 35 officers’ knowledge on the nutritional development of children. The program was orgainsed by the National Nutrition Agency (NaNA) in partnership with UNICEF. The Program Manager at NaNA Alieu Kujabi said that the awareness campaign would increase the understanding of the officers on the significance of iodized salt. Senior Program Officer at NaNA Musa Dahaba said 80% of the salt consumed in the country comes from outside and urged health officials to properly screen imported salt for iodine. The Director, Essau Health Region Modou Lamin Fofana said building the capacity of security personnel on IDD would address iodine deficiencies. The security personnel assured their commitment to work with officials of the Food Safety and Quality Assurance Authority (FSQA), and Public Health Officers at the border points to ensure that imported salt is iodized.
Continue Reading >>An initiative to train 400 migrant returnees on entrepreneurship was launched on Friday. The five-month-long program which was organised by National Enterprise Development Initiative (NEDI) in partnership with the International Organization for Migration, was funded by the European Union. The permanent secretary at the Ministry of Youth and Sports Saikou K. Sanyang said the training was in line with the government's reintegration program for the country’s youth. The General Manager NEDI, Abass Bah said the five months training would expose participants to diverse economic activities for self-employment opportunities. The Deputy Executive Director National Youth Council, Pa Malick Ceesay, and a representative of IOM Bala Musa Konateh both said that the training would economically empower migrant returnees for reintegration into society.
Continue Reading >>The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) recently organised a Political Dialogue on Elections and Human Rights ahead of the April 9th parliamentary election.Centred on issues such as upholding human rights alongside genuine elections, the convergence attracted members of political parties, civil society and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).The chairperson of NHRC described the dialogue as crucial in the achievement of free and fair elections. Emanuel Joof also frowned on The Gambia's recent election challenges including hate speech. Notwithstanding, the NHRC presidential election findings and recommendations underlined successes including coverage of all 2021 presidential candidates by GRTS. IEC chairman, Alieu Momar Njai, and the Interparty Committee's Dodou Jah deemed the dialogue instrumental. The session is expected to facilitate peaceful, free and fair elections.
Continue Reading >>The West Africa Competitive Program (WACOMP) is spearheading a new concept that would enhance an all-year production of onion. The initiative being implemented by United Purpose and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization has taken a new dimension by introducing an onion variety that thrives well in the rainy season. The project would increase competitiveness through enhanced quality and compliance along the onion value chain by providing market linkage between onion growers and potential buyers. Speaking to GRTS, the Horticulture Technical Expert for UNIDO, Malamin Drammeh said the project will also create cold storage facilities to reduce post-harvest losses in the onion value chain. Ngansa Touray, Project Manager of United Purpose was optimistic that the introduction of onion varieties for the rainy season will create options for farmers during the production planning process. Maimuna Jabang of Pirang Mansa Garden advised women to make the best use of the new technology to diversify agricultural production.
Continue Reading >>14 prominent Gambians Friday presented an advisory paper on the institutional framework for the coordination of planning and implementation of development plans in The Gambia to President Adama Barrow. The Group was formally launched by the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs late last year to provide information and guidance to the government on the planning and implementation of new development strategies. The group which comprises people with extensive experience in public service and international organizations was set up by the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Mambury Njai. The group’s chairman Alieu Momodou Ngum said it was tasked to look at planning processes in the Gambia and make recommendations for reforms to the government in order to maximally utilize resources. The recommendations are expected to help Government in its planning processes, especially at a time when it’s looking beyond the NDP.
Continue Reading >>The ambassador-designate of the United States of America H.E Sharon L. Cromer Friday presented her letters of credence to President Adama Barrow at State House. Ambassador Cromer replaces Richard Carl Paschall. The new ambassador pledged to further consolidate the excellent bilateral and multilateral relations between the United States and The Gambia, particularly in the areas of democracy and human rights. Ambassador Cromer has served in various capacities in a number of African countries including Senegal, Ghana, Nigeria, and Tanzania.
Continue Reading >>The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Thursday held a day-long training for the coaching staff and players of Dolphin Star Football Club at the NaNA conference hall in Bakau. The training was aimed at enhancing the knowledge of the coaches and players on the dangers of using illicit drugs. The Director of operations at NDLEA Alagie Ebrima Drammeh said in order for people to recover from Substance Use Disorder, there should be a willingness, commitment, and determination by the youths to stop the use of illicit drugs. He called on people to collaborate with the agency in the fight against drug abuse in local communities. The President of Dolphin Star Foot Club Momodou Mbenga said one of their core mandates is to engage youths in career development such as skills and professional courses to strengthen the capacity of their coaches and players.
Continue Reading >>The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) on Friday trained two hundred assistant returning officers ahead of the April 9th National Assembly elections.IEC chairman, Alieu Momar Njai said elections cannot be held without well trained personnel conversant with electoral issues.For the training and communications director of IEC, assistant returning officers have a burden on their soldiers. Pa Makan Khan stated that this is because these officers are to train back around six thousand polling staff across the country.As outlined by IEC officials, participants are expected to be equipped with the necessary skills and tools to fully roll out a successful election for The Gambia's 53 constituencies.
Continue Reading >>The Vice president of the Republic of the Gambia Dr Isatou Touray on Thursday received senior members of Gambia Committee on traditional harmful practices GAMCOTRAP in her office in Banjul. The delegation also comprises GAMCOTRAP's girls and boys for change ambassadors who were at Statehouse to pay gratitude to her excellency for her continued support to rights advocacy. The young advocates are the new crop of group enthusiast who are willing to challenge of breaking the societal and cultural barriers. In her statement Dr Isatou Touray commended the management of GAMCOTRAP for the new innovations joining the crusade to end harmful traditional practices against women and girls. She urged the young advocates to understand issues surrounding gender based violence and other harmful practices that affects fundamental freedoms and rights of women and girls. The Executive Director of GAMCOTRAP Princess A. Munahot said the young ambassadors initiative aims to serve as the next generation of advocates in the country. She explained the activities of the organisation in engaging grassroots education on women rights as well as the welfare of children in the country. The president of the young ambassadors Fatima John gave a biography of the Vice president in activism while commending her for support. The event was graced by presentation of certificates of appreciation to the Vice president and board members as well as staff of the organisation. Meanwhile, stakeholders in migration management comprising the ministries of foreign affairs and The interior, Gambia immigration department amongst others also met the Vice president behind closed door. The outcomes are expected to improve migration management in the country.
Continue Reading >>The Scorpions of The Gambia exceeded their wildest dreams to overturn a 2-0 deficit to secure an unlikely, stunning 4-2 win against the Black Stars of Ghana in front of a stunned home crowd at the Accra Sports Stadium in round two of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. It appears as if it was going to be a long afternoon for coach Johnathan McKinstry and his side when Ghana took a 2-0 lead after 33 minutes with a penalty from Ernest Nuamah and a free kick from Felix Afena-Gyan.But how the Scorpions turned the game on its head to grab maximum points is one thing that left Ghana in total bewilderment. A rally with a converted penalty by Muhammed Badamosi, a close-range finish by captain Omar Colley and a brace from substitute Ebrima Colley were enough to send disbelief across the footballing family in Ghana and earned The Gambia a second straight win.But this wasn't a difference in class and maturity. This could only be credited to one thing - tactical discipline. TACTICAL MASTERCLASS BY JOHNNY MCKINSTRY The Northern Irish man deployed a five-man defensive approach with Omar Colley, Yaya Bojang, Alagie Saine, Joseph Ceesay, and Ibou Touray, all accustomed defenders starting.That wasn't packing the bus. It was a game plan. The approach worked against Somalia, where the Scorpions recorded a 2-1 victory, but this time around, it brought along an even bigger result.The approach prevented Ghana from scoring in open play. If not for the penalty and a free kick that looked more like a gift from goalkeeper Babucarr Gaye, who wrongly positioned the wall and himself, the score was going to be even more embarrassing for the home side.Even with the five defenders, Ibou Touray and Joseph Ceesay were largely seen joining the attack when the Scorpions were in possession, with the combative Portsmouth man Ebou Adams covering the gaps at the back when necessary. That helped the team draw themselves back on level terms at 2-2 before half-time. The biggest turning point came in the second half when the Scorpions tactician added left-back Sainey Sanyang and midfielders Mouhamadou Drammeh and Ebrima Colley and forward Adama Bojang in the positions of midfielders Abubakr Barry, Suleiman Camara, Abdoulie Sanyang and striker Mohammed Badamosi. Not only did Ebrima Colley score two goals, but the way they helped the team maintain a clear balance between defence and attack and how Sainey, Mouhamadou and Ebrima combined in the lead-up to the 4th goal, justified how right those tactical switches were. All through the game, the Scorpions were tactically mature, disciplined, and they stayed true to their approach from start to finish. FLURRY OF GOALS Knowing fully well that losing to the Scorpions would be considered unforgivable, the Black Stars started the show in the 27th minute when Ernest Nuamah converted from the penalty spot following a foul by Badamosi. 3 minutes later, Felix Afena-Gyan curled home a free kick from outside the 18-yard box.At the moment, Ghanaians, from supporters to the Football Association President, the belief was that it was an afternoon of redemption. But the way the Scorpions rallied was astonishing. Mohamed Badamosi reduced the deficit from the spot in the 37th minute following a foul on Abdoulie Sanyang by captain Gedeon Mensah in the box.With 3 minutes to halftime, the Scorpions were levelled. Captain Omar Colley hit home a flick from fellow centre-back Yaya Bojang following a long throw from left-back Ibou Touray in the 42nd minute. After the break, the Black Stars were desperate for a win, attacking the Scorpions at every presentable chance. They were caught unawares at the back twice when the Scorpions switched gear to hit them on a quick break. In the 68th minute, Mohamed Badamosi flicks a long looping ball in the path of substitute Ebrima Colley, who hit past Benjamin Asare in the Ghana goalpost. And on the stroke of regulation time, the Scorpions hit the final nail into the Ghanaian coffin as Ebrima Colley headed home a Sainey Sanyang's cross into an unguarded net. The result sent a total shockwave and uproar among the home crowd, who angrily called for the resignation of the Portuguese boss Carlos Queiroz and Kurt Okraku, the President of the Ghana Football Association. A WORTHLESS DIFFERENCE The difference between the Black Stars and the Scorpions is like a gap between a beginner and a professional. The Black Stars, who are currently ranked 65th in the world, have played in five World Cups and reached the quarter-finals in 2010. They managed four Africa Cup of Nations titles in their 24 appearances in the competition and also won seven WAFU titles. These achievements will make anyone believe that Ghana should not be any match for the Scorpions. This difference was rendered worthless as they were humbled before their home crowd. The Scorpions of The Gambia are ranked 116th globally and have only appeared in the AFCON twice, in 2021 and 2023, finishing in the 2021 quarter-finals as their best feat without ever playing in the World Cup. But the recent form of the Scorpions is unmatched by that of Ghana. In 12 consecutive games, the Scorpions won 7, drew 1, and lost 4, as opposed to Ghana, who have won just one, lost 9 and drawn 2 in 12 straight outings now. This simply shows how football is played and won not by size, achievements, or history, but on form and perhaps a bit of luck. WHAT NEXT? This victory puts the Scorpions in pole position to qualify for the 2027 AFCON after they missed out on the last edition. If they can grab six points out of a possible 12 in their remaining four games, qualification will certainly be secured.For the Black Stars, their destiny squarely lies in their own hands. They must grab a minimum of 10 points out of a possible 12 in their next four games to stand even the slightest of chances.For now, they will first need to diagnose their problem and start working on it; perhaps a possible return of Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo, and Jordan Ayew in the next window could be a possible solution. That, though, remains to be seen!
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>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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