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GAMBIA POLICE ARREST SUSPECT IN BRUTAL MURDER OF 40-YEAR-OLD WOMAN IN BRIKAMA

The Gambia Police Force has arrested a 26-year-old suspect, Sulayman Saidykhan, in connection with the alleged murder of Fatou Sambou, a 40-year-old resident of Kembujeh Madina. The victim was found with injuries to her head and hand on her groundnut farm behind the Brikama Power Station on December 2.Thanks to the robust efforts of the police and timely support from stakeholder institutions, investigators were able to track and trace the victim's stolen mobile phone, ultimately leading to the suspect's arrest. Saidykhan, an ex-soldier with a previous criminal conviction, was found in possession of the deceased's mobile phone.The suspect has been cautioned, charged, and detained, while investigations continue to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The Gambia Police Force reassures the public that a thorough, impartial, and professional investigation will be conducted to ensure justice is served.The police acknowledge the support of all stakeholders whose cooperation contributed to the swift arrest of the suspect. The public can rest assured that the police are working diligently to bring perpetrators of such heinous crimes to justice.

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  • GPF
  • December 6, 2025 11:28
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PRESIDENT BARROW RECEIVES MILLIONS-WORTH OF DONATIONS TO BOOST ECONOMIC GROWTH

President Adama Barrow has received a significant donation from Qatar Charity, consisting of 130 cargo tricycles, 130 'tuk-tuk', and 100 diesel-powered milling machines. The donation, worth millions of dollars, is aimed at empowering vulnerable communities and promoting economic growth in The Gambia.The donated items will be deployed in partnership with the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), civil society organisations, and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare. The project aligns with the government's YIRIWA agenda, focusing on improving livelihoods and promoting economic growth.Qatar Charity has implemented projects in The Gambia worth USD 5 million since 2019, covering education, health, water, sanitation, and support for vulnerable families. The latest phase of the economic empowerment program focuses on rural employment and women's development.President Barrow expressed profound appreciation for the donation, describing it as a reflection of true international solidarity. He praised Qatar Charity for demonstrating a deep commitment to strengthening vulnerable communities and upholding human dignity.The Qatari Ambassador to The Gambia, H.E. Abdallah Jassim Al Kabi, also presented school bags with stationery items to school-going orphans during the ceremony, further highlighting the charity's commitment to supporting education and vulnerable populations.

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PRESIDENT BARROW URGES BAKAU TO ABANDON OPPOSITION, EMBRACE DEVELOPMENT

The President H.E. Adama Barrow held a meeting in Bakau,  as he wraps up his annual Meet the People Tour in the Kanifing Municipality. President Barrow called on Bakau to abandon its age-old loyalty to the opposition and embrace his government to accelerate national development, foster unity and enhance stability. The rally drew a massive turnout with crowds of young people and women receiving the President and entourage at the main intersection leading to the venue.After the usual welcome ceremonies,  the Alkalo of Bakau Doudou Bojang made a passionate appeal to the people to change course and embrace the government of President Adama Barrow. “Decades in the opposition have brought us nothing. We should draw inspiration from others and turn a new page,” the Alkalo said. He cited the various development projects across the country, undertaken by the President and appealed to the government to replicate them in Bakau.This was re-echoed by several other speakers, including Mariama Sanneh, the lady councillor, Mabinta Badji, the constituency mobiliser,  Fafa Sanyang and Fatou Darboe. They all called for a shift in politics to dismantle Bakau's reputation as an “opposition stronghold” by embracing the NPP.  Such political realignment,  the speakers added will “usher in a new era of development for this coastal settlement.” They also deplored the poor state of infrastructure in the town, with most neighbourhoods prone to flooding during the rainy season.  This state of affairs,  the people of Bakau lament, is “unsustainable and needs urgent action to modernise the town.”Unda Nyang, a senior member of the NPP, appealed to the government to expedite renovation works of the Independence Stadium to enable the Gambia to host home games and boost chances of qualification for major tournaments. The executive coordinator for the Kanifing Municipality,  Bakary Singhateh lauded the President and his government for the many development projects in the Municipality that have greatly improved the lives and livelihoods of the people. The Minister for Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie, disclosed that the government has spent funds to renovate and modernise the Independence Stadium, adding that works will be completed by March of next year.  He defended the slow pace of the works, arguing that since it's construction 40 years ago, the stadium has never been renovated. The sports minister urged the people of the Municipality to hold the Kanifing Municipal Council to account, adding that since assuming office,  the Council has not undertaken any meaningful development initiative to plough back taxes to the people. The Minister for Health, Dr Ahmadou Lamin Samateh, disclosed that the government will build a health post in Bakau to provide primary health care to the people. President Adama Barrow called Bakau a “historic settlement that has played a prominent role in the political life of the country,”  but reassured that as President he does not discriminate against any community.He pledged to modernise Bakau by replicating the Banjul project to construct all the roads, drainage and sewage systems. Responding to appeals from the women, the President instructed the Fisheries Ministry to provide two fishing boats to the community of Bakau. He also announced that seven selected youths will be awarded D100,000 each to venture into economic activities. The President also demanded accountability from the KMC, urging taxpayers to demand that the Municipal authorities invest in projects that will improve the lives of the people. President Barrow finally paid tribute to his longtime political mentor, Dembo Bojang, who died a few months ago. He described the late politician as a political heavyweight who dominated politics in Bakau and stood by him during the most trying times of his political journey.  The President described him as a “great patriot, who loved Bakau and always worked for the interest of his people.” He concluded by thanking Bakau for welcoming him with a massive reception,  and promised a brighter future for the town and its inhabitants 

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PRESIDENT BARROW REASSURES GAMBIANS OF COMMITMENT TO RENOVATING INDEPENDENCE STADIUM

His Excellency Adama Barrow, the President of the Republic of The Gambia, has reassured Gambians that his government is committed to renovating the iconic Independence Stadium to international standards. The President made the remarks after visiting the stadium in Bakau to assess the ongoing renovation works, which are designed to upgrade infrastructure and services to the required FIFA standards. The President also laid the foundation stone of a fish smoking market and toured the KG 5 mini stadium in Banjul The President first arrived at the proposed fish smoking site in Banjul,  where he laid the foundation stone for the construction of a modern environmentally friendly fish smoking market.  Until its demolition,  the makeshift market was occupied by more than 60 women fish vendors who made a living by smoking fish for sale. During his tour last year, the President was approached by the women vendors who pleaded with him to construct a modern fish smoking facility for them.  True to his promise, the President set up a committee headed by the Vice President to mobilise funds to construct the market.The contract for the construction of the market is supervised by Gamworks, the government agency for the management of public works. According to the Project Director, Elizabeth Carayol Ndong,   the work entails the construction of modern and environmentally friendly smoke houses to cater for the needs of the women and vendors.The women vendors and fishermen expressed profound gratitude to the president for fulfilling his promise, adding that the new market will empower vendors and modernise fish handling and processing in Banjul.The regional coordinator for Banjul Ebrima Jawo described the development as another milestone for the city, which has seen unprecedented developments under President Barrow's leadership. He thanked the President and urged the women vendors to take advantage of this opportunity to contribute to the development of the city.The foundation-laying ceremony attracted wild celebrations from the women vendors, who cheered the President and thanked him for empowering them. Women play an important role in the Fisheries sector, mostly specialising in fish processing and handling.  This modern market, specifically designed for smoking catfish, is expected to maximise and solidify Banjul's place as the foremost producer of one of the most prized catfish in The Gambia.  The project is expected to finish within 6 months.The President later drove to the KG5 mini stadium, just a few hundred metres from the market, which is equally undergoing construction works to modernise the pitch to CAF standards. The President was received by notable Banjulians and representatives of the youth. Speaking to GRTS, the Project Manager from Gamworks, Sheriff Ndow, disclosed that works are now at the final stages after all the preparatory works have been completed.The youths of Banjul commended the President and his government for restoring the mini stadium to international standards. As the only football field in Banjul,  this development,  the youths argued, will enable the city to resume its nawettan tournament in earnest.President Barrow also thanked the youths for their patience and reassured them that the government will do everything possible to promote sports participation by providing the necessary infrastructure for young people. The President completed his tour of project sites with a visit to the Independence Stadium, where works are progressing to build the roads around the stadium as required by the continental football body CAF.President Barrow was briefed by contractors and site supervisors on the progress of the works, with assurances that they will be completed by the end of this month.  This development will lay to rest speculation about the state of affairs at the country's only stadium, which has been undergoing massive renovation and modernisation works. The President called for patience and reassured that the government is committed to ensuring that all works meet international standards as required by Caf and FIFA.He thanked all stakeholders for the hard work and tasked them to ensure the timely completion of the works to enable the country to host football matches at home.

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SANNA MANJANG CHARGED WITH TRIPLE MURDER

Former Gambia Armed Forces member Sanna Manjang, accused of human rights abuses under ex-president Yahya Jammeh, faces three murder counts from 2005-2006, including the killings of Dayda Hydara, Ndong Mboob, and Haruna Jammeh. The case has been transferred to the High Court, with Manjang remanded to Mile II Central Prison. 

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  • GRTS
  • December 3, 2025 08:08
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EXTRADITED: SANNA MANJANG NOTORIOUS JUNGLER RETURN TO GAMBIA TO FACE JUSTICE 

Sanna Manjang, a former member of the notorious "Junglers" hit squad, has been extradited to The Gambia from Senegal, where he was arrested on November 29, 2025.Manjang is accused of gross human rights violations during former President Yahya Jammeh's rule, including torture, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings. He was handed over to the Gambia Armed Forces Military Police by the Senegalese Military at Giboro village under heavy armed presence.Senegalese and Gambian authorities taking pictures before the handover: “Manjang is named in the findings of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission for his central role in torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings carried out by the Junglers.”The extradition marks a significant step in The Gambia's pursuit of justice and accountability for past human rights abuses. Sanna's arrest and extradition demonstrate the country's commitment to holding perpetrators accountable and providing closure for victims and their families.WHAT NEXT?Manjang is expected to face legal proceedings in The Gambia, where he will be processed in accordance with the law. His extradition and potential prosecution serve as a testament to the country's determination to confront its past and ensure accountability for human rights abuses.

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  • GRTS
  • December 2, 2025 09:49
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GAMBIA IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT SHATTERS REVENUE RECORDS WITH D584 MILLION COLLECTION IN 9 MONTHS

The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) has announced a groundbreaking revenue collection of D584,414,478.30 from January to October 2025, representing a 112% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This impressive performance surpasses the annual total collection of 2024, which stood at D420,219,024.00, marking a 39% increase.The revenue was generated through the Gambia Biometric Identification System, Immigration Fees, and the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS). According to the GID, this achievement underscores the crucial role the department plays in strengthening the government's consolidated revenue base.The GID has expanded the accessibility of national documents to Gambians, both at home and abroad, reaffirming the government's commitment to safeguarding the rights of Gambians. The department is also accelerating the rollout of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC), easing identification and regional integration.Despite this significant achievement, the GID continues to face challenges, including resource constraints, mobility challenges, and legislative gaps that affect the effective implementation of immigration management and border governance. The department is committed to curbing irregular migration, promoting access to legal identity, and building the capacity of immigration staff to sustain a robust, efficient, and service-driven institution.GID Director General Ebrima Mboob reaffirmed the department's commitment to closing revenue leakages, embracing technology, and upholding standards in immigration law. The GID calls on local authorities, landlords, and communities to remain vigilant and support the department in the enforcement of alien registration and safeguarding the territorial sovereignty of The Gambia.

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  • GID
  • December 2, 2025 03:39
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GRA HOSTS SIERRA LEONE COUNTERPARTS FOR STUDY TOUR ON DIGITAL EXCISE TAX STAMP SOLUTION

The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) has welcomed a high-level delegation from the Sierra Leone National Revenue Authority (SLNRA) for a strategic study tour focused on implementing the SICPA digital excise tax stamp solution. This visit marks the first time SLNRA has sent its top officials to engage with GRA counterparts in The Gambia, highlighting the country's growing reputation as a regional leader in taxation.The study tour aims to strengthen cooperation between the two institutions and provide a platform for GRA officials to share their experience in advancing revenue collection in a digital era. The visiting delegation will learn about the SICPA project's implementation, including the legal frameworks used to enforce its implementation, and participate in field tours to gain first-hand knowledge of the project's impact.The GRA's experience with the SICPA project has positioned The Gambia as a model for regional taxation, and this visit will enable SLNRA officials to learn from their counterparts and enhance revenue collection in Sierra Leone. This five-day exchange visit underscores the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing between revenue authorities in the region.

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GAMBIA'S PRESIDENT BARROW CALLS FOR ACCOUNTABILITY FOR COLONIAL-ERA CRIMES AS SENEGAL COMMEMORATES TTHIAROYEMASSACRE

President Adama Barrow has paid tribute to the brave Senegalese riflemen who were massacred by French colonial forces in Thiaroye, Senegal, during World War II. Speaking at the 81st anniversary commemoration of the infamous Thiaroye Massacre, President Barrow called for accountability for crimes committed by colonial empires against Africans during the colonial period.The ceremony, attended by several high-ranking delegations from across Africa, shines a spotlight on one of the most brutal acts of betrayal and barbarity in colonial history. Over 300 Senegalese riflemen were massacred by French colonial forces for demanding pay after liberating France from Nazi Germany.President Barrow described the massacre as a "cold-blooded murder" and paid homage to the Africans who fought on the side of the Allies during World War II, commending them for their courage and sacrifice. He also commended the Senegalese government for setting up a committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the massacre and immortalise the exploits of Senegalese soldiers who participated in the liberation of France.The Gambian leader emphasised the importance of teaching future generations about the sacrifices and contributions of Africans in the Second World War, adding that their legacy should serve as valuable lessons for Africans to take hold of their destiny.The President of Senegal, Basirou Diomaye Faye, thanked President Barrow for gracing the commemorations and reaffirmed his government's commitment to work closely with France to find closure to one of the darkest chapters in French colonial history.

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AFRICA'S FORESTRY AND WILDLIFE UNDER SPOTLIGHT AS GAMBIA HOSTS KEY CONFERENCE

The Gambia has taken a significant step in promoting sustainable forest and wildlife management in Africa by hosting the 25th Session of the African Forestry and Wildlife Commission and the Ninth African Forestry and Wildlife Week in Banjul. The conference, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, brought together government officials and around 200 delegates from 47 African countries to discuss the continent's most pressing forestry and wildlife challenges and opportunities.With the theme "Innovative and Inclusive Forest and Wildlife Resources Management for Africa," the five-day conference aims to explore ways to address the major problems facing Africa's tropical forests, including forest degradation, commercial logging, and ineffective government policies in environmental protection. African forests are rich in biodiversity and provide a livelihood for over 1 billion people, according to experts.The Gambia's Vice President, Mohammed B.S. Jallow, who presided over the opening ceremony, called on partners to continue supporting African countries in their wildlife management efforts. "I call on our development partners, international organisations, civil society, and the private sector, to continue supporting African countries in advancing sustainable forest and wildlife management," he said.VP Jallow highlighted the Gambia's progress in protecting endangered species, saying that forest degradation has been "slowed, while reforestation is on the increase." He attributed this success to the government's efforts to expand protected areas, enforce regulations, and combat illegal hunting, poaching, and wildlife trafficking.This conference is a testament to The Gambia's leadership in conservation, sustainable land use, and environmental governance. Key stakeholders, including the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the United Nations, have expressed their commitment to supporting the country's efforts."FAO stands firm in supporting Member States to advance national priorities, mobilise resources, and ensure that forestry, wildlife protection, and climate action remain central to sustainable development and the 2030 Agenda," said Ms Moshibudi Rampedi, FAO Representative in The Gambia.The convergence will provide a platform for delegates to exchange ideas and build a stronger, more coherent African response to environmental shocks. With Africa losing about “4 million hectares of forest every year,” the stakes are high, and the need for collective action is urgent.Gambia's Environment Minister, Rohey Jonh Manjang, emphasised the government's commitment to protecting forests and wildlife, saying, "Through the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, we have intensified efforts to restore degraded lands, enforce anti-logging laws, and halt the export of timber."The conference is expected to yield concrete recommendations and actions to address the challenges facing Africa's forestry and wildlife sectors and promote sustainable development on the continent.

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PRESIDENT BARROW ATTENDS 81ST ANNIVERSARY OF SENEGALESE RIFLEMAN MASSACRE

President Adama Barrow has arrived in Dakar to join other African leaders in commemorating the 81st anniversary of the tragic massacre of Senegalese riflemen by French colonial forces in 1944. The ceremony, which honours the memory of over 300 riflemen who lost their lives fighting for France's liberation during World War II, will take place at a military camp in Thiaroye.Upon arrival, President Barrow was received by Senegalese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cheikh Niang, and The Gambia's High Commissioner in Senegal, H.E. Hadrameh Sidibeh. A ceremonial band played the National Anthem, and President Barrow reviewed the Guard of Honour mounted by the Senegalese Armed Forces.The Gambian leader is accompanied by a high-powered delegation, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Serign Modou Njie, and Minister and Chief of Staff at the Presidency, Mod Ceesay. This significant event serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by African soldiers in the fight for freedom and highlights the strong ties between The Gambia and Senegal.

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BREAKING: SANNA MANJANG, FORMER JUNGLERS MEMBER, ARRESTED IN SENEGAL 

The Government of the Gambia, through the Ministry of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, has announced the arrest of Sanna Manjang, a former member of the Gambia Armed Forces, who has been implicated in serious human rights violations during the rule of former President Yahya Jammeh. Below is the full press release:“The Government of The Gambia informs the public that Sanna Manjang, a former member of the Junglers who has been implicated in serious human rights violations during the administration of former President Yahya Jammeh, was apprehended in the early hours of this morning in the Casamance Region of southern Senegal.This arrest is the result of a coordinated security operation between the authorities of the Republic of Senegal and The Gambia. The two sister countries have worked closely together in recent months to locate Mr Manjang, who has been a fugitive since January 2017.Mr Manjang is named in the findings of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission for his central role in torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings carried out by the Junglers. His arrest represents a significant step in the ongoing pursuit of justice and accountability for victims of abuses committed under the former regime.Arrangements are underway for his repatriation to The Gambia, where he will be processed in accordance with the law.The Government reaffirms its unwavering commitment to justice, accountability and the protection of the rights and security of all persons within The Gambia. It further assures the public that the stability, peace and security of the country will never be compromised.The Government expresses its deep appreciation to the Government of Senegal for its continued cooperation and solidarity in matters of regional security and justice.The public will be kept informed as this process advances.”

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VP JALLOW LAUNCHES FSQA'S STRATEGIC PLAN 2026-2030

His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, the Vice President, presided over the launch of the Food Safety and Quality Authority's (FSQA) Strategic Plan for 2026-2030 at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo. This strategic plan outlines the Authority's vision, strategic priorities, and key interventions aimed at strengthening food safety and quality systems, enhancing regulatory effectiveness, and safeguarding public health in The Gambia over the medium term.The landmark event gathered key stakeholders from the government, development partners, and the private sector, highlighting the government's commitment to ensuring that citizens have broad access to quality and safe food.Momodou Bah, the Director General of FSQA, explained that this initiative aims to meet the required standards while the FSQA continues to develop national regulations. “We have an Act from 2011, regulations started in 2021, a policy was established in 2024, and now we have developed a strategic plan in 2025. This progression sharpens our focus to ensure we are fulfilling the mandates of the government,” Bah stated.This marks the beginning of a transformative journey, as food safety regulations become increasingly important in ensuring the well-being of every individual.Dr Amadou Sowe, the FSQA Board Chair, emphasised that the successful implementation of the plan will require strong government support. “This ambition will demand sustained investment, strong political will, and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders. Strategic plans don’t implement themselves; they require leadership, discipline, resources, and collective ownership,” Dr Sowe remarked.Immaculada Roca i Cortés, the European Union Ambassador to The Gambia, reiterated the EU's commitment to supporting FSQA. She expressed satisfaction in contributing to a stronger regulatory framework, a more effective inspection and control system, and enhancing technical capabilities.Reports indicate that foodborne illnesses cause an estimated 137,000 deaths annually in Africa, with productivity losses exceeding $20 billion.Public Service Minister Baboucarr Bouy assured FSQA of their support as policymakers while urging all stakeholders to back this initiative. “I urge all stakeholders to rally behind FSQA and support the effective implementation of this Strategic Plan. By doing so, we will not only protect the health of our people but also unlock opportunities for Gambian products to thrive in competitive markets,” Minister Bouy said.In his launch statement, Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow described the FSQA Strategic Plan as the result of rigorous analysis, broad consultation, and honest self-reflection. “It is a plan that is both nationally rooted and internationally aligned,” he remarked.Vice President Jallow characterised the moment as one of “genuine national significance,” stating, “The food we eat is not merely a matter of personal choice; it is a matter of public health, economic security, and national dignity.”An estimated GMD 188.1 million is required for the implementation of the strategic plan over the next five years. H.E. Mohammed B.S. Jallow called on the Ministry of Finance, development partners, and the private sector to recognise food safety as “not a cost, but an investment in public health, economic competitiveness, and The Gambia's reputation as a reliable source of safe, high-quality products in regional and international markets.”The new strategic plan commits to strengthening FSQA's institutional and operational systems, prioritising financial sustainability and resource mobilisation, risk assessment, inspection, surveillance, and enforcement.Additionally, it aims to modernise laboratory services and digital infrastructure, while deepening stakeholder engagement and public awareness.Strategic plans are not just documents; they serve as critical guides for institutions. Their clarity and effectiveness dictate how well these institutions strive to fulfil their purpose.Now that the plan has been launched, the focus will shift to its implementation, which is anticipated to enhance The Gambia’s international recognition in global food markets.

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VP JALLOW HOSTS FLURRY OF COURTESY CALLS: UNITY, AUTISM, STUDENT NURSES TOP AGENDA

A flurry of activity took place as several associations paid a courtesy call on His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, the Vice President of The Republic of The Gambia, to introduce their groups and explore potential areas for cooperation.The first to arrive were members of the 'I Am Gambian Association,' a movement dedicated to fostering unity and national pride in the pursuit of sustainable national development.Famara Manka, the President of the association, explained the focus of their visit after a closed-door discussion with Vice President Jallow. He stated that the association, founded last year, is committed to expanding its reach across the country to achieve its goals. "I Am Gambian Association is dedicated to bringing Gambians together. We aim to overlook our tribal, religious, and cultural differences and embrace the belief of 'I am a Gambian,'" he added.(Members of the 'I Am Gambian Association. PC: OVP)Shortly after noon, the Vice President welcomed members of the Gambia Autism Support and Advocacy Network, who visited to highlight their work and seek stronger collaboration with the government.Following some preliminary formalities, the group engaged in closed-door talks with Vice President Jallow and his top officials. They discussed issues ranging from raising awareness to inclusion and support for individuals with autism and their families.Abdou-Majid Jallow, the National Coordinator of the Gambia Autism Support and Advocacy Network, described the purpose of their visit. "We aim to involve the Vice President in raising awareness and advocating for people living with autism in this country, as there is still a significant amount of stigma and misconception surrounding it," he said.(Members of the Gambia Autism Support and Advocacy Network. PC: OVP)The day's courtesy calls concluded with a meeting of the Gambia Student Nurses Association.After engaging with Vice President Jallow and his senior officials, Maha Sowe, the president of the Gambia Student Nurses Association, outlined their discussions, noting the Vice President's strong support for their cause."The Vice President is considerate and genuinely wants to help Gambian students, especially student nurses. He assured us that his office would see what assistance they could provide."(Members of the Gambia Student Nurses Association. PC: OVP)These organisations are hopeful that they can rely on the Office of the Vice President for stronger government support moving forward.

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2026 PERMANENT SECRETARIES’ RETREAT: VP JALLOW AFFIRMS GOVERNMENT’S RESOLVE TO FULFIL NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN

The Vice President, His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow, has presided over the opening ceremony of the first quarter 2026 Permanent Secretaries’ Retreat at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo. The convergence which brought together permanent secretaries to look at development trajectories of the government agencies, is convened under the auspices of the Ministry of Public Service, Administrative Reforms, Policy Coordination and Delivery, and the Office of the Secretary to Cabinet and Head of the Civil Service. Permanent secretaries might not be seen frequently on the front line, but they are the technicians pulling the strings behind the woodwork to ensure efficiency at various government ministries.This four-day retreat will enable them to reflect on the progress made in implementing the Recovery Focused National Development Plan 2023-2027 and how they can continue to work together to speed up implementation. Presiding over the event, the Vice President, Mohammed B.S Jallow, said achieving sustainable development requires collaboration, affirming the government's resolve in policy guidance to realise the goals of the national development plan. “Sustainable development cannot be achieved by the government alone. It requires the collective effort and synergy of all stakeholders—the public sector, private sector, civil society, academia, and citizens alike.”“The Government of The Gambia will continue to provide clear policy direction, sound governance frameworks, and accountable leadership,” he stated.With geopolitical tension disturbing many economies across developing countries, these technicians will be compelled to accelerate the implementation of flagship projects under the Recovery-Focused National Development Plan with Vice President Mohammed B.S Jallow assuring the full backing of the government. “Let me reaffirm that the Government, under the leadership of His Excellency President Adama Barrow, remains firmly committed to strengthening the civil service and modernising public service delivery to meet the evolving needs of our people,” VP Jallow said. “The significant enhancement of civil service remuneration—by up to 130 per cent—reflects our dedication to improving welfare, boosting morale, and enhancing productivity within the public sector,” he added. Baboucar Bouy, the Minister for Public Service, urged permanent secretaries to help their ministries work to meet the growing needs of the citizenry. “The theme: “Delivering the National Development Plan: Unified Actions for Tangible Results,” speaks directly to our collective responsibility. It highlights a fundamental truth, and that is, fragmentation only undermines progress, while unity of purpose drives progress,” the Public Service Minister said.On the move to attain the Recovery-Focused National Development Plan, Alieu Njie, the Secretary to the Cabinet and Head of the Civil Service, called for the prioritisation of issues that can positively benefit the citizens. “As we move closer to the end of the National Development Plan cycle and towards the next electoral period. The window for delivering results is narrowing. This creates urgency. The work we do over the coming months will shape public confidence in government performance.”“We must prioritise what matters most. What can be delivered within the time frame and what will have the greatest impact on our citizens. The responsibility before us is clear. The success of the Recovery Focused National Development Plan will not be judged by the design but by the results,” Njie said. Hopes are high that by the time these technicians return for the second quarter retreat, they will be able to look back and count their achievements in the attainment of the national development plan 2023-2027.

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PRESIDENT BARROW HOSTS COMMONWEALTH CHIEF, WOMEN’S CHAMBER IN BACK-TO-BACK STATE HOUSE MEETINGS

In a series of meetings at the State House, President H.E. Adama Barrow hosted Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayokor Botchwey and members of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday.Secretary-General Botchwey was accompanied by Serign Modou Njie, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. After they met with the President, Botchwey stated that her visit was part of her tour of Commonwealth member states aimed at "strengthening cooperation" in areas of mutual interest.H.E President Adama Barrow with the Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayokor Botchwey. [PC: State House]She assured that the Commonwealth will continue to engage with The Gambia to support development, capacity building, and democracy. Additionally, she formally invited the President to the Commonwealth Heads of State and Government summit in Antigua later in November.In a separate meeting, the members of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce updated the President on their activities and the challenges they face. Naffie Barry, the Managing Director of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce, described the meeting as very productive, noting that they received strong reassurances of support from the Gambian leader.Photo session of members of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce with H.E Adama Barrow [PC: State House]She expressed gratitude to the President for the audience and conveyed hope that the meeting would lead to positive outcomes for Gambian women.

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PRESIDENT BARROW BRIEFED ON UTG CONVOCATION AS 1,600 SET TO GRADUATE IN FARABA

Officials from the University of The Gambia paid a courtesy call on the President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, at State House on Tuesday. The delegation was led by the Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology and comprised the Vice Chancellor Professor Herbert Robinson, the Chairman of the Governing Council Prof Momodou Mustapha Fanneh and the Registrar Bobo Baldeh. They were at the State House to update the President,  who is also the Chancellor of the University on the upcoming convocation ceremony at the Faraba Banta campus, where over 1,600 students are expected to graduate after fulfilling all requirements in their different fields of study. Speaking to reporters after they met with President Barrow, Professor Herbert Robinson, the Vice Chancellor, disclosed that discussions were good and productive as they had agreed on all the details of the much-anticipated convocation ceremony later this weekend.Professor Herbert Robinson, the Vice Chancellor of the University of The Gambia  (pic: State House)“Over 1,600 students will graduate this year from the 9 schools of the University,  among them the first Doctoral graduates and graduates from the new school of Dentistry,” Professor Robinson added.The Vice Chancellor further expressed gratitude to the president and the Higher Education Minister for the support to the University, noting that the UTG has “seen massive investment and modernisation in infrastructure over the years” attributing this to President Barrow's “personal commitment” to the higher education sector.

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INDEPENDENCE STADIUM RENOVATIONS NEAR END, TEST TRAINING CLOSED TO PUBLIC

27th April, 2026 - The Ministry of Youth & Sports wishes to inform the public that renovation works at the Independence Stadium are nearing completion, marking a significant milestone in efforts to restore and upgrade the country’s premier sports facility.As part of the pitch consulting company - Gregori International - ground testing requirements, a scheduled training involving the female  National Under-20 Team will take place on Tuesday, 28th April 2026. This exercise is aimed at helping the contractor assess the pitch safety, ball movement, and proper traction. In light of the ongoing works and to ensure safety and smooth coordination, the training will be held strictly behind CLOSED DOORS. Access to the stadium will, therefore, be restricted. The general public, as well as members of the media, are kindly advised that they will not be permitted entry for this training. The Ministry appreciates the understanding and continued patience of the public during this final phase of the renovation process. Further updates regarding the official reopening and subsequent activities at the stadium will be communicated in due course.

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