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OIC Chair Adama Barrow Urges Restraint Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

4 March 2026 — Banjul, The Gambia: His Excellency President Adama Barrow, in his capacity as Chair of the 15th Islamic Summit of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), expresses deep concern regarding the rising tensions in the Middle East following reports of military actions involving the United States of America and the State of Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as subsequent retaliatory responses affecting interests in the region.President Barrow notes with concern that the unfolding developments risk further heightening instability in an already fragile environment, with potentially serious consequences for civilian populations, critical infrastructure, and broader regional and global security.In this regard, he calls upon all parties to exercise the utmost restraint, avoid further escalation, and adhere fully to their obligations under the Charter of the United Nations and international law, including respect for the sovereignty of states and the protection of civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law.As Chair of the Islamic Summit, President Barrow reiterates the OIC’s longstanding and principled position that disputes should be addressed through peaceful means. He emphasises that dialogue, diplomacy, and constructive engagement remain the most viable avenues for reducing tensions and advancing sustainable peace.President Barrow, therefore, encourages all concerned parties to pursue diplomatic channels through the United Nations and other appropriate international and regional mechanisms. The OIC remains ready to support sincere efforts to de-escalate, mediate and achieve the peaceful resolution of disputes.The Republic of The Gambia reaffirms its enduring commitment to peace, justice, and the rule of international law. President Barrow further calls on the international community to intensify efforts toward restraint and renewed diplomacy to preserve regional stability and promote global peace.

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BENSOUDA BACKS GAMBIAN WRESTLING: HIGH COMMISSIONER PUSHES FOR UK TIES

Her Excellency Dr Fatou Bensouda, High Commissioner of The Gambia to the United Kingdom, accompanied Mr Matarr Saine, President of the Gambia Wrestling Association, to a maiden engagement with the British Wrestling Association at its headquarters in Manchester.H.E. Dr Bensouda, Deputy Head of Mission Mr Suntou Touray, and Mr Saine were received by Mr Craig Anthony, Chief Executive of the British Wrestling Association. Following opening courtesies, Mr Saine delivered a statement outlining the current landscape of Gambian wrestling, underscoring its significance as both a competitive sport and a pillar of socio-cultural heritage with a large grassroots following.Mr Saine emphasised that wrestling is deeply embedded in Gambian tradition and national identity, noting the pride the country takes in the achievements of its wrestlers on both domestic and international mats.Reflecting on the purpose of his visit, Mr Saine stated:“As we visit the British Wrestling Association today, I bring warm greetings from the people of The Gambia. Our patron is His Excellency Adama Barrow, President of The Gambia and a passionate supporter of wrestling, along with our Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Bakary Badjie.My aim is to explore opportunities to further develop our sport, enhance athlete performance, broaden coaching expertise, and foster cultural exchange between The Gambia and the United Kingdom, with whom we share strong diplomatic and cultural ties.”In his remarks, Mr Anthony expressed his delight at hosting the Gambian delegation and commended Mr Saine for initiating the collaboration. He noted that British wrestling continues to grow across disciplines and that a strategic partnership would strengthen technical development in both nations. Areas identified for cooperation include coach education, athlete welfare, performance training, technical skills development, and competition management.H.E. Dr Bensouda highlighted the unifying power of sport, particularly wrestling, which holds deep cultural roots in both societies. She also made a personal reference to her late father, who was a respected wrestling promoter in The Gambia, underscoring her longstanding connection to the sport.The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing in principle to formalise cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), scheduled to be signed next week at the Gambian High Commission in London.Also in attendance were Gambian community leader Mr Omar Keway Mbye, Mr Andreas Michaelas, Development Manager, and Mr Larence Dutton, Competition Manager of the British Wrestling Association.Deputy Head of Mission Mr Touray noted that enhanced collaboration in traditional and Olympic-style wrestling could strengthen bilateral relations, promote sports tourism, and encourage exchange programmes, including joint training camps and international competitions in The Gambia.26 February 2026End

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GAMBIA LEADS OACPS: MINISTER KEITA AT THE HELM

The Gambia has taken over the presidency of the Council of Ministers (COM) and the Chairmanship of the Committee of Ambassadors (COA) of the Organisation for African, Caribbean and Pacific States at a handing-over ceremony held in hybrid format on 2nd February 2026 at the OACPS Headquarters in Brussels, a position it will hold for the next six months until 31st July 2026. For most member states, including The Gambia, the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs is the designated minister responsible for the organisation’s dealings with the EU on development cooperation. It is against this backdrop that Honourable Seedy KM Keita, Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, took over the Presidency of the Council of Ministers from Honourable Peter Shanel Agovaka, Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Solomon Islands. The Gambia’s Finance Minister Keita will be chairing the Council of Ministers’ meetings in its role as the body responsible for implementing the guidelines laid down by the Summit of Heads of States.Similarly, His Excellency Ambassador Pa Musa Jobarteh, Ambassador of the Republic of The Gambia to the Kingdom of Belgium and the EU, also took over the Chairmanship of the Committee of Ambassadors from Ambassador Mr Moses Kouni Mose of the Solomon Islands to the Kingdom of Belgium.  The OACPS founded in 1975, is an international organisation with the collective aim of achieving sustainable development by promoting the economic, social and political well-being of its peoples. It comprises seventy-nine (79) Member States. Forty-eight (48) from sub-Saharan Africa, sixteen (16) from the Caribbean, and fifteen (15) from the Pacific Region. The main organs of the OACPS responsible for the management and oversight of its functions are:1) The Summit of Heads of States, which is the highest decision-making body of the OACPS meets every 3 years. 2) The Council of Ministers, 3) The Committee of Ambassadors, 4) The Secretariat, and5) The Joint Parliamentary Assembly of member states serves as a political oversight body.The next and 11th Summit of Heads of State will take place in Equatorial Guinea from March 27 to 29, 2026, with confirmation of attendance already received from many Presidents and foreign ministers. The Gambia’s leadership period will prioritise the following: Supporting the governance reforms and the future stability of the OACPS;Ensuring membership stability by working to improve the confidence of the member states in the Organisation as a pillar of multilateralism;Supporting a sustained political engagement to ensure successful preparations and high-level participation at the 11th OACPS Summit in Equatorial Guinea;Support the follow-up of the implementation and operationalisation of the Samoa Agreement, including engagement with the European Union; andMonitoring the successful implementation of the 2026 Secretariat Budget.

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GAMBIA EMBASSY IN CHINA DENIES MISCONDUCT ALLEGATIONS OVER SCHOLARSHIP ISSUES 

Embassy of the Republic of The Gambia to the People’s Republic of ChinaOn Recent Media Allegations Concerning Scholarship AssistanceThe Embassy of the Republic of The Gambia in the People’s Republic of China issues this statement pursuant to instructions received from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad in Banjul, in response to recent media allegations by certain Gambian students concerning scholarship assistance.The Embassy considers it necessary, in the interest of accuracy and public clarity, to place the following facts firmly on record:First, out of a total of over one hundred and thirty (130) Gambian students currently in the People’s Republic of China, only ten (10) students are affected by the specific scholarship-related issues that have been the subject of recent media reports. Any attempt to portray this matter as affecting the broader Gambian student population in China is therefore grossly misleading and factually incorrect.Second, it must be clearly stated that the affected students travelled to China on their own initiative under self-sponsorship arrangements. They were not beneficiaries of government-to-government scholarships or ministry o-r ininstitution-facilitatedponsorships at the time of their arrival. This critical fact has been omitted in public narratives and has contributed significantly to the misrepresentation of the situation.Notwithstanding this, and acting in good faith and in line with a humanitarian gesture, the Embassy nevertheless extended support and advocacy on behalf of the students to the Ministry of Higher Education R, Research, Science and Technology through official diplomatic channels. These efforts included formal correspondence, follow-ups, consultations, and the provision of guidance to the students, despite the fact that their initial status fell outside formal scholarship frameworks.The Embassy and by extension the Government of The Gambia t, therefore categorically reject the allegation that no definitive resolution has been achieved as if the students were prepared and sent by the Government of The Gambia. Such claims are false, misleading, and inconsistent with the documented actions undertaken by the Embassy within the scope of its mandate and diplomatic practice. Further i, it’s imperative to bring to the fore that the students’ tuition fees and stipends for the academic year 2024-2025 have been duly settled. Additionally, the stipends for the academic year 2025-2026 have already been disbursed. The remaining matter pertains solely to the tuition component of 20the 25-2026 Academic Year to be settled by the Government of the Gambia. However, Mithe nistry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology has encountered delays attributable to budgetary cycles and prevailing fiscal constraints arising from competing national priorities. The Embassy regrets that, instead of acknowledging the support already rendered by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology and failure to adhere to the advice of the embassy by engaging constructively through established channels, certain individuals chose to resort to the media and being economical with the facts. This approach is irresponsible, counterproductive, and damaging to ongoing efforts by the embassy and the Government of The Gambia as part of the broader scheme of duty of care and protecting the interests of Gambian students abroad.Accordingly, acting strictly in accordance with the guidance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, the Embassy remains committed to the welfare of Gambian nationals in China and will continue to provide assistance within the limits of its responsibilities. However, the Embassy will not accept attempts to undermine its integrity or that of the Government of The Gambia through misinformation or public pressure tactics.The Embassy urges the media and the public to rely on accurate and verified information, and calls on all Gambian students to engage with the Embassy in a spirit of honesty, responsibility, and mutual respect.The Embassy reserves the right, in line with instructions from Banjul, to take any further appropriate measures necessary to safeguard its institutional credibility and that of the Government of The Gambia.Issued by:Embassy of the Republic of The GambiaBeijing, People’s Republic of China

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GAMBIA'S PRESIDENT ADDRESSES NATION AMIDST BOAT DISASTER

“It is with deep concern and a heavy heart that I deliver this address on the tragic accident recorded off the coast of Jinack Village in the North Bank Region. This happened around midnight on 31st December 2025, when a boat reportedly carrying an unspecified number of irregular migrants capsized.So far, one hundred and two (102) persons have been rescued, with a number of victims still under urgent medical care. Sadly, only seven bodies have been recovered, but search and rescue operations are ongoing to locate those still unaccounted for. Meanwhile, our National Emergency Response Plan has been activated, and the Government has deployed adequate resources to intensify efforts and provide immediate assistance to the survivors.On behalf of the Government and the people of The Gambia, I extend my sincere condolences to the bereaved families and to all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy. I reassure every parent, relative, and loved one anxiously waiting for additional news that you are not alone in this dilemma. The nation grieves with you, and we hold you dearly in our hearts at this painful moment.On behalf of the entire nation, I express profound gratitude to the gallant personnel of The Gambia Navy for their swift, courageous, and determined response. On receiving the distress alert, they acted promptly by putting their lives at risk to save the lives of others. We equally commend our dedicated emergency response agencies and the personnel of the security services who supported the operations professionally and urgently.I also extend special appreciation to our health workers, doctors, nurses, paramedics, and staff at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, for working tirelessly to treat the injured, provide comfort, and preserve life. Their compassion and sacrifice remind us of the best of humanity. We are similarly grateful to the community volunteers, including local fishermen, who came forward selflessly to assist in the rescue operations. The Gambia salutes you all.This incident is a painful reminder of the dangerous and life-threatening nature of irregular migration. Surely, no dream, journey, or promise is worth a single loss of life at sea. My government, therefore, remains firmly committed to strengthening efforts to prevent irregular migration. More importantly, we remain strongly determined to create safer and more dignified opportunities for our young people through development initiatives, jobs, and other livelihood options at home.I urge all citizens to remain calm, supportive, and compassionate, as our security and humanitarian agencies continue their critical search and rescue operations. We will provide updates on the identities, nationalities, and other verified details of the victims whenever we receive them.Furthermore, the Government will launch a comprehensive investigation into this incident, and all individuals found wanting will be dealt with in accordance with the law.May the Almighty Allah grant mercy to those who have passed, healing to the injured, strength to the grieving families, and protection to all those involved in the rescue efforts.”

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DEFENCE MINISTRY CRACKS DOWN ON UNAUTHORISED DRONE ACTIVITY

The Ministry of Defence wishes to inform the general public that the flying or operation of Drones, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and any other aerial objects over key national installations (State House, Banjul International Airport, Defence and Security Installations) and the surrounding restricted airspace, is strictly prohibited.This restriction is enforced in accordance with National Security measures, as well as existing aviation and public safety laws. Any unauthorized aerial activity within or around these restricted areas is regarded as a serious security violation and shall attract serious consequences. Accordingly, no individual, organization, or institution is permitted to operate Drones or any similar UAV without explicit written authorization from the competent authorities. The Defence and Security Agencies have been duly instructed to take appropriate action against any unauthorized aerial activity within the restricted areas.All public and private drone operators are hereby strongly urged to adhere to this communication. The Ministry of Defence solicits the cooperation of all citizens and residents to ensure full compliance in safeguarding national security and maintaining public safety.  

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PRESIDENT BARROW DECLARES CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR HOLIDAYS FOR GAMBIA

The Office of the President hereby informs the public that His Excellency President Adama Barrow has declared Thursday, 25th December and Friday, 26th December 2025, respectively, as Christmas and Boxing Day, as public holidays throughout The Gambia. Additionally, Thursday 1st January 2026, has also been declared a public holiday as part of the New Year celebrations.On behalf of the President and the First Family, the Office of the President wishes everyone a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

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GAMBIA POLICE FORCE GENERAL  RECRUITMENT EXERCISE 2025/2026

The Gambia Police Force invites applications for the position of Police Constable as part of the 2025/2026 General Recruitment Exercise. All interested and qualified Gambian citizens are encouraged to apply. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for enlistment into The Gambia Police Force:A. Nationality: Applicants must be Gambian citizens and provide a valid Birth Certificate, National Identity Card, or Passport along with two recent passport-size photos.B. Education: All Applicants must possess a minimum of four (4) credits at WASSCE, including English Language. Candidates with specialised skills and professional qualifications are encouraged to apply:- Civil Engineering - ⁠Mechanical Engineering   - ⁠Criminology & Crime Analyst - ⁠Data Science - ⁠Forensic & Biomedical Sciences - ⁠Psychology & Counselling - ⁠Cyber Security - ⁠Facility Management - ⁠Electrical Engineering• Information and Communication Technology* Forensic Auditing* ⁠Procurement * ⁠Fleet Management C. Age Limit: Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application.D. Height Requirement: Applicants must be at least 1.60 meters tall for both males and females.E. Fitness Test: All candidates will undergo a basic fitness test to assess their physical fitness.F. All candidates must pass an entry examination.G. Health: Applicants will be subjected to medical examination.  H. Criminal Record: Applicants must submit a Certificate of Character.I. Interview: All candidates will undergo a formal interview.Application Process:Effective Monday, December 22, 2025, application forms will be available for purchase at the cost of D300.00 at all branches of The Gambia Police Force Cooperative Credit Union. Completed forms, along with copies of relevant supporting documents, must be returned to the same branch where they were obtained.Deadline of Submission: 05th January, 2026Warning: Any forgery or misrepresentation will lead to disqualification and may result in prosecution under the Criminal Offences Act, 2025For: Inspector General of Police GPF Recruitment and Selection Board   For further inquiries: 9968885Date: December 18, 2025

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  • GPF
  • December 19, 2025 02:31
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Unidentifeid corpse found on TUI flight from banjul to London

A press release from the office of the government spokesperson

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Media Advisory

President Barrow to Embark on Working Visit to DR CongoState House, Banjul, 27th February 2022The Office of the President informs the public that His Excellency, Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of The Gambia, will embark on a two-day working visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo.The visit will accord the President the opportunity to strengthen diplomatic and bilateral ties between The Gambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.President Barrow and the delegation will leave Banjul International Airport on Monday 28th February at 10:00 am.

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President Barrow Swears In New Public Service Commissioners, Emphasises Integrity and Reform

His Excellency Adama Barrow has presided over the swearing-in of three Commissioners of the Public Service Commission at a ceremony held at the State House.  Kebba Sarr, Edmond Snowby and Mariama Ndure-Njai took the three oaths of office,  allegiance and secrecy, and later signed the oath registry to officially confirm their new appointments at the ceremony conducted by the Secretary to the Cabinet Alieu Njai. Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Commissioner Kebba Sarr thanked the President for his trust and confidence in them, reassuring him that they will “live up to expectations.”  Mr Sarr also pledged to “uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.”The President H.E. Adama Barrow congratulated the three Commissioners on their appointments,  noting that the “Public Service Commission is one of the most important guardians of uprightness and good governance in the Republic,” adding that a “principled and capable civil service is the engine of national development.”The President advised  the Commissioners to take up the responsibility with the seriousness it deserves, adding that “expectations are high.”  President Barrow urged the PSC to “embrace transparency,  digitalisation and prioritise reform of the civil service to enhance efficiency,  discipline and professionalism.”

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ECOMIG SENEGALESE TROOPS BID FAREWELL: PRESIDENT BARROW PRAISES THEIR SERVICE

Eighty-seven personnel from Ecomig bid farewell after completing their tour of duty in Gambia under the ECOWAS Peacekeeping mandate. This contingent consists of Senegalese gendarmerie officers tasked with providing personal protection for the President and his immediate family.The President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Adama Barrow, extended his farewell to the 87 officers of the elite Group d'Intervention Gendarmerie Nationale. These men and women, who are responsible for the personal security of the President and his family, have concluded their year-long rotation and are now returning to their base in Senegal.During the farewell ceremony, President Barrow praised the Senegalese contingent for their discipline, hard work, and professionalism. He expressed gratitude to the Senegalese government for its support to The Gambia, emphasising that the two countries share similar socio-cultural values that transcend borders and colonial experiences.President Barrow personally thanked the Senegalese leader, Bashirou Jomaye Diakhar Faye, for his ongoing support. He concluded by expressing appreciation to the men and women for their service to The Gambia, highlighting that they have made a significant contribution to the country's democratic consolidation.Colonel Abdoulie Bah, Commander of the State Guard Battalion, spoke about the strong working relationship between the Gambian Forces and their Senegalese counterparts. He noted that this partnership has improved peace and security while fostering mutual understanding between the two forces.He also acknowledged the Senegalese officers for their dedication and professionalism, expressing his belief that the knowledge and experience they gained will advance their careers back home.Captain Amacodou Faye, Commander of the Gendarmerie Contingent, thanked President Barrow for the warm reception and the supportive working environment since their arrival in 2017. He also expressed gratitude to the State Guard Battalion for their collaboration, noting that the Gambian forces have been accommodating, professional, and dedicated. He reassured both the President and his counterparts that the Senegalese forces will continue to work closely with them to enhance peace and security in the country.At the end of the ceremony, all 87 officers of the Group d'Intervention Gendarmerie Nationale received certificates from the President in recognition of their service, dedication, and professionalism in The Gambia over the past year.The contingent is expected to depart the country in the coming days, to be replaced by another 78 men and women who will be deployed for another term of duty.

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GAMBIA'S GOVERNANCE RISES, 47.6 SCORE EARS TOP 10 SPOT IN AFRICA

The Gambia has achieved a significant milestone by being ranked among the top 10 best-governed countries in Africa, as highlighted in the 2026 World Economic Governance Index. The nation achieved an impressive governance score of 47.6, indicating notable progress in its governance framework. This advancement is particularly evident in key areas such as press freedom, where the country scored 65.4, indicating a growing environment for media independence and journalistic integrity. Additionally, political rights received a score of 54.8, reflecting enhanced democratic practices and increased citizen participation in governance.These positive developments are a testament to the efforts made by the government under the leadership of President Adama Barrow, whose administration has focused on reinforcing institutional frameworks, promoting transparency, and upholding the rule of law. The Gambia's commitment to improving governance and fostering a democratic society sets a positive example for other nations in the region, underscoring the potential for progress through dedicated leadership.

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  • GRTS
  • February 24, 2026 11:06
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OIC Chair Adama Barrow Urges Restraint Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

4 March 2026 — Banjul, The Gambia: His Excellency President Adama Barrow, in his capacity as Chair of the 15th Islamic Summit of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), expresses deep concern regarding the rising tensions in the Middle East following reports of military actions involving the United States of America and the State of Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as subsequent retaliatory responses affecting interests in the region.President Barrow notes with concern that the unfolding developments risk further heightening instability in an already fragile environment, with potentially serious consequences for civilian populations, critical infrastructure, and broader regional and global security.In this regard, he calls upon all parties to exercise the utmost restraint, avoid further escalation, and adhere fully to their obligations under the Charter of the United Nations and international law, including respect for the sovereignty of states and the protection of civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law.As Chair of the Islamic Summit, President Barrow reiterates the OIC’s longstanding and principled position that disputes should be addressed through peaceful means. He emphasises that dialogue, diplomacy, and constructive engagement remain the most viable avenues for reducing tensions and advancing sustainable peace.President Barrow, therefore, encourages all concerned parties to pursue diplomatic channels through the United Nations and other appropriate international and regional mechanisms. The OIC remains ready to support sincere efforts to de-escalate, mediate and achieve the peaceful resolution of disputes.The Republic of The Gambia reaffirms its enduring commitment to peace, justice, and the rule of international law. President Barrow further calls on the international community to intensify efforts toward restraint and renewed diplomacy to preserve regional stability and promote global peace.

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BENSOUDA BACKS GAMBIAN WRESTLING: HIGH COMMISSIONER PUSHES FOR UK TIES

Her Excellency Dr Fatou Bensouda, High Commissioner of The Gambia to the United Kingdom, accompanied Mr Matarr Saine, President of the Gambia Wrestling Association, to a maiden engagement with the British Wrestling Association at its headquarters in Manchester.H.E. Dr Bensouda, Deputy Head of Mission Mr Suntou Touray, and Mr Saine were received by Mr Craig Anthony, Chief Executive of the British Wrestling Association. Following opening courtesies, Mr Saine delivered a statement outlining the current landscape of Gambian wrestling, underscoring its significance as both a competitive sport and a pillar of socio-cultural heritage with a large grassroots following.Mr Saine emphasised that wrestling is deeply embedded in Gambian tradition and national identity, noting the pride the country takes in the achievements of its wrestlers on both domestic and international mats.Reflecting on the purpose of his visit, Mr Saine stated:“As we visit the British Wrestling Association today, I bring warm greetings from the people of The Gambia. Our patron is His Excellency Adama Barrow, President of The Gambia and a passionate supporter of wrestling, along with our Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Bakary Badjie.My aim is to explore opportunities to further develop our sport, enhance athlete performance, broaden coaching expertise, and foster cultural exchange between The Gambia and the United Kingdom, with whom we share strong diplomatic and cultural ties.”In his remarks, Mr Anthony expressed his delight at hosting the Gambian delegation and commended Mr Saine for initiating the collaboration. He noted that British wrestling continues to grow across disciplines and that a strategic partnership would strengthen technical development in both nations. Areas identified for cooperation include coach education, athlete welfare, performance training, technical skills development, and competition management.H.E. Dr Bensouda highlighted the unifying power of sport, particularly wrestling, which holds deep cultural roots in both societies. She also made a personal reference to her late father, who was a respected wrestling promoter in The Gambia, underscoring her longstanding connection to the sport.The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing in principle to formalise cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), scheduled to be signed next week at the Gambian High Commission in London.Also in attendance were Gambian community leader Mr Omar Keway Mbye, Mr Andreas Michaelas, Development Manager, and Mr Larence Dutton, Competition Manager of the British Wrestling Association.Deputy Head of Mission Mr Touray noted that enhanced collaboration in traditional and Olympic-style wrestling could strengthen bilateral relations, promote sports tourism, and encourage exchange programmes, including joint training camps and international competitions in The Gambia.26 February 2026End

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Barrow Facilitates Power Connectivity for 63 Communities: Advancing Towards Universal Electricity Access in The Gambia

In a strategic move to enhance energy accessibility, President Adama Barrow inaugurated the connection of 63 additional communities in the Lower River Region to the National electricity grid, concluding a comprehensive nine-day tour of the provinces. The project was launched in Sutukung village, marking a significant step toward The Gambia's goal of achieving universal electricity access by the year’s end.The President's visit commenced with a stop at the Central mosque for congregational prayers, reinforcing personal and political ties to the community where he had previously participated in the mosque's inauguration. Following this, he engaged with the community's spiritual leader, a figure held in high esteem by thousands in the region and beyond.The evening's official launch of the electricity project is targeted to benefit over 60 communities, allowing them unprecedented access to the national grid. Local leaders emphasised the significance of this development, framing it as a critical advancement that presents new economic and social opportunities for residents. National Assembly Member for Jarra East, Hon. Haruna Barry, articulated the transformative potential of electricity in facilitating rural development, expressing confidence in President Barrow's commitment to follow through on his promises ahead of the upcoming elections.Governor Seedy Lamin Bah of the Lower River Region highlighted that of the 170 villages in Jarra East, 63 have now received electrical connectivity, with plans in place to reach the remaining villages by year-end. He noted that the National Water and Electricity Company (Nawec) has progressed with infrastructure installations, including pole erection, positioning the project on schedule.Dr Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, outlined The Gambia's role as one of three West African nations implementing this regional electricity initiative, commending the country for its exemplary leadership and dedication to maintaining a stable socio-political environment, essential for the successful execution of the project.Additional endorsements came from Demba Jallow, High Commissioner of the Organisation for the Development of the Gambia River Basin (OMVG), and representatives from the World Bank, who praised President Barrow’s leadership, which has been pivotal in the project’s progress. They reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with the government and Nawec to achieve comprehensive electricity access.Nawec’s Managing Director, Galo Saidy, underscored the critical role of electricity in everyday life and pledged continued efforts to extend access to underserved communities. He advised on the safe usage of electrical supplies, emphasising the importance of community stewardship over infrastructure to mitigate risks associated with electrical hazards, vandalism, and theft.In his address, President Barrow reiterated electricity’s strategic significance in driving economic growth and unlocking opportunities, asserting that The Gambia is on course to fulfil its objective of universal access by the close of 2023, well in advance of the African Union's 2030 target.He praised the collaborative regional framework supported by ECOWAS and the World Bank and committed to ongoing efforts to secure funding to connect remaining communities. The President urged all stakeholders to work collectively to protect this national asset from vandalism.The ceremonial switching on of the power in Jarra Sutukung signified the official project launch, followed by a celebratory lighting event in Barrow Kunda, where community members expressed their excitement and gratitude. This positive reaction foreshadows similar scenes in other communities along the Trans Gambia Highway, as excitement over electricity access permeates villages like Dongoroba and Buithe, marking a transformative moment in their developmental trajectories.

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