The head of the ECOWAS Election Observer Mission to the recently held National Assembly election Hon. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, praised the conduct of the polls calling them “peaceful and credible.”Dr. Chambas was at the State House to brief His Excellency, President Adama Barrow of his mission’s observation and findings during the elections. Dr. Chambas described The Gambia as a good example to the rest of the sub-region in the conduct of elections, stating; “The Gambia should be proud of itself”, for maintaining a reputation as a peaceful people, a peaceful country who have delivered a peaceful and credible election.
Continue Reading >>H.E President Adama Barrow’s Congratulatory Remarks on the National Assembly Elections Fellow Gambians,After weeks of intense political activities in the country, I am happy to congratulate all Gambians on the successful and peaceful conclusion of the National Assembly elections held on 9th April 2022. Exercising their rights in what was clearly very keenly contested legislative elections, Gambians made their choice of National Assembly representatives from an unprecedented number of candidates from political parties to Independent candidates. On behalf of my government and family, and on my own behalf, I express deep gratitude to all the peace-loving Gambians who contributed to this historic achievement. With warm sentiments, I also congratulate the Independent Electoral Commission, the security services, political parties, Observers, the media and all other stakeholders for the roles they played throughout the electoral process. The election of diverse political party representatives and independent candidates from different backgrounds is an indication of a vibrant democracy. Yet again, Gambians have fulfilled a vital constitutional mandate in an amicable manner, thus demonstrating that our democracy is thriving. It was another test of the credibility and viability of our institutions and the mechanisms and processes we are strongly determined to safeguard and strengthen. To our credit, as Gambians, we have got over the event with remarkable success. Fellow Gambians, during the political campaigns leading to the 2021 Presidential election and the recently concluded National Assembly elections, the citizens of this nation loudly expressed and showed their passion for efficient public services that would improve their lives and livelihoods. They have demonstrated the desire for stability, sustained good governance, and infrastructural development to boost the performance of all sectors. It is clear that our people wish to maintain an environment that is peaceful, stable, and secure enough for all citizens, which is one of the top priorities of my government. These aspirations can be achieved much faster if we work as a united force. In doing so, we need to be service-oriented and committed to the betterment of the people, strive to advance and strengthen our democracy, and observe the principles of peace and justice for all. These are essential elements for good governance and progress, which we cannot ignore. Ladies and gentlemen, based on party affiliation and trust for some independent candidates, Gambians have duly elected their representatives; none-the-less, we expect all the successful candidates to work together as a legislative body to promote and serve the national interest. At this point, I must congratulate all the successful candidates on their victories, and call on the remaining contestants to join forces with us and work in the best interest of the nation. The fact that you were eligible to contest is an achievement in itself. So, bravo to everyone! In a democracy, we must embrace diversity, and it is significant that, as a country, the Legislature works independently; however, it has to be in partnership with the Executive and the Judiciary to ensure that, jointly, we serve and fulfil the development aspirations of our citizens, within a just environment. Ladies and gentlemen, I expect all Gambians and non-Gambians alike to realise that these are challenging times. This is a period when global politics and instability continue to impact negatively on our local context. We must be ready, therefore, to take up the challenge of working harder, re-dedicating ourselves to duty, and committing enough time and resources to serve the nation, both in the public and private sectors. We are blessed with a youthful population and should explore and utilise its potential to the fullest. I will not conclude without emphasising the need for us to continue to nurture our democracy, protect all rights, and respect the freedom of association and speech, as required by law. As mature and cultured people, we must realise that, once elections end, we are duty-bound to unite and serve the country as one people. Whenever we exercise our political rights and compete in national elections, we do so as actors with different viewpoints, and not as enemies. It is now time to put behind us the divisive politics and hate speeches that seem to divide the nation. This is the time to re-energise ourselves for nation building so that every citizen becomes a winner. To reassure everyone, regardless of the results of the elections, the affairs of the entire country and the welfare of every citizen and resident here will remain central in my concerns and focus. Hand in hand, let us all move on.I pray for the continued peace, progress, prosperity, and security of our people. Long live The Gambia! I thank you for your attention.
Continue Reading >>Gambians have voted in a new legislature, thirty-three of them for the first time. NPP won 18 seats, UDP 15, NRP 4, PDOIS 2, and APRC 2. An unprecedented 12 seats are independent candidates. GDC, GMC, CA, and NUP did not win any seats. Out of the 19 women candidates, only three were elected
Continue Reading >>Gambians are voting to elect national assembly members of the 6th legislature five months after the Presidential elections. An unprecedented Two hundred and forty-six candidates are vying for fifty-three seats in the National Assembly. Eighty of them are independent candidates. Polls opened at 8 am and are expected to close at 5 pm. Reports across the country indicate that voting is peaceful but voter turnout is low compared to the presidential elections. President Adama Cast his ballot at the McCarthy Square in the Banjul Central constituency. He called on eligible Gambians to turn up to the polling stations and vote peacefully.
Continue Reading >>The Independent Electoral Commission on Wednesday conducted a briefing for election observer groups accredited to observe the National Assembly elections on Saturday. The briefing held in Bijilo discussed the modalities and preparedness of the election officials to conduct a hitch-free election. In his statement, the Chairman of IEC Alieu Momarr Njai, gave a rundown of the nomination process recording 251 candidates contesting the April 9 polls. Chairman Njie further informed the observers that measures are in place to ensure smooth, free, and credible elections. The Deputy inspector general of police Inspector Momodou Sowe gave an analysis of the current security.
Continue Reading >>The Center for Policy, Research, and Strategic Studies CEPRASS in partnership with the national endowment for democracy on Wednesday convened a day's opinion sharing session. The study on the country’s post-presidential election was shared with journalists, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders. The forum was held in Bakau. Speaking at the gathering CEPRASS executive director Lamin Dampha gave a background of the project and said opinion polls are useful in making decisions on critical issues. The president of Gambia Press Union Muhammed MS Bah dilated on the importance of media in the dissemination of results on opinion polls.The polls can be accessed on the CEPRASS website: www.ceprass.gm
Continue Reading >>The IEC Regional Office in Banjul has received nominations bids from seven aspiring candidates for the April 9th National Assembly elections. Three aspirants from PDOIS, three from UDP and one from PPP have successfully submitted nomination papers to the IEC IN Banjul on Thursday. They include Ousman Sillah of PDOIS for Banjul North who is seeking a second term in office. Baboucarr Mboge and Mansour Foon of PDOIS are vying for the parliamentary seats in Banjul Central and South respectively. Muhammed Ndow of the PPP is also contesting for the Banjul Central seat. Thursday's nominations process ended with the United Democratic Party (UDP). The party has chosen Momodou Cherno Jallow for Banjul Central, Momodou Lamin B. Bah for Banjul North and Yaya Kuyateh for Banjul South. Similar engagements are also taking place in all the other administrative regions.
Continue Reading >>The Independent Electoral Commission officials at Brikama have rejected the nomination of Momodou sabally for the Busumbala constituency. This is the first time an aspiring candidate’s nomination is rejected on the spot in the run-up to the 2022 parliamentary elections. The IEC rejected Sabally’s nomination citing section 90 (1) (e) of Gambia’s 1997 Constitution. It states that “A person found guilty of abuse of office, corruption, or any offense connected with public elections by a court or anyone found by a report of a commission of inquiry to be incompetent to hold public office because of having acquired assets unlawfully or defrauded the State would also be disqualified”It could be recalled that the Janneh Commission indicted Mr. Sabally for aiding and abetting the theft of D14, 686,500 in relation to Carnegie Mineral accounts.
Continue Reading >>Five National People's Party and one independent aspiring candidate filed nomination bids on day five of nominations in Kanifing Municipality. NPP's Amadou S. Leigh is vying for the Serrekunda constituency, Assan Dampha for Bakau and a former parliamentarian for LK Sabiji Saikou Marong who is seeking re-election submitted necessary documents to IEC officials in Serrekunda. The fifth day of nominations also saw NPP aspiring candidates Fatoumatta K. Jawara of Talinding, Mustapha Lowe of Serrekunda West constituency, and one independent candidate, Ansu Camara of Serrekunda East had their credentials accepted by the Independent Electoral Commission's returning officers in Serrekunda. Another independent candidate Ibrahim Savage was asked to return on Friday after failing to present some major documents.The documents are pending scrutiny after which IEC's Joseph Colley says the aspirants will be given their acceptance letter by Thursday if all their documents are intact after the verification.Speaking to the press after submitting their credentials, all the candidates say they will win in April parliamentary elections.
Continue Reading >>The Leader of the Gambia Moral Congress (GMC) Mai Ahmed Fatty has presented his nomination papers to the Independent Electoral Commission in Basse Mansajang in URR. Mr. Fatty is contesting for the Wuli West National Assembly seat. He told waiting journalists that he is the choice of the people. Ebrima Conteh of the GMC also presented his documents for Wuli East Constituency. Mr. Conteh said was contesting because the people of his constituency were neglected for so many years. He promised to bring development to his constituency if given the chance. Meanwhile, IEC officials handed over an acceptance receipt to Hon Alhagie H.Sowe of The Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC).
Continue Reading >>Only one aspiring candidate from the lower Saloum Constituency appeared before election officials in the central river region on nomination day one. The All people's Party's Ebou K. Gaye arrived at the regional Independent electoral office to present his credentials for the April 6th National assembly elections. Gaye's nomination papers were quickly accepted, allowing IEC officials to vet his credentials pending a public scrutiny. APRC and ANRD party were also expected to present Nomination bids but the two parties didn't file any candidate in the Central River Region.After presenting his documents, Gaye told waiting journalists that he is the right candidate to represent Lower Saloum Constituency. He claimed to have the will and capacity needed for the job.
Continue Reading >>The 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.
Continue Reading >>The Vice President His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow has on behalf of the President H.E Adama Barrow presided over the launch of The Gambia's National Misinformation and Disinformation Response Centre, a landmark AI-powered government platform for detecting and responding to Misinformation.” It is established under the Ministry of Information and funded by ECOWAS. This move by the Gambia government is meant to equip citizens with critical tools needed to navigate an increasingly complex information landscape. The centre has been described as the first of its kind in West Africa. Vice President, H.E Mohammed B.S Jallow who delivered the launch statement on behalf of the President H.E Adama Barrow, said the government chooses not to control or censor but to ensure clarity and truth within the information ecosystem. (Vice President, H.E Mohammed B.S Jallow)“We know what it means to live under a government that controls information as a weapon. We know what it costs us. President Barrow's government has chosen a different path: not control, but clarity. Not censorship, but truth,” He said.The world is at a critical crossroads with the power to spread information enabling new forms of autonomy, and the potential to abuse those powers continues to rise daily.False narratives continue to circulate across social and mainstream media platforms with information weaponised to manipulate public opinion, undermine institutions, and at times, “incite division in societies” that have long been united. Vice President Jallow said, the scrutiny of the centre will cut across. “Let me be clear on that last point. No public figure, no institution, and no arm of government is above the scrutiny of this Centre.”“If a video circulates claiming to show a minister saying something he did not say, the NMDRC will investigate it. If a statement is falsely attributed to the President, the NMDRC will address it. That is not a courtesy we extend to the public. It is a commitment we make to them,” VP Jallow added. His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow further commended ECOWAS for the financial support that made this dream a reality, saying it is only fitting that the regional body invests in work that will serve the sub-region. Dr Omar Alieu Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, commended President Barrow's government for the foresight, describing Misinformation as a “key driver of insecurity” that he said continues to “undermine trust in governments.”Amran Gaye, the man behind the AI-infrastructure, conducted a visual demonstration before the audience, showcasing how the tool can be deployed to verify Misinformation and Disinformation, saying, it is built on three pillars to “detect, verify and respond” to fake information. This national disinformation and misinformation response centre puts the Gambia on a robust footing to combat fake news, ensuring leverage for the public and press to verify information.The turnout at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre was a clear justification of how the government, civil society, the international partners and the citizenry cherish this landmark AI-powered technology platform built by Dundal Systems, a Gambian technology company.
Continue Reading >>𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐋, 𝟐𝟔𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad wishes to inform the public that the Gambian Mission in Mauritania has received confirmed information regarding the migrant vessel that departed from Bakau on 18th April 2026.The vessel has docked in Mauritania, and the Embassy is currently working closely with the Mauritanian authorities to effectively manage the situation.Several individuals from the vessel have been admitted to hospital facilities, where they are receiving the necessary medical care. Others have been escorted to a designated centre, where they are being provided with first aid, food, and essential supplies.Embassy officials are actively engaged in verifying the nationalities of all individuals on board. This process is critical to facilitating appropriate communication, consular assistance, and onward support.The Embassy is working closely with the relevant authorities to ascertain all relevant details and will continue to provide timely updates as verified information becomes available.The Ministry kindly requests the public’s patience and understanding as efforts remain focused on the ongoing humanitarian response and verification process.The Ministry takes this opportunity to commend the Gambian Mission in Mauritania for its swift response and continued dedication to safeguarding the lives and welfare of Gambians throughout their migration journey. 𝐄𝐍𝐃.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>The Government of The Gambia has officially commissioned the National Misinformation and Disinformation Response Centre, the first of its kind in the West African sub-region. The landmark initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, was launched at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo. The centre is designed to detect, analyse and respond to false information, harmful narratives and digital manipulation, while promoting credible and fact-based communication.Cordu L. Jabang, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Information, described the centre as a “strategic national asset” that she said will “strengthen public trust, protect democratic institutions and improve information integrity across the country.”She thanked development partners and stakeholders for supporting the “government’s vision” to build a safer digital information environment.Amran Gaye, the Chief Executive Officer and Lead Architect of Dundal Systems - A Gambian technology company, delivered a presentation and live demonstration of the platform’s capabilities. (From left: Cordu L. Jabang, the Permanent Secretary - Ministry of Information, Amran Gaye - CEO and Lead Architect of Dundal Systems, Dr Ismaila Ceesay - Minister for Information, Aisha Davies - Director, Department of Information Services.)He showcased advanced Artificial Intelligence tools that can monitor online conversations, identify misinformation trends in real time, verify content and support rapid response mechanisms. Gaye said the technology has been “tailored to address local realities while meeting international standards.”Dr Omar Alieu Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, whose institution funded the initiative, hailed the launch as a “major milestone” for regional cooperation.He noted that misinformation and disinformation remain growing threats to “peace, democracy and security in West Africa,” adding that The Gambia has “set an example” for the region. Dr Touray reaffirmed ECOWAS's commitment to supporting member states in strengthening “digital resilience and strategic communication.”Dr Ismaila Ceesay, the Minister for Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, said the centre demonstrates the government’s commitment to “transparency, accountability and responsible communication.”He stated that the facility will serve as a hub for “research, early warning, media literacy and coordinated responses” to false narratives capable of “undermining national unity and development.” Dr Ceesay urged citizens, journalists and institutions to work together in promoting “truth and combating harmful misinformation.”The commissioning ceremony brought together government officials, diplomats, civil society representatives, media practitioners and development partners.With the launch of the centre, The Gambia becomes a regional pioneer in institutional efforts to confront the rising challenge of misinformation and disinformation in the digital age.
Continue Reading >>In a historic moment for the people of Kiang, President H.E Adama Barrow, on Saturday, officially inaugurated the 91km road linking dozens of communities in Kiang. The road project, funded at D1.2 billion, is the first of its kind in Kiang and marks a turning point for the community, which has grappled with decades of isolation and exclusion. This project is expected to open up the region to the outside world, attract investment and enhance economic opportunities.The inauguration ceremony was held at Jiffarong and attracted thousands of people who mobbed the President's motorcade as it entered the village and escorted it to the grounds amidst great fanfare. The President, flanked by the first lady, Governor Sidi Lamin Bah and other officials, then cut the ribbons at Sankandi, marking the official inauguration of the 91km Kiang Roads Project.Speaking at the ceremony, community leaders described the project as a “historic milestone that has transformed Kiang West.” The Alkalo of Jifarong Babanding Kinteh, the Chief of Kiang West, the youth and women's representatives at the constituency and regional levels, Fabou Sanneh and Jalika Janneh, all extended profound gratitude to President Barrow for fulfilling his promises to the people of Kiang. They recounted those difficult days when residents struggled to travel on the road, the hardships they encountered and the delays they faced, describing these as “challenging moments in the history of the area.”The speakers reassured the President that they will mobilise their constituents to “massively vote for him in December as a gesture of gratitude” for these groundbreaking developments.Sidi Lamin Bah, the Governor of the Lower River Region, underscored President Barrow's commitment to infrastructural development, noting that the Kiang West road project “will lift residents out of poverty.”The Governor appealed to the people of Kiang to “embrace the government” and “renounce the opposition,” arguing that decades of opposition support have not “brought any tangible benefits for the region.”Sulayman Sumareh, the Director General of the National Roads Authority, disclosed that this road project has been designed and constructed to “meet international standards of quality and durability.” The NRA boss said this road project brings “immense benefits” for the people as it traverses through all 33 villages in the area.The inauguration ceremony also witnessed the defection of 140 opposition supporters into the NPP. Omar Drammeh, speaking on behalf of the defectors, said they were motivated by President Barrow's “development track record, which has transformed the country.” He promised a new chapter of political realignment in Kiang as more people embrace the ruling party. Delivering his inauguration statement, President Barrow said his government is guided by the principle of “inclusive development” to ensure access to basic infrastructure and services.He noted that Kiang West has long been “neglected by previous governments” which he said “makes life difficult for residents.” This broad project, the President added, marks a turning point as it will enhance access and create unlimited opportunities.President Barrow described the new road as a “permanent symbol of transformational vision, determination and unity,” reassuring that his government will “continue to invest in road construction” with plans to undertake another 700km of road in the future. These projects, the President said are all funded from the domestic budget, with over “D18.5 billion” already spent on road projects since 2017.The President finally appealed to the people of Kiang to “support his government” to benefit from more development projects in the future.The foundation for the construction of this important road was laid in 2021, in what has become one of the most ambitious projects undertaken by the Barrow administration which places infrastructural development as a “key development priority.”This road serves as a lifeline for the people of Kiang West linking 33 villages across this vast region, who depend on it for access to other areas.The people of Kiang rejoiced over what they believed was a new chapter in their lives, marked by decades of isolation and exclusion, which made basic travel for residents a nightmare.
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