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WESTMINSTER FOUNDATION FOR DEMOCRACY LAUNCHES COST OF POLITICS RESEARCH

The Westminster Foundation for Democracy has launched a research report on the cost of politics in The Gambia, highlighting the challenges faced by women and the need for greater accountability in campaign financing. The launch event, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, brought together politicians and civil society members to discuss the findings and implications of the research.The research, conducted ahead of the 2026 presidential election, reveals that the financial burden and societal issues are significant barriers to women's participation in politics. The study also raises concerns about the source of campaign financing for political actors, citing the risk of state capture due to private sponsorship.Tabu Njie Sarr, Country Director for the Westminster Foundation for Democracy, emphasised the importance of exploring the cost of politics and promoting women's participation in decision-making processes. Babucarr Nyang, a member of the research team, presented the findings, highlighting the need for greater transparency and accountability in campaign financing.The report's launch was officiated by Hon. Kebba Tumani Sanneh, National Assembly Member for Foni Jarrol and member of the Gender Committee of the National Assembly. A panel discussion featuring veteran politicians, including Halifa Sallah and Fatoumata Jallow-Tambaajang, provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for women's participation in politics.The research outcome is now publicly available, providing a critical resource for stakeholders to promote transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in The Gambia's political processes.

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OUATTARA SWORN IN FOR FOURTH TERM AS IVORY COAST PRESIDENT

President Alassane Ouattara has taken the oath of office for a fourth five-year term as President of Côte d'Ivoire, following a landslide victory in October's presidential election where he secured nearly 90% of the vote. The inauguration ceremony, held at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan, was attended by 11 African leaders, including President Adama Barrow of The Gambia, and delegations from 50 countries.With his left hand on the Constitution and his right hand raised, the 83-year-old President Ouattara vowed to uphold the constitution, maintain national unity, and protect the rights and liberties of citizens. He was decorated with the country's highest honour, the National Order, by Grand Chancellor Ally Coulibaly.The inauguration ceremony, held at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan, was attended by 11 African leaders, including President Adama Barrow of The Gambia.In his inaugural address, President Ouattara expressed gratitude to the Ivorian people for electing him for another term and pledged to continue his program of national consolidation and development, prioritising women and youth. He emphasised his government's commitment to economic transformation, agricultural modernisation, and building a united and prosperous nation.The swearing-in ceremony is seen as a consolidation of democracy in Côte d'Ivoire, a country regarded as a beacon of peace and stability in West Africa. The presence of ECOWAS leaders at the ceremony underscores the sub-regional body's commitment to defending and strengthening democracy in the region.

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WORLD BANK EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LAUDS GAMBIA'S PROGRESS, ANNOUNCES KEY INVESTMENTS

The Vice President of The Gambia, His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow, has received the Executive Director of the World Bank Group, Dr. ZarauDrbwe, for a crucial meeting to discuss the country's development progress and future collaborations. The meeting, attended by key officials from the Ministry of Finance and the World Bank, highlighted the strong partnership between The Gambia and the World Bank Group.The Gambia is set to host the next major African Caucus Meeting for the IMF/World Bank in 2026, following its assumption of the Chairmanship in late 2025. The meeting will focus on themes such as infrastructure, human capital, and green assets for sustainable growth, building on discussions from the 2025 Bangui meeting.Dr Zarau Kibwe, accompanied by the Hon. Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Seedy Keita, Permanent Secretary Mod A.K. Secka, the Country Director of the World Bank, Franklin Mutahakana, and Senior officials from both the Ministry of finance and the World Bank Group.The World Bank Country Director, Franklin Mutahakana, emphasised the importance of the 2026 Caucus meeting in advancing strategies for the continent's economic future. Dr. ZarauDrbwe expressed satisfaction with the progress of project implementation across The Gambia, citing the USET Complex in Brikama as a model for educational reform in Africa.The Gambia's Chairmanship of the African Caucus is expected to present a unified African voice on global financial reforms, advocate for increased funding, and foster sustainable development. The World Bank's top executives' visit reinforces the strong partnership between The Gambia and the World Bank Group, with discussions focusing on emerging opportunities and avenues for deeper collaboration.

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PRESIDENT BARROW ATTENDS INAUGURATION OF PRESIDENT ALASSANE OUATTARA IN ABIDJAN

His Excellency President Adama Barrow joined regional leaders in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire on Monday to witness the inauguration of President Alassane Ouattara for a fourth term.President Ouattara pledged to uphold the nation's constitution, emphasising democracy, stability, and peace. He outlined plans for modernisation, institutional development, and the empowerment of women and youth, highlighting skills acquisition and domestically driven economic growth.President Barrow's attendance reinforces The Gambia's commitment to regional cooperation and African economic integration.Regional leaders present included Presidents John Dramani Mahama (Ghana), Bassirou Diomaye Faye (Senegal), Julius Maada Bio (Sierra Leone), Brice Nguéma (Gabon), Mohamed Ould Ghazouani (Mauritania), and João Lourenço (Angola).

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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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PRESIDENT BARROW HOSTS STATE BANQUET FOR GABONESE PRESIDENT NGUEMA

The President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, hosted a state banquet in honour of visiting Gabonese President, His Excellency General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, at State House.The banquet, attended by Gambian and Gabonese officials and invited dignitaries, marked the climax of President Nguema’s four-day visit to The Gambia.President Nguema was accompanied by First Lady Her Excellency Zita Oligui Nguema. They were received by President Barrow and First Lady Her Excellency Fatou Bah Barrow.The evening featured a toast to the enduring relationship between Gabon and The Gambia, followed by a dinner of traditional Gambian cuisine. Guests were entertained by a kora troupe and cultural performances showcasing Mandinka, Serer, and Jola music and dance.

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NPP AND GDC SIGN MOU, FORM ALLIANCE AHEAD OF DECEMBER 5 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

The ruling National People’s Party and the opposition Gambia Democratic Congress on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding formalising their alliance ahead of the December 5th Presidential election.The signing ceremony at State House drew hundreds of NPP and GDC supporters who gathered to witness what both parties described as a historic political realignment.NPP National President Musa Drammeh and GDC National President Momodou Pateh Bah signed the MOU on behalf of their parties. The event was witnessed by Hon. Sidi Njai and Momodou A.S. Mboob.Party leaders President Adama Barrow of the NPP and Hon. Mama Kandeh of the GDC looked on as the document was signed amid jubilation, ending years of rivalry between the two parties.While the specific terms of the MOU remain confidential, both parties committed to work together to support the candidature of President Adama Barrow in the upcoming election.Senior officials said negotiations had been ongoing for months to reach a workable agreement based on compromise and national interest.Hon. Seedy SK. Njie, described as one of the key architects of the rapprochement, thanked President Barrow, Hon. Kandeh, and senior executives of both parties for their role in the talks.GDC senior members including National Women’s Leader Ndey Fatou Jallow, KM Desk Officer Haruna Jallow, Jarra Ndaw, and Momodou Bobb endorsed the agreement, calling it consultative and reflective of the party’s will.GDC National President Momodou Pateh Bah said the party’s core values of democracy, inclusive development, and good governance remain intact.  “We came in good faith. We believe in partnership and collaboration. This MOU will not erase the party’s identity,” Bah said.NPP National President Musa Drammeh thanked stakeholders for their work and praised both leaders for “putting The Gambia first.” He urged supporters to ignore critics seeking to sow division and vowed the NPP would uphold the MOU to secure victory for the alliance.NPP Women’s Mobilizer Aja Maimuna Baldeh welcomed the GDC “with open arms,” describing Hon. Kandeh as a patriot who would help deliver a landslide for President Barrow.Hon. Mama Kandeh defended the alliance as a decision driven by national interest.  “This alliance is not a betrayal of our principles or a compromise of our values. We have chosen to place national interest above party interest,” Kandeh said.He reaffirmed his commitment to the alliance, expressed confidence in a landslide victory, and thanked President Barrow, whom he described as a longtime friend.President Barrow welcomed the GDC to the alliance, saying it reflects a shared responsibility to maintain peace and development despite political differences.  He described the NPP-GDC pact as “the beginning of a new dawn” that will “redraw the political map and usher in a new era of politics in The Gambia.”The President also spoke of his longstanding relationship with Hon. Kandeh dating back to childhood, and called for unity in the interest of the country.President Barrow expressed confidence in the broader 8-party alliance backing him and predicted a landslide victory in December. He further urged his political godfather to join the alliance and endorse his candidature.President Barrow and Hon. Kandeh exited State House to cheers from supporters.The alliance comes just four months before the Presidential election and marks a major shift in The Gambia’s political landscape. As parties continue to realign, attention now turns to how the NPP-GDC partnership will shape the race to December 5.

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GOVERNMENT, WORLD BANK DISBURSE OVER D83M TO 25 TVET INSTITUTIONS UNDER SIE FUND

President Adama Barrow on Tuesday presided over the award of more than D83 million to 25 Technical and Vocational Education and Training institutions under the Skills, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Fund at a ceremony held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre.The SIE Fund is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology and the World Bank, implemented under the Resilience, Inclusive Skills and Employment Project.The awards are aimed at strengthening TVET institutions, improving the quality of training, expanding access, and boosting the employability of young people, women, and persons with disabilities.The Fund focuses on key sectors including Agriculture, Engineering, Tourism, ICT, Business, and Creative and Performing Arts.Speaking at the ceremony, World Bank Country Representative Dr Franklin Mutahakana said this was the second award under the World Bank-funded project.“This is evidence of The Gambia’s growing commitment to investing in young people, who constitute 63% of the population,” Dr Mutahakana said. “Youth have tremendous potential and are eager to learn and work. This initiative will create pathways for them to acquire skills and enhance their productivity.”President Barrow said the awards will have far-reaching consequences for TVET institutions and the thousands of young people who will benefit directly.“Beyond strengthening and modernising these institutions, the awards will expand opportunities for our youth, particularly women and persons with disabilities,” the President said.He commended the RISE project for its impact on national development and for transforming the lives and livelihoods of young people. He urged beneficiaries to seize the opportunity to contribute to nation building.The President described TVET as a critical pillar for employment creation, enterprise development, industrial growth, and social inclusion.Under Window 1, 25 TVET institutions received over D33 million in grants for institutional improvement. The funding will support infrastructure, equipment, governance systems, program quality, and overall institutional performance.Under Window 2, 18 institutions received more than D49 million to train young people and women in labour market-relevant TVET programs.Student beneficiary Mathew Badjie, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, expressed gratitude to the government and the World Bank for the support.“This intervention has had a direct impact on young people,” Badjie said. “We are determined to honour this investment through hard work and service to the nation.”The award ceremony marks another major milestone in the government’s commitment to building a skilled, productive, and resilient young population to drive sustainable development.

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THE GAMBIA AND GABON SIGN 5 AGREEMENTS TO BOOST TRADE, DIPLOMACY AND AGRICULTURE

The Gambia and Gabon have signed five agreements to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, diplomacy, and agriculture.The signing followed a three-day visit by Gabonese President His Excellency General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema to The Gambia, aimed at deepening bilateral ties. Both leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to African unity, Pan-Africanism, and South-South cooperation.President Oligui Nguema was received with full honours on arrival at State House for talks with President Adama Barrow.The two leaders held private discussions for nearly an hour before presiding over an expanded meeting with senior officials from both sides. They reaffirmed their joint commitment to strengthen Banjul-Libreville relations.President Barrow welcomed the Gabonese delegation, describing the visit as “an important milestone” in the friendly relations between The Gambia and Gabon.He commended President Nguema’s leadership, saying it has made Gabon a bastion of democracy, peace, and development in Africa.  “The Gambia shares these values and is committed to working with other African countries, including Gabon, to strengthen cooperation in all areas of development,” President Barrow said.In his remarks, President Oligui Nguema thanked President Barrow for the warm hospitality.  “The Gambia and Gabon have dynamic and positive relations. I look forward to strengthening this partnership for the mutual benefit of our two countries,” he said.The Gabonese leader noted that both countries share common positions on many issues, and called for joint action to tackle piracy, illicit trafficking, and other illegal activities in West and Central Africa.The two leaders presided over the signing of five cooperation instruments. The agreements were signed by The Gambia’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dawda Jallow, and Gabon’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Marie-Édith Tassyla-Ye-Doumbeneny.The agreements are:1. General Cooperation Agreement between The Gambia and Gabon2. Agreement Establishing the Gambia-Gabon Joint Commission 3. Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemptions for holders of diplomatic and service passports4. Memorandum of Understanding on Political and Diplomatic Consultations between the two Foreign Ministries5. Joint Communiqué reaffirming commitment to deepen cooperationA joint communique read by Ministers Jallow and Tassyla-Ye-Doumbeneny described the visit as successful, saying it has laid a “solid and concrete framework” for partnership.The communique reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to continue dialogue and consultations to deepen cooperation in education, health, agriculture, and infrastructure. It also pledged to increase exchanges to promote peace, African unity, Pan-African solidarity, and South-South cooperation.At the end of the meeting, President Barrow saw off his counterpart, who proceeded with other engagements, including a visit to the Katchikally Crocodile Pool in Bakau.

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NYIMANSATA JAWNEH KEEPS GAMBIA'S ATHLETICS HOPES ALIVE IN GLASGOW

Team Gambia endured mixed fortunes on the athletics track at the Glasgow Games today, with Nyimasata Jawneh delivering the highlight by advancing to the semi-finals.It was a day of highs and lows for the national team.Nyimasata Jawneh produced a composed and determined performance to book her place in the semi-finals, keeping Gambian medal hopes alive.Her qualification stood out on an otherwise challenging day for Team Gambia.Lamin Camara looked to have secured progress in the men’s 200m after clocking an impressive 21.19 seconds. Isatou Sey also delivered a strong run and appeared set to advance.But celebrations were cut short after both athletes were disqualified for lane infringements.The disappointment continued as Ebrima Camara and Alieu Joof bowed out in the opening rounds, bringing their campaigns to an early end.Despite the setbacks, Head Coach [First Name] Sallah praised the athletes’ commitment and determination.She acknowledged the disqualifications were tough to take, but said the performances showed the growing standard of Gambian athletics.  “The experience gained on this international stage will be invaluable as the athletes continue their development,” Coach Sallah said.With Jawneh still in contention, Team Gambia will now turn its focus to the semi-finals, where she will carry the nation’s hopes.Jawneh will be aiming to secure a place in the final as Team Gambia looks to end its athletics campaign on a high.  For the rest of the team, Glasgow has provided valuable experience and further proof of the country’s growing potential on the international stage.

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DR. FATOU BENSOUDA NAMED GNOC GOODWILL SPORTS AMBASSADOR

The Gambia National Olympic Committee has appointed Her Excellency Dr Fatou Bom Bensouda, High Commissioner of The Gambia to the United Kingdom, as its Goodwill Sports Ambassador.The appointment was announced during the Gambia Day Celebration in Glasgow, Scotland, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to Gambian sport, international diplomacy, and the promotion of Olympic values.A former national volleyball player and ex-Female Vice President of the GNOC, Dr Bensouda was praised for her leadership in promoting women in sport and advancing athlete welfare, integrity, and sports development.In her new role, she will help raise The Gambia's profile on the international sporting stage, strengthen partnerships with global sports organisations, and promote sports diplomacy to support national development.The GNOC states that the appointment reflects Dr Bensouda’s distinguished service to sport and her ongoing commitment to inspiring future generations of Gambian athletes and sports leaders.  

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