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The Gambia Attains IMF Final Assessment

President Adama Barrow Friday received the IMF Mission Chief, Mr Ivohasina Razafimahefa, who briefed him that The Gambia, for the first time, reached the final stage of its IMF programme on a positive note.Receiving the briefing with delight, The President said that despite the challenges in managing citizens' expectations, his office and the government, by extension, took strategic decisions to ensure fiscal discipline to manage public finances better. He emphasised that they would do everything possible to improve the country's scorecard. "At times, you take difficult decisions and do the right thing for the good of the majority," President Barrow stressed. He congratulated his economic team and thanked the IMF for the guidance and support, adding that the transition was difficult with high expectations from the citizens.The President pledged that his government would remain steadfast to maximise the social and economic scorecard for The Gambia. Acknowledging the deficit areas impacted by the outbreak of COVID-19 and the War in Ukraine, the President looks forward to more flexibility in the following programme cycle to address the areas they have deficits.The President indicated that his administration prioritises digitalisation and e-governance to increase revenue collection and reduce corruption. He referenced the digitalisation of tax collection and performance contracts with SOEs as necessary domestic revenue collection measures to fast-track development examples.President Barrow cited electricity and infrastructure as the key to the country's advancement as the government works towards its target for universal access to electricity in remote areas.The IMF Chief of Mission expressed confidence to proceed with a new country programme as it is the first time The Gambia has reached a final assessment programme. He gave an outline of the findings of his mission, stating the economic growth improved even though it had not reached the pre- covid level due to external shocks such as the post covid recovery. He pointed out the positive trends in tourism, remittance, and private and public construction works as good signs. The IMF Mission Chief noted the impact of global events on food prices and fuel, flexible exchange rates, and cross-border trade.On the challenges, it was noted that inflation is high and public debt is still flat at 80% of GDP, but it recorded that foreign reserves and credit to the private sector are on the right path, with interest rates decreasing. Appreciating the government's efforts for economic growth, Mr Razafimahefa concluded, "The Gambia can be a model of a success story."The Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, the Central Bank of The Gambia Governor, and other senior public officials accompanied the IMF Mission to the State House.

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President Barrow inaugurates New Building at Brikama Market

President Adama Barrow Monday inaugurated the newly constructed Brikama market amidst fanfare and jubilation, replacing the old one engulfed by an inferno in late 2022. In his inaugural statement, President Barrow said the damage was heart-breaking, especially for the new business that had just been established. ‘’Upon receiving the news, my government promised to rebuild the whole market. It is most gratifying that, despite all the global economic crises, the Government was able to fully fund the first phase of the Market Project at an estimated cost of thirty-eight and a half million Dalasi (GMD38.5 million),’’ he noted. Citing the recently inaugurated North Bank Roads Project, the President said the opening of the new market is a testament to his government’s conviction to provide for Gambians basic services that will enable them to live dignified lives. President Barrow further stated his government’s commitment to revitalising the economy by improving businesses and business centres, adding,  ‘’already, we have built markets in Farafenni, Soma, Basse, and Latri-kunda. These centres facilitate trade and commerce, enhancing income creation for businesses within business-friendly environments.’’The President thanked the stakeholders for the speedy and efficient completion of the first phase, which comprised 88 stores and other facilities.

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President Barrow opens WAEC’s AGM

President Barrow Tuesday evening presided over the official opening ceremony of the 71st Annual Council Meeting of the Governing Board of the West African Examination Council at the SDKJ Conference in Bijilo.In his keynote address, the President commended WAEC for its exemplary service to member countries over the years, a feat no other colonial era institution achieved. The achievement he said was a manifestation of the the quality of structures, administrative arrangements and procedures that the Council evolved and maintained over the years.Apart from its consistent quality service delivery, President Barrow said Council has to keep abreast with a fast-changing scientific world and its ever-evolving and productive technological innovations and development.President said that his government would continue to explore international education standard and goals to improve education with a view to promoting excellence. He disclosed that his government is revising the school curriculum and one outcome is the introduction of Civic Education at the senior secondary school level.  

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Fifty-four (54) kilometre North Bank Rural Roads Project LOT1 inaugurated

President Adama Barrow says the North Bank Rural Roads Project is a lasting testimony of his government’s commitment to the goal of upgrading the North Bank Trunk Road to a multi-purpose standard carriageway. President Barrow made those remarks at Sara Kunda, North Bank Region as he inaugurated the newly constructed high way. He said the new nine-metre-wide double-sealed carriageway, connecting the trunk road to the riverside settlements of the region, will significantly promote trade activities and additionally foster regional connectivity. The benefits that come along with the road project would bring to the communities along the motor way were considered at the initial stage hence the allocation of the required funds. He therefore acknowledges, with profound appreciation, the fruitful collaboration among the co-sponsors of the project and their firm support for the Government. President Barrow expressed gratitude to all those who efforts to achieve the infrastructural development, a component of the National Development Plan (NDP).  

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President Barrow Receives the U.S. Under Secretary Ms Uzra Zeya

President Adama Barrow has recognised and applauded the United States's support to the Gambia. President was speaking in an audience with the U.S. Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights, Ms Uzra Zeya, at State House on Monday, 13th March 2023.Ms Uzra is the most Senior Biden government official to visit The Gambia. The President said the U.S. support will help consolidate the gains The Gambia  realised in the areas of democracy and good governance, including the implementation of the recommendations of the TRRC White Paper 2021. President Barrow said his government wants to adequately compensate the victims of injustices of the past regime. He also told the US envoy that his government is working on establishing a hybrid court to prosecute perpetrators of heinous crimes, as indicated in the White Paper on the TRRC Report.President Barrow noted that while his government is limited with resources, they manage the citizens' expectations by investing in social projects that meet the people's demands, create job opportunities for the youth and generally improve the welfare of Gambians. The President promised re-introduce a new futuristic Constitution for all citizens. While expressing his support for a term limit, he added that the lack of it is one of the problems in Africa's governance and security environment. He also expressed a strong political will to fight corruption and the challenging forces against it, and said he was happy with the progress in that direction.On regional and multilateral issues, President Barrow took pride in The Gambia's leadership at the ECOWAS Commission and the Authority’s peace efforts in the sub-region. He assured Under Secretary Zeya of The Gambia's friendship and support at all levels for the mutual benefit of both countries and their people. He expressed delight in President Biden's pledge at the US-Africa Summit to support The Gambia amongst other African countries for their development and prosperity. Ms Uzra Zeya, said that The Gambia’s TRRC is a model worth saluting, as it incorporates reparation and Prosecution. She disclosed that America's development agency, USAID, will re-establish itself in The Gambia and support the access to justice programme of the government in partnership with CSO stakeholders.H.E Excellency Ambassador Sharon Cromer informed the President that the USAID support would include support to the office of the Special Prosecution in drafting legislation and a joint commission in establishing a hybrid court, working with CSOs.Ambassador Cromer also disclosed that the United States would support agriculture in ensuring food security by providing food aid which would be monetised to support the Agriculture programme. The support also include assisting the Gambia to transit from Malaria control to malaria elimination.The support will also extend to the security sector on humanitarian and disaster management, as in sixteen other countries. She referenced the outcome of a recent visit by a U.S. technical team with delight for The Gambia's progress. Thus, the U.S. will support the Ministry of Finance with technical assistant support with a Budget Adviser embedded in Ministry’s team.The U.S. support for the country is noticeable as the U.S. Under Secretary described it as "The Gambia's dramatic progress" that led to the MCC's recognition, the U.S. upgrading the country to Tier 2 on Trafficking in Person status and investing in host communities to support migration challenges and partnering in other shared concerns in diplomacy.  

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IWD: WOMEN IN JOURNALISM

The role of women in journalism in The Gambia is crucial. Women bring a unique perspective to the profession and have been instrumental in exposing injustices and giving voice to the marginalized. As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us acknowledge the achievements of these brave women and continue to support their work. We must strive to create a safe and enabling environment for women journalists in The Gambia and ensure that their voices are heard.

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V.P Jallow takes oath

Today, His Excellency President Adama Barrow presided over the swearing of the new Vice President, H.E Muhammed B.S Jallow, describing him as loyal and trustworthy.‘’During his tenure as Secretary General, Mr Jallow earned my trust and respect based on his performance and comportment. He demonstrated high professionalism and loyalty to the nation, hence his subsequent appointment to represent The Gambia at the Senegalo-Gambia Secretariat. While in active service, he also showed exemplary character and left his mark in the institutions he served.’’ The President noted.Stating that VP Jallow came at a time the pace had been set for the revised national agenda 2023-2027, President Barrow said his knowledge and experience in public administration would be an asset to the country, particularly his supervisory role in overseeing government institutions under his purview as well as participation in cabinet deliberations. Citing the recent signing of performance contracts with SOEs as an indication of his government’s readiness to set public service delivery targets, the President stressed that he is committed to leaving an enviable legacy with the support and cooperation of all arms of government. President Barrow concluded by urging the VP to maintain and promote the cordial team spirit and high professionalism that bind Cabinet members in their collective task of developing The Gambia with unquestionable sincerity.For his part, H.E VP Jallow thanked the President for the trust bestowed on him and assured him that he would work within the remits of the rule of law and due process in developing the country. He paid tribute to his late predecessor, H.E VP Joof, whom he referred to as a teacher and mentor, pledging to continue from the strong foundation he had built.

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MAJaC Trains school children on Broadcast Journalism for ICDB

Media Academy for Journalism and Communication - MAJaC gives 21 Children a chance to research, produce and present content for the International Children's Day of Broadcasting-ICDB. ICDB is a special day for which kids take over television and radio broadcast. This special day was launched by UNICEF in 1991 to raise awareness on children's issues.Every year, on the first Sunday of March, special programs are held to provide a platform for children to communicate with a worldwide audience. The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is a driving force for this initiative, which aims to promote freedom of expression and their right to participation.In The Gambia, children are usually given similar opportunities on the day. As a hands-on journalism training institute, MAJaC gives back to children in a special way. The institution dedicated its staff to spend six days with 21 talented kids from Banjul, KMC and part of West Coast Region to encourage, prepare, and guide the kids to produce broadcast (TV and radio) content for day. The content produced by these kids include; a news bulletin, a panel discussion on the role of children in nation building, two special interviews- one with Hon Tumma Njie, chair select committee for women and children at the National Assembly, the Minister of Information Lamin Queen Jammeh and the UNICEF country rep Mr Gordon Jonathan Lewis. 

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  • MAJaC
  • March 5, 2023 08:03
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President Barrow swears in Five commissioners

The Government has a Huge Responsibility to Restore and Maintain Normality at All Levels- President BarrowPresident Adama Barrow, on Friday, the 24th of February, presided over the swearing-in ceremony of five Commissioners to inquire about the conduct of Local Councils following complaints and non-adherence to legal rulings on administrative matters.  The Commission members, Jainaba Bah Sambou, Samba Faal, Oreme E. Joiner, Sukai Secka Sanyang and Alhaji Sillah, took oaths of Office and Secrecy.Commending the members of the Commission for accepting to perform the task, the President reiterated his Government's commitment to addressing corrupt practices at all levels of public service delivery while urging the Commission to indulge judiciously and professionally in gathering facts on the conduct of the councils.  Recognising his Government's responsibility in establishing the rule of law, the President asserted his position stating, "Guided by Section 200 of the 1997 Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia, I deem it necessary to establish a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the alleged irregularities."The Commission has three months to investigate and present its report to guide Government in adopting relevant policy and administrative options.The Chairperson, Jainaba Bah- Sambou, promised to carry out the exercise with the rest of the members and thanked the President for his trust.

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President Barrow Appoints Vice President

In accordance with the provisions of Sections 70(1) and 70(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia, His Excellency President Adama Barrow has appointed Mr Muhammad B. S. Jallow as Vice President of the Republic of The Gambia with effect from 24th February 2023.Vice President Muhammad Jallow, an experienced Civil Servant, served in different capacities, from an unqualified teacher to Permanent Secretary in various Ministries. He rose to the position of Secretary General and Head of the Civil Service, a position he held until his statutory retirement in 2020. Mr Jallow also worked at the Senegalo -Gambia Secretariat as Deputy Executive Secretary representing The Gambia.

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President Barrow visits scene of fire incident

President Adama Barrow Wednesday evening went to the scene of the fire that engulfed the Nasser Foam Factory near the Denton Bridge. While expressing empathy to the owner, the President praised the Gambia Fire and Rescue Services for controlling the incident. He urged business owners to consider safety precautions in their operations and promised an investigation into the incident.

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Monday 20th February is a public holiday

President Barrow has declared Monday 20th February 2023 a public in observance of the 58th Independence anniversary.

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Latest Updates

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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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