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PRESIDENT BARROW ALLOCATES LAND FOR GPU HEADQUARTERS, BOOSTING PRESS FREEDOM

His Excellency President Adama Barrow made a momentous announcement during the prestigious annual Presidential Media Dinner held at the State House. In his address, he revealed that his administration has officially allocated land for the establishment of a permanent headquarters for the Gambia Press Union (GPU). This landmark decision is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time a government has taken such a step since the nation gained independence, signifying a substantial commitment to fostering a robust and independent media landscape.This initiative not only represents a significant leap forward for media development in The Gambia but also underscores the administration's dedication to promoting press freedom, a fundamental pillar of democracy. By providing a physical space for the GPU, the government aims to enhance the operational capabilities of journalists and media professionals, thereby empowering them to better serve the public interest.The annual Presidential Media Dinner serves as a vital platform for reinforcing the relationship between the government and the media fraternity. It allows for candid discussions and exchanges of ideas, illustrating the President's unwavering commitment to uphold the values of a strong and independent media. This gesture strengthens the foundation for collaborative efforts that can lead to more informed and engaged citizens who are better equipped to participate in democratic processes.

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  • GRTS
  • December 21, 2025 02:06
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PRESIDENT BARROW REASSURES COMMITMENT TO FREE MEDIA AT PRESIDENTIAL MEDIA DINNER

President Adama Barrow has reiterated his government's commitment to a free media environment, where journalists can do their job without fear, at the annual Presidential Media Dinner held at State House.The event, attended by media chiefs and journalists from across print, broadcast, and online media, provided a platform for the President and the press to interact and discuss pertinent issues affecting the media and the role it plays in building the nation.In her remarks, Director of Press and Public Relations, Amie Bojang Sissoho, emphasised that both the government and the press want the country to develop, but have different priorities and approaches, something she said should not make them enemies.Representing the Gambia Press Union, Board Member Alieu Ceesay expressed appreciation for the initiative, stating that it would solidify the good relationship between the government and the Union.Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, said the presidential media dinner shows the President's commitment to resetting and refining his relationship with the Media.President Barrow urged media workers to play more positive and vibrant roles in changing the Media narrative of the Gambia, saying that bulletins of most international agencies are dominated by wars and conflicts, but in the Gambia, media reports are mostly political stories and commentaries because of the democracy, peace, and security in the country.He emphasised that the way differences are moderated could enhance diplomatic and networking efforts, attract investment, and stimulate economic growth.The event was the second edition of the annual presidential media dinner, a tradition started by President Barrow last year.

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AZERBAIJAN AMBASSADOR SEEKS CLOSER MEDIA TIES WITH GAMBIA

In a bid to strengthen bilateral relations and explore areas of cooperation, Dr Nazim Samadov, the Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to The Gambia, paid a courtesy visit to the Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS) on Thursday afternoon.The visit, which reflects the growing diplomatic engagement between the two countries, aimed to familiarise the Ambassador with the operations of GRTS as the national broadcaster and strengthen ties with key public institutions.Dr Samadov and his delegation were received by Abdoulaye Sey, the Director General of GRTS, who expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as a "positive step towards building stronger relations."The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on media development, public broadcasting, and avenues for cooperation between Azerbaijan and The Gambia.Following the meeting, the Ambassador and his host toured GRTS facilities, including the studios, library, master control room, and other sections, where technicians explained the broadcasting process, production, transmission, and programming.The courtesy visit ended with a mutual expression of goodwill and a shared desire to deepen collaboration between the two countries, particularly through media, culture, and tourism engagement.

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NEW CABINET APPOINTMENTS: PRESIDENT BARROW SWEARS IN KEY OFFICIALS

In a significant event at the State House in Banjul, President Adama Barrow conducted a ceremonial swearing-in of several pivotal members of his administration. Among those appointed were Hon. Mod K. Ceesay, who takes on the crucial role of Minister for Trade, Regional Integration, Industry, and Employment, a position that underscores the government's commitment to bolstering economic growth and job creation in The Gambia. Before his new appointment, Minister ,Ceesay was the first holder of the portfolio of Chief of Staff in 2021, and later in 2024, the position of Chief of Staff was elevated to the rank of a Minister at the Presidency.  Honourable Ceesay has served in various ministries as Permanent Secretary, including the Ministry of Trade. (State House)Also sworn in was Alieu Loum, who has been named Chief of Staff, tasked with guiding the President's agenda and ensuring the smooth operation of the administration. Mr Alieu Loum until this appointment,t was the Deputy Chief of Staff at the Office of the President. Mr Loum held several senior portfolios, from Director of Delivery under the Department of Strategic Policy and Delivery (DSPD) to Permanent Secretary responsible for delivery at the Ministry of Public Service. (State House)Additionally, Momodou K. Dibba has been appointed as Deputy Chief of Staff, a role that will support Loum in managing the administration’s priorities and initiatives.Mr Momodou K. Dibba was the Executive Director of the National Social Protection Agency, before this promotion. Mr Dibba, a professional economist, served in several portfolios, including Director at DSPD. (State House)During the ceremony, each official took the Oaths of Allegiance, Office, and Secrecy, solemnly committing themselves to uphold their duties with unwavering dedication and integrity. This appointment marks a pivotal moment as the new officials prepare to tackle the challenges facing The Gambia while working towards the nation’s prosperity and stability. 

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  • GRTS
  • December 18, 2025 03:11
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THE GAMBIA LAUNCHES $52.6M INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT TO BOOST ECONOMIC GROWTH

The Government of The Gambia and the World Bank have officially launched the Gambia Infrastructure Project, a 52.6 million US dollar flagship initiative aimed at strengthening climate-resilient infrastructure, improving service delivery, and enhancing institutional capacity across key sectors to support sustainable socio-economic development.The six-year project, which is expected to run until June 2031, focuses on upgrading road corridors, boosting electricity transmission and distribution reliability, and digital public service systems, offering solutions to strengthen institutional capacity for infrastructure planning, among others.Speaking at the launch, Baboucarr Boye, the Gambia's Minister for Public Service, said the project is firmly aligned with the Recovery Focused National Development Plan and reflects the government's unwavering commitment to inclusive growth, climate resilience, and effective service delivery."The project comes at a critical juncture in our development journey. As our economy continues to expand, driven by construction, agricultural, services, and infrastructure investment, the demand for reliable transport networks and stable energy systems has never been greater," Boye said.Nani Juwara, The Gambia's Petroleum, Energy and Mines Minister, highlighted the expected impact of the project on the country's energy sector, saying the project will make significant contributions in addressing persistent challenges in electricity transmission and distribution while expanding access to reliable power, particularly for communities, at the last mile connection.The project will support the extension and densification of the electricity network in 80 rural communities, involving the construction of approximately 142 km of medium voltage lines, 350 km of low voltage lines, and 92 medium voltage to low voltage substations alongside the provision of prepaid meters for beneficiary communities.Franklin Mutahakana, the World Bank's Resident Representative in the Gambia, urged the implementing team to engage beneficiaries and obtain feedback, especially from the vulnerable, as he affirmed the World Bank's commitment to the implementation."Allow me to reiterate the World Bank Group's commitment to supporting and guiding the implementation of this project. Successful implementation is our shared joy. We also have to remember that a failed implementation will be our shared failure, and none of us likes failure. So let's strive to work together and generate the success that we've been looking for. It's the Bank's desire to register positive and effective implementation" Franklin said.In his launching statement, Ebrima Sillah, the Minister for Transport, Works and Infrastructure, said the pillars of the project, which include the upgrading of critical roads, the expansion of access to electricity, and the strengthening of key institutions, “form the backbone of any serious national development agenda.”Sillah also said he can “confidently confirm” that those investments are “fully aligned with the National Development Plan and enjoy the government's full backing with the highest level of support from His Excellency the President of the Republic Adama Barrow.""We owe it to the Gambian people to manage these resources prudently, to uphold transparency and accountability, and to deliver maximal value for every dalasi invested,” he stated.The Gambia has witnessed a massive transformation in the expansion of road networks and electricity, and stakeholders are hopeful that this project will help to further ameliorate remaining challenges in critical areas.

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ECOWAS COMMISSION CHAIR RECEIVES HIGH-LEVEL DELEGATIONS

The Chairman of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. Dr Omar Alieu Touray, received several high-level diplomatic delegations on Tuesday, 16 December 2025, at his office in Abuja, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation and foster better relations with member states and partners in the Community.During these meetings, President Touray officially received the letters of credence from Ambassador Olawale Emmanuel Awe as the new Permanent Representative of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to ECOWAS. The President also granted an audience to H.E. Mohamed Alkhairy Algedail Arbab, Acting Commissioner of Affairs of the Republic of Sudan, as well as H.E. Ambassador Musa Sani Nuhu, Former Permanent Representative of Nigeria to ECOWAS, who is completing his tenure with the Community.In recognition of his valuable contributions to the work of ECOWAS and his promotion of regional integration, Ambassador Musa Sani Nuhu was presented with a distinction by the Chairman of the Commission, emphasising the Community's gratitude for his dedication.Dr Omar Alieu Touray (right) presents an award to Ambassador Musa Sani Nuhu. Musa is currently Nigeria’s appointed representative to ECOWAS Commission, his role is to facilitate collaboration between the ECOWAS Commission and Government Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), as well as private organisations in Nigeria. The meetings reflect ECOWAS' commitment to strengthening cooperation and collaboration with its member states and partners, with a view to promoting regional integration and development. The Commission looks forward to continuing its work with Ambassador Awe and other partners to advance the objectives of the Community.The visit by the high-level delegations is part of the ongoing efforts by ECOWAS to strengthen its relationships with member states and partners, and to promote regional cooperation and development.

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  • ECOWAS
  • December 17, 2025 08:53
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ECOWAS LEADERS UNITE AGAINST INSECURITY AND COUPS IN WEST AFRICA

West African leaders gathered at the 68th ordinary session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government summit in Abuja, Nigeria, have pledged to tackle the growing challenges of insecurity, military coups, and economic instability in the sub-region. The summit, attended by President Adama Barrow of The Gambia, focused on finding solutions to the complex security situation in West Africa.The leaders condemned the recent military coup in Guinea-Bissau and the attempted coup in Benin, vowing to take action against unconstitutional changes in government. The Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, President Julius Mada Bio of Sierra Leone, emphasised the need for urgent action to address the acute and complex challenges facing the region."We are facing serious threats to democracy, peace, and stability in our region," President Bio said. "We must renew ECOWAS' vision with courage, determination, and unity to foster integration amongst our 400 million population."The summit also saw the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Alieu Omar Touray, commend leaders for their swift response to the attempted coup in Benin. Dr Touray announced plans to integrate the private sector through the establishment of the ECOWAS Business Council, chaired by Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote, to promote investment and development in West Africa.The Vice President of Nigeria, H.E. Kassim Shettima Mustafa, renewed Nigeria's commitment to regional security, peace, and stability, warning against external threats posed by violent extremist groups and urging closer collaboration to respond to these challenges.The summit concluded with a joint declaration rejecting the coup in Guinea-Bissau and calling for a return to democratic civilian rule. ECOWAS leaders also passed on the leadership of the ECOWAS Commission to Senegal for the next four years after the conclusion of the current President's term.

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ECOWAS LEADERS REAFFIRM COMMITMENT TO DEMOCRACY AND REGIONAL STABILITY

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reiterated its unwavering dedication to upholding democracy, constitutional order, and regional stability in West Africa. This commitment was emphasised at the 68th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, held at the State House in Abuja.At a press conference held to mark the conclusion of the summit, Dr Omar Alieu Touray, Chairman of the ECOWAS Commission, outlined the key outcomes of the meeting. The leaders of the 15-member bloc reaffirmed their zero-tolerance stance on unconstitutional changes in government, condemning any attempts to seize power through force.The Gambian leader (left in a pink kaftan) was among the leaders who attended the 68th Ordinary Session in Nigeria. The summit also saw ECOWAS leaders congratulate member states on the successful conduct of recent elections and commend those preparing for polls next year. However, concerns were raised over the situation in The Gambia, particularly regarding statements made by the country's former president in exile. The Authority warned that such actions could undermine national peace and cohesion, emphasising that no one is above accountability for alleged human rights violations.In a separate development, the Authority condemned the attempted coup in Benin and commended the country's security forces for their swift response, supported by ECOWAS regional mechanisms. The leaders tasked the Commission with proposing measures to further strengthen the ECOWAS Reserve Force.The summit demonstrated ECOWAS's commitment to promoting democracy, peace, and stability in the region. As the bloc continues to navigate the complex security landscape, its leaders remain resolute in their determination to uphold the principles of constitutional order and the rule of law.

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PRESIDENT BARROW ARRIVES IN ABUJA FOR CRUCIAL ECOWAS SUMMIT AMID REGIONAL SECURITY CONCERNS 

President Adama Barrow has arrived in Abuja, Nigeria, to attend the 68th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government Summit. The summit will focus on pressing regional issues, particularly the recent military coup in Guinea-Bissau and the attempted coup in Benin.Upon his arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, President Barrow was greeted by Gambian High Commissioner Mohamadou Musa Njie, Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment Dr. Salihu Aminu Usman, and other officials. A ceremonial guard mounted by Nigerian Armed Forces personnel paid tribute to the President, who also inspected the guard of honour outside the Presidential VIP lounge.Nigerian Armed Forces personnel paid tribute to President Barrow upon arrival .Members of the Gambian community in Nigeria were on hand to welcome The Gambian Leader, who will join other West African leaders on Sunday for the summit at the State House in Abuja. The meeting aims to address the regional security challenges posed by the coup in Guinea-Bissau and discuss strategies for maintaining stability and democracy in West Africa.Recent events in Guinea-Bissau have sparked concerns, with ECOWAS suspending the country's coup-installed government from decision-making activities within the regional body until constitutional order is restored. The situation in Benin, where loyalist soldiers foiled an attempted coup, will also be high on the agenda.Nigerian Armed Forces ceremonial guard personnel who mounted a guard of honour for the Gambian leader.This summit presents an opportunity for regional leaders to strengthen cooperation and find solutions to the growing security challenges in West Africa.

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GAMBIA TAKES STEP TOWARDS COOPERATIVE SECTOR REVIVAL WITH VALIDATION WORKSHOP FOR NEW ACT

The Department of Cooperative Development (DoCD) under the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Food Security, in collaboration with NACCUG and its Cooperative Credit Union, has taken a significant step towards strengthening the cooperative movement in The Gambia. A validation workshop for the Cooperative Societies Act was recently held, bringing together officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, representatives from NGOs, private sector stakeholders, and directors from various cooperative unions.The Cooperative Societies Act aims to establish a framework that enables cooperatives to operate efficiently, safeguard the interests of members, and foster transparency. The validation workshop is a crucial step in the development of the Act, ensuring that all concerns are addressed and the document is refined into a responsive national instrument.Officials emphasised that the validation forum marks a pivotal moment in the revival of the cooperative movement in The Gambia, signalling a new era of good governance and accountability. The event brought together key stakeholders to refine the draft document and ensure its effective implementation.Members urged participants to take ownership of the Act and contribute to its refinement, emphasising that Gambians must assume responsibility for its implementation. The validation workshop is a significant step towards promoting a robust and sustainable cooperative sector in The Gambia.

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WEST AFRICAN PARLIAMENTARIANS UNITE TO PROTECT REGION'S COASTAL FUTURE: CALL FOR STRONGER LAWS AND REGIONAL COOPERATION

Parliamentarians from across West Africa gathered in Banjul for a pivotal meeting to address the pressing challenges facing the region's marine and coastal ecosystems. The three-day Extraordinary General Assembly of the Alliance for Parliamentarians and Local Elected Representatives for the Protection of the Environment of West African Littoral Countries (APPEL) brought together leaders to discuss critical issues, including coastal erosion, illegal fishing, pollution, and climate change.The Assembly issued a strong call to action, emphasising the need for stronger environmental laws, cross-border cooperation, and urgent measures to safeguard the region's fragile marine ecosystems. Honourable Seedy SK Njie, The Gambia's Deputy Speaker, stressed the importance of legislative harmonisation and regional solidarity in addressing these challenges.West Africa's environmental challenges extend beyond national borders, making regional cooperation essential. Lawmakers emphasised that regional cooperation is no longer optional, but urgent, to protect the region's coastal future. PRCM Chair Hon. Saikou Bah highlighted the importance of the high seas to national waters and economies, urging lawmakers to champion the ratification and implementation of the BBNJ Treaty.The ratification and implementation of the BBNJ Treaty would be a direct investment in the country's national security, blue economy, and environmental resilience. The Gambia's Deputy Speaker noted that his country has taken steps to strengthen environmental oversight, including reinforcing the plastic bag ban and reviewing the National Environment Management Act.The Assembly marks a turning point for APPEL, as West African parliamentarians come together to address the region's environmental challenges. The meeting demonstrates the commitment of lawmakers to protect the region's coastal future and promote sustainable development.

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OFFICE OF NATIONAL SECURITY CONTINUES NATIONWIDE SENSITISATION ON NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL ACT 2025

The Office of the National Security (ONS), in partnership with the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF), has launched a regional sensitisation programme on the National Security Council Act 2025 in the Central River Region (CRR). This initiative aims to deepen public understanding of the legislation, which seeks to create a formal and coherent framework for coordinating national security activities across the country.The National Security Council Act 2025 is designed to enhance efficiency, strengthen strategic oversight, and address emerging and traditional security challenges. The Act establishes a structured National Security Council and related mechanisms to promote inter-agency coordination, civilian oversight, and a more professional security sector.This sensitation targets over 300 participants, including Regional Governors, security agencies, Chiefs, Alkalos, civil society, youth and women’s groups, are expected to take part.Foday Fofana, Project Officer at DCAF-Banjul, emphasised the importance of engagement in promoting clarity, enhancing collaboration, and generating valuable feedback to strengthen national security coordination mechanisms. The sensitisation exercise is part of ongoing efforts to popularise the legislation among the public and security institutions nationwide.Governor Ousman Bah of the Central River Region commended the Government of The Gambia for prioritising security sector reforms and taking deliberate steps to popularise the legislation. Lamin Jatta, Director of Joint Assessment at the Office of the National Security, noted that the Act is designed to align national security with development aspirations, ensuring security strategies remain comprehensive, people-centred, and supportive of the country's wider development agenda.The nationwide sensitisation reinforces democratic norms by embedding respect for human rights, accountability, and the rule of law within the country's security sector. This initiative demonstrates The Gambia's commitment to promoting security sector governance and advancing national development priorities.This sensitation targets over 300 participants, including Regional Governors, security agencies, Chiefs, Alkalos, civil society, youth and women’s groups, are expected to take part.

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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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