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British & Gambian Wrestling Associations Sign Historic Partnership Deal

6 March 2026 – LondonThe British Wrestling Association and the Gambia Wrestling Association today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in London, marking the beginning of a new partnership aimed at strengthening technical cooperation, cultural exchange, and youth development in the sport of wrestling.The event was attended by Dr Shaherah Jordan, International Relations for British Wrestling, UWW Legacy and Sustainability Commission member.The agreement was signed by Mr Craig Anthony and Mr Matarr Saine, in the presence of Her Excellency Dr Fatou Bensouda at the Gambia High Commission in London.The MoU establishes a knowledge partnership between the two organisations, reflecting a shared commitment to the development of wrestling as both a competitive sport and a vehicle for cultural exchange, youth empowerment, and social cohesion.Recognising the rich heritage of traditional Gambian wrestling known locally as Boreh and the established development of Olympic wrestling in the United Kingdom, the agreement aims to create a framework for collaboration that bridges traditional and modern wrestling disciplines. Both federations also highlighted the growing global appeal of Beach Wrestling as an area of shared interest and opportunity.Under the agreement, the two organisations will cooperate across several key areas, including technical and coaching exchange, where expertise will be shared on Olympic wrestling styles, traditional Gambian wrestling techniques, and beach wrestling training methodologies.The partnership will also focus on cultural and fan engagement, enabling both federations to exchange best practices in community participation, event organisation, and the promotion of wrestling at grassroots and international levels.In addition, the MoU outlines cooperation in governance and integrity, including the sharing of safeguarding frameworks and consultation on governance models aligned with international sporting standards.Youth development is another central pillar of the partnership. The two federations plan to collaborate on youth training camps, mentorship initiatives, and programmes designed to broaden participation in wrestling, including promoting greater gender inclusion within the sport.The agreement also opens the door for strategic advocacy and international cooperation, with both organisations exploring opportunities to collaborate within global wrestling structures and pursue third-party funding opportunities such as Olympic Solidarity and Commonwealth sport development programmes.Speaking at the signing ceremony, the parties emphasised that the partnership reflects the strong spirit of friendship between the two nations and the shared belief that sport can build bridges between cultures.The Memorandum of Understanding is non-binding and does not create financial obligations for either party, with each organisation bearing its own costs for activities carried out under the cooperation.Signed in London on 6 March 2026, the agreement will remain in effect for two years, with the possibility of extension by mutual written consent.The event was attended by the staff of the Mission Ends.

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OIC Chair Adama Barrow Urges Restraint Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

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

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BENSOUDA BACKS GAMBIAN WRESTLING: HIGH COMMISSIONER PUSHES FOR UK TIES

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

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GAMBIA LEADS OACPS: MINISTER KEITA AT THE HELM

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

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GAMBIA EMBASSY IN CHINA DENIES MISCONDUCT ALLEGATIONS OVER SCHOLARSHIP ISSUES 

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

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GAMBIA'S PRESIDENT ADDRESSES NATION AMIDST BOAT DISASTER

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

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DEFENCE MINISTRY CRACKS DOWN ON UNAUTHORISED DRONE ACTIVITY

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

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PRESIDENT BARROW DECLARES CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR HOLIDAYS FOR GAMBIA

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

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GAMBIA POLICE FORCE GENERAL  RECRUITMENT EXERCISE 2025/2026

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

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

A press release from the office of the government spokesperson

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Media Advisory

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

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Latest Updates

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𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐍 𝐀𝐅𝐅𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐒 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐒 𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐎𝐍 𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐁𝐎𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐕𝐎𝐋𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐌𝐈𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐒

𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐋, 𝟒𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad expresses its deep sadness following reports of a boat incident involving migrants and extends its sincere condolences to the families and loved ones affected. The Ministry conveys its solidarity with all those awaiting information regarding the whereabouts and well-being of their relatives.At this stage, the identities and nationalities of the persons reportedly on board have not been officially verified. While preliminary information suggests that the vessel may have departed from The Gambia, the Ministry is engaging with the Spanish authorities and other relevant stakeholders to establish the circumstances of the incident and verify the information currently available.The Ministry is also liaising with the relevant Spanish authorities and, through its National Focal Point under the Rabat Process, maintaining contact with relevant counterparts and partners, including IOM and ICRC, as appropriate, to facilitate information-sharing and contribute to efforts to clarify the situation.The Ministry is mindful of the distress and uncertainty being experienced by families whose relatives may be missing. The Ministry therefore urges the public and all concerned to exercise caution regarding information that has not been officially verified, as inaccurate reports may cause further distress to affected families. Further information will be communicated, as appropriate, once the relevant facts have been established and verified.The Ministry remains concerned about the continued risks associated with dangerous and irregular migration journeys. It underscores the importance of continued cooperation among relevant authorities and stakeholders to promote safe and regular migration and protect vulnerable migrants from exploitation.The Ministry extends its deepest sympathies to all families and communities affected by this incident and appreciates the public's understanding, patience, and cooperation as efforts to establish the facts continue.

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PRESIDENT BARROW INAUGURATES NEW MOSQUE IN GUNJUR

President Adama Barrow on Friday inaugurated a new mosque in Gunjur, a project funded by the Presidency. The ceremony drew cabinet ministers, senior government officials, religious leaders, elders, and residents of Gunjur and neighbouring settlements.On arrival, President Barrow was received by West Coast Region Governor Ousman Bojang and the Minister of Regional Government, Lands and Religious Affairs, Hamat N.K. Bah, along with other dignitaries.(Minister of Regional Government, Lands and Religious Affairs, Hamat N.K. Bah welcoming President Barrow as he arrived in Gunjur.)By noon, the mosque and its compound were filled, with many others seated outside for the historic opening.Imam Alhagie Muhammed Lamin Touray led the prayer service. In his sermon, he preached peace, unity, and stability, and urged Muslims to fulfil their religious obligations with dedication.(Imam Alhagie Muhammed Lamin Touray, who was a former President of The Gambia's Supreme Islamic Council, delivering the sermon.)The Imam then led the two-rakat prayer marking the official inauguration of the mosque.Speaking after prayers, Imam Touray expressed profound gratitude to President Barrow for sponsoring the construction. He recalled past challenges the community faced in raising funds for a mosque, and said the President had fulfilled their long-held dream."This singular act will enhance the spiritual development of the community," Imam Touray said. He also thanked women, youth, and religious leaders for their support during the project.(President Barrow flanked by Chief Falalo Touray and Alkalo Dembo Darboe of Gunjur.)Chief Falalo Touray and Alkalo Dembo Darboe of Gunjur also commended the President. They noted that the mosque, together with ongoing road and infrastructure projects, will promote the religious and social development of Gunjur. They urged residents to support the President to enable him to continue his development agenda.Minister Hamat N.K. Bah described the mosque as one of the most modern in the country, built to meet contemporary architectural standards.He disclosed that President Barrow has funded several mosque projects nationwide, reflecting his commitment to Islam and the spiritual development of Muslims.The Minister echoed calls for Gambians to support the President’s re-election bid in December. He also thanked elders and religious leaders for preaching peace and tolerance, and urged them to continue guiding to preserve national tranquillity.In his inaugural statement, President Barrow thanked the Gunjur community for the honour, noting he had long pledged to support the project.(President Barrow addressing worshippers after the prayer.)He described Gunjur as a historic Islamic settlement that produced renowned scholars including Omar Bun Jeng and Hatab Bojang. He said mosques play a vital role in the spiritual and moral development of society.The President thanked anonymous donors who supported the construction and urged the community to pray for them. He called the mosque a progressive project that has changed the infrastructural landscape of Gunjur.President Barrow challenged residents to take good care of the mosque and its facilities, and pledged government support for its upkeep and maintenance.On the upcoming December elections, the President urged Gambians to pray for peace. He reassured the nation of the government’s commitment to a smooth and credible process."There are no losers in elections," President Barrow said. "A peaceful and credible process promotes The Gambia’s image as a democratic country."The President departed Gunjur to a large farewell crowd.

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DR. FATOU BENSOUDA HONOURED WITH NELSON MANDELA ANNUAL LECTURE AWARD

Dr Fatou Bensouda, High Commissioner of The Gambia to the United Kingdom, has received the prestigious Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture Award for her outstanding contribution to the promotion of the rule of law, justice, and human rights globally.Dr Bensouda delivered the 19th Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture in 2021. In recognition of that address and her longstanding commitment to justice and accountability, the Nelson Mandela Foundation honoured her with a commemorative award bust.During Dr Bensouda’s visit to South Africa in November 2025, the Foundation proposed to present the award in person. Due to time constraints, it was received on her behalf by Her Excellency Fatoumatta Jahumpa Ceesay, High Commissioner of The Gambia to South Africa, in Pretoria.Madam Jahumpa Ceesay later brought the award to London, where she formally presented it to Dr Bensouda in a brief ceremony at the Gambian High Commission.The recognition places Dr Bensouda among a distinguished group of global leaders associated with the Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture. Past lecturers and honourees include former U.S. President Barack Obama, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, former South African President Thabo Mbeki, Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai, and philanthropist Bill Gates.The Annual Lecture is one of the Foundation’s flagship programmes and celebrates individuals who advance the values of human dignity, justice, and equality championed by Nelson Mandela.The award is a fitting acknowledgement of Dr Bensouda’s distinguished career in international law. As former Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, she played a key role in advancing accountability for war crimes and crimes against humanity.The High Commission said the honour reflects not only Dr Bensouda’s personal legacy, but also The Gambia’s continued commitment to justice, the rule of law, and human rights on the global stage.

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𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐍 𝐀𝐅𝐅𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐒 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐒 𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐎𝐍 𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐁𝐎𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐕𝐎𝐋𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐌𝐈𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐒

𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐋, 𝟒𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad expresses its deep sadness following reports of a boat incident involving migrants and extends its sincere condolences to the families and loved ones affected. The Ministry conveys its solidarity with all those awaiting information regarding the whereabouts and well-being of their relatives.At this stage, the identities and nationalities of the persons reportedly on board have not been officially verified. While preliminary information suggests that the vessel may have departed from The Gambia, the Ministry is engaging with the Spanish authorities and other relevant stakeholders to establish the circumstances of the incident and verify the information currently available.The Ministry is also liaising with the relevant Spanish authorities and, through its National Focal Point under the Rabat Process, maintaining contact with relevant counterparts and partners, including IOM and ICRC, as appropriate, to facilitate information-sharing and contribute to efforts to clarify the situation.The Ministry is mindful of the distress and uncertainty being experienced by families whose relatives may be missing. The Ministry therefore urges the public and all concerned to exercise caution regarding information that has not been officially verified, as inaccurate reports may cause further distress to affected families. Further information will be communicated, as appropriate, once the relevant facts have been established and verified.The Ministry remains concerned about the continued risks associated with dangerous and irregular migration journeys and underscores the importance of continued cooperation among relevant authorities and stakeholders to promote safe and regular migration and protect vulnerable migrants from exploitation.The Ministry extends its deepest sympathies to all families and communities affected by this incident and appreciates the understanding, patience and cooperation of the public as efforts to establish the facts continue.

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PRESIDENT BARROW TOURS LANDMARK PROJECTS, MEETS GAMBIAN COMMUNITY IN LIBREVILLE

On the sidelines of his visit to the Republic of Gabon, President Adama Barrow on Monday toured landmark projects in the capital, Libreville, and met with members of the Gambian community.The President, accompanied by First Lady Fatou Bah Barrow, began with a visit to a major hotel constructed by a Turkish conglomerate that has helped transform Gabon’s hospitality industry.The Chief Executive Officer conducted President Barrow and the First Lady on a guided tour of the hotel located on the shores of the coastal city.President Barrow was then driven to the site of one of Gabon and Central Africa’s most ambitious projects — a twisting tower that, when completed, will be the tallest building in the sub-region.Gabonese and Turkish contractors briefed the President on the progress of the tower and related infrastructure. The project is expected to be ready for inauguration next year and will permanently transform the skyline of the Central African nation. The gesture mirrored the tour accorded to President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema during his recent visit to The Gambia.Following the site visit, President Barrow and the First Lady proceeded to the Radisson Blu Hotel for a meeting with Gambians living in Gabon.Consul General Saikou Dukureh welcomed the President and thanked him for the engagement. He described Gambians in Gabon as hardworking, united, and law-abiding, and commended the government for supporting their welfare.Jakarta Dampha, a community representative, said there has been marked improvement in the well-being of Gambians in Gabon since President Barrow took office. He noted that the President’s leadership has ensured that Gambians in the diaspora are not discriminated against and that their concerns are addressed promptly.Hawa Dukureh, speaking on behalf of the youth, commended the President for dispatching a team of immigration officials to issue national documents. She said nearly 200 people were processed, but appealed for support to ensure the passports are delivered.In his remarks, President Barrow expressed gratitude for the warm reception at the airport, which he said even impressed his host, President Oligui Nguema.He said dialogue is key to national unity and described it as a great honour to serve as Chief Guest of Honour at Gabon’s Independence Anniversary.On diaspora support, the President reaffirmed his government’s commitment to assisting Gambians abroad. He said the decision to send immigration officials to Gabon was to ensure citizens have access to documents. He pledged to prioritise the delivery of all processed passports upon his return to Banjul.The President also updated the community on developments at home. He said the government has laid the foundation stone for 1,500 km of roads across the country and highlighted progress in electricity, health, transport, and education.With the December presidential election approaching, President Barrow encouraged those with voter cards to exercise their right, and urged those without to encourage family and friends to vote for continuity.He concluded by urging the community to maintain unity, peace, and respect for lawful authority. He also advised Gambians seeking repatriation to apply through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a smooth process.

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PRESIDENT BARROW JOINS GABON'S 66TH INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATIONS IN LIBREVILLE

The President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, joined the people of Gabon on Monday to celebrate the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary with a grand military parade in the capital, Libreville.The national day celebrations were held at the Palais de l’Indépendance in central Libreville. President Barrow, accompanied by First Lady Fatou Bah Barrow, served as Chief Guest of Honour.The ceremony was attended by several African leaders, including Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Carlos Vila Nova, President of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe, and General Horta Nta, Interim President of Guinea-Bissau.Gabonese President Gen. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, presided over the official celebrations.Ahead of the parade, President Oligui Nguema inaugurated La Concorde, a memorial dedicated to Georges Damas Aleka, composer of Gabon’s national anthem. A representative of Aleka’s family received a posthumous award in honour of his contribution as one of the architects of modern Gabon.The main highlight was a parade by the armed and security services. Detachments from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Special Operations Forces, and Commandos marched past the Commander-in-Chief.Units of the Police also participated, including General Services, the Special Intervention Group, Riot Control, and the K-9 Unit. The Fire Service, Ambulance Service, and Medical Corps also took part.The second phase featured a display of military hardware. Dozens of armoured personnel carriers, rocket launchers, artillery, and anti-aircraft guns rolled through the boulevard, while military aircraft and helicopters conducted a flypast overhead.Service vehicles operated by the Armed Forces, Police, Paramilitary, and Engineering Corps were also displayed, marking the end of the parade.Following the ceremony, President Barrow and First Lady Fatou Bah Barrow were driven to the Presidential Palace for a reception hosted by President Oligui Nguema and First Lady Zita Oligui Nguema.

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