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PRESIDENT BARROW OUTLINES GOVERNMENTS’ ACHIEVEMENTS AND PLANS

His Excellency Adama Barrow delivered the 2023 state of the nation address outlining his government’s achievements and national development plans, spurring sustainable growth and economic stability.During a marathon address before a fully packed Assembly of deputies, senior government officials and the diplomatic corps, President Barrow revealed insights into his government's plans for the coming year, outlining some major breakthroughs attained over the past years.The president said despite the challenges caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war, the Gambia’s economy registered impressive development in all forms, with robust economic fundamentals directed at maintaining sustained levels of positive growth and price stability.Dilating on various sectors, policies and national programmes, the Gambian leader said his government is committed to supporting farmers.‘The Ministry of Agriculture has initiated The Gambia Incentive-based Risk Sharing and Agricultural Lending Facility Project to improve access to finance by de-risking lending to the agriculture sector.’‘The project will collaborate with financial institutions to avail farmers and value chain actors of the needed finance for a transformed Food System.’ He said.He underscored the defence Ministry’s development of the first ever defence policy, while highlighting focused efforts to empower women.‘The Women Enterprise Fund introduced in 2020 has benefited more than 93,000 women entrepreneurs, with D68 million disbursed to 628 Women Groups. The recovery rate during the past three years stands at 75% and 53%, respectively, for the first and second disbursements. In 2023 about 550 women groups will be reached countrywide through the same arrangement.’The president’s state of the nation address further noted the government's success in building key sectors such as education with more schools and trained teachers responding to the increasing enrolment in all levels of the education system alongside scholarship opportunities.On crime and security, The Gambian leader revealed the drastic reduction of crime in the first quarter of 2023 compared to 2021 and 2022, outlining corresponding efforts to strengthen and indigenize the judiciary and justice system.The President further highlighted major headways in energy and infrastructural development citing the numerous road constructions registered by his administration. He said NAWEC is being restructured to improve services as the government continues to subsidize fuel prices to respond to rising global fuel prices.Reacting to the president’s speech, Alhagie S. Darboe the minority leader said the president should be commended for appearing a little earlier compared to the previous year.‘The president’s address should come in the first quarter of the year so the deputies can be well informed on the issues and address them. This time it came in the second quarter, but we will keep pushing so it can be delivered in the first quarter.’Deputies are expected to deliberate on the president’s address in subsequent parliamentary sittings. Muhammed B.S Jallow the vice president will represent the president to answer questions. Cabinet ministers will also appear on separate days to take questions regarding their various ministries.During subsequent assembly deliberations, bills and motions will be presented to the legislature for enactment alongside treaties and international agreements scheduled for ratification.

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PRESIDENT BARROW LEAVES FOR NIGERIA TO ATTEND TINUBU’S INAUGURATION

PRESIDENT BARROW LEAVES FOR NIGERIA TO ATTEND TINUBU’S INAUGURATIONGambia’s President Adama Barrow on Sunday departed Banjul for Nigeria, where he is expected to attend the inauguration of Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the president-elect of Nigeria. The president was seen off on departure at the Banjul international airport by cabinet ministers, senior security, and government officials among others. The Gambian leader is expected to join several other heads of state for the inauguration of Nigeria's president-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Eagles Square in Abuja. During the visit, President Barrow is expected to engage in bilateral talks to further strengthen ties between Banjul and Abuja. The Gambian leader is expected to return to Banjul on Tuesday 30th May 2023.Having emerged victorious in Nigeria’s February Presidential Election, Senator Bola Tinubu of the APC party, will be sworn-in on May 29, 2023, as the president of the federal republic of Nigeria. Gambia and Nigeria share historic relations dating back to the post-independence era when the two countries established formal diplomatic relations. Since then, relations have been described as ‘excellent’ as the two countries partner in several areas of cooperation. Nigeria supports The Gambia in the areas of education, judiciary, security, and capacity building. Nigeria played a key role in ending the political impasse in the aftermath of the December 2016 Presidential elections and has since deployed a contingent to serve in peacekeeping operation in The Gambia.Over the years the two countries have worked to build a solid foundation to further entrench the existing bilateral and multilateral cooperation.

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BBC JOURNALIST CONCLUDES THREE-DAY TRAINING FOR STUDENTS IN GAMBIA

Esau Williams, a BBC News presenter, and producer completes a three-day training for the Media Academy for Journalism and Communication students in the Gambia.The BBC journalist who had over 10 years of experience with one of the world's leading media institutions, delivered lectures on key areas of journalism. This includes idea development, research, interviews, sourcing, news presentation, and production.The training brought together Diploma and Advanced Diploma students of the Academy.Sang Mendy, the Managing Director of the school who facilitated the training said, it is part of their plans to better prepare the students for better deliverables in the newsroom.'Our English teacher always emphasises that the students listen to the BBC.' 'We can inspire them, giving reference to what we do and how we did it before. But here is someone working for the BBC which is a reference for global broadcasting, will inspire them. This is the objective and also to learn from a great mind like Esau', Sang said.The BBC Focus on Africa producer and presenter said the areas he discussed with the students 'form the bedrock of any proper journalistic career.' 'The point of the training is to boost and add capacity to the work that journalists do in the Gambia.' 'We have issues with the National Journalism Awards. We don't think the quality of journalism is up to scratch. This is just an effort to improve that' he added. Adama Sanneh a Diploma student said he has learned a lot of new things that were not taught in class. 'Now I will be able to look at little things and make good news out of them.''There are a lot of things going on that we feel are not important. But going through the training and knowing you can think beyond, that will help me to become better.'Media Academy for Journalism and Communication (MAJaC), was established in 2010 by the Gambia Press Union.Its focus is to 'strengthen democracy in the Gambia through quality journalism and effective communication.'

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President Barrow Congratulates Nigeria, Calls for Prioritising of Agric-Business

President Adama Barrow congratulated H.E Muhamadu Buhari, his government and the people of Nigeria for a successful and peaceful election and a demonstration of leadership by example for ECOWAS. The President extended the message through the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Zubairu Dada, who is in The Gambia on a two-day visit.   The Gambian President reiterated the brotherly relations with the Federal Republic of Nigeria, through which the country enjoys technical support in various sectors.  President Barrow recounted the valuable role of Nigeria in The Gambia’s transition since 2017 and called for continued support as the country moves to the next phase of implementing its reform programme.In a separate diplomatic engagement Thursday morning, President Barrow met the ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic and Agricultural Affairs, Mrs Massanje Tour- Litse.    The two discussed regional integration and ECOWAS’ commitment to continue supporting and working with The Gambia. President Barrow stressed that Africa has the human and natural resources and should invest in making agribusiness a priority through industrialisation to feed itself.  He decried Africa, with a much bigger population, having to suffer due to the unfortunate War in Ukraine. “The way forward for Africa is prioritising Agric-business for economic development and food security,” President Barrow emphasised. He commended the ECOWAS Commissioner for prioritising agriculture, school feeding and working with the youth, adding, “we cannot continue blaming colonialism; it is time to be innovative and do things for ourselves.''

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Prevention against Torture Act passed

The National Assembly has recently passed the Prevention Against Torture Act, 2023. The Act  seeks to prevent & eradicate the use of torture and other cruel, inhuman treatment or punishment & to ensure accountability of acts of torture.A statement from the Ministry of Justice says the passing of  this Act plays a central role in our transitional justice process especially in our bid to ensure accountability for gross human rights violations under the previous  government and to ensuring that these atrocities never reoccur.

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BANJUL UTD SNATCH A POINT AGAINST BIKO IN WEEK 14 OF THE GFF LEAGUE

Banjul United came from behind to rescue a point at home against Steve Biko with a one-all draw in week 14 of the Gambia Football Federation First Division League.Modou Lamin Touray put Biko in front after just 17 minutes when he received a defense-splitting pass from the Gambia U-20 prodigy Adama Bojang and stroke passed the rushing Banjul United goalkeeper.However, Banjul United also revert to the services of another Gambia U-20 player to level matters. In the 59th minute, central referee Ali adjudged a Biko defender for a handball, and Gambia U-20 forward Mansour Mbye fired home from the spot to make it 1 – 1.There were further chances from both ends, especially in the closing stages when Adama Bojang had a last-gasp free header saved from point-blank by Babucarr Janteh in between the frame for Banjul United.The Biko coach Adnan Musa blamed the draw on what he described as a wrong decision. 'To be honest with you, the penalty was never a penalty. You can't be in your natural position and they penalize you for that. I think Banjul United could have scored a better goal but not from the spot' he said.The Banjul United coach Sheikh Adama Joof whose side only managed four wins in 13 games, said everything is tough for now. 'We started badly with two defeats. The team is not in the shape I want, but we will try in the next few games to be there'. In the other games, Waa Banjul recorded a hard-fought 2 - 1 win over PSV Wellingara. Fortune F.C. conquered Brikama United in the West Coast Region derby with a 1 - 0 win. And, woes continue for the defending champions Hawks as they lost 3 - 0 to Team Rhino. Falcons drew goalless with Samger. Real De Banjul managed a narrow 2 - 1 win over Gamtel. Marimoo lost 2 - 0 to Wallidan and, Greater Tomorrow also lost 2 - 1 to Gambia Armed Forces.

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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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Latest Updates

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PRESIDENT BARROW RETURNS TO BANJUL AFTER 10-DAY TOUR OF PROVINCES

President Adama Barrow returned to Banjul on Saturday to a hero’s welcome after spending 10 days touring the provinces.Thousands of supporters lined the highway to welcome the President as he crossed the Brumen Bridge in Kalagi, marking his entry into the West Coast Region (WCR) and completing the first leg of his Meet The People Tour.President Barrow was seen off at the Lower River Region (LRR) – WCR border by Governor Sidi Lamin Bah and regional officials. He was received on the other side by the Governor of WCR, his deputy, chiefs, alkalolu and other regional officials.Supporters of the NPP and its alliance partners had mobilised from early afternoon, creating a carnival atmosphere with singing, dancing and cultural displays.Waving to the cheering crowds, the President’s motorcade made slow progress out of Kalagi, with several stops along the highway.At Kuloro, supporters greeted him with fanfare before the entourage proceeded to Brikama, where thousands more filled the main intersection. Jubilant crowds swarmed the presidential vehicle and escorted it out of town.Similar scenes were repeated along the Brikama-Serekunda Highway, in Farato, Busumbala, Lamin and at the Airport Junction, where supporters lined the road to cheer the President.At Yundum Barracks, President Barrow stepped out of his vehicle to acknowledge the Gambia Armed Forces band, which had mounted a tent to add to the ambience.After the long procession through WCR, the President arrived in Abuko where he was received by officials of the Kanifing Municipality. He greeted the line of officials before continuing through Kanifing, waving to crowds that lined the streets.At Tallinding, he was welcomed by the Speaker of the National Assembly and leader of the APRC, Hon. Fabakary Tombong Jatta, and his executive.The motorcade then moved through Westfield, where supporters staged a final show of force, before proceeding to Denton Bridge for the official handover ceremony. From there, the entourage headed to the Never Again Arch in Banjul.In the capital, supporters staged a massive reception and accompanied the motorcade to State House, marking the official end of the welcome ceremony.Addressing supporters, President Barrow thanked them for the extraordinary show of support and pledged to continue championing national development. He described the upcoming December election as a foregone conclusion, given the unprecedented support received in WCR, Kanifing and Banjul.Inside State House, he was received by Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow.Earlier in Mansakonko, President Barrow had assessed the first leg of the tour as very successful, saying it gave him a true understanding of the situation across the country. He pledged to continue prioritising infrastructure, social services and capacity building.The second leg of the tour, covering the West Coast Region and Greater Banjul Area, will resume after a short break.

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Gambia, Senegal Launch Sensitisation Campaign on Border Densification Exercise

The Gambia and Senegal on Friday launched a sensitisation campaign to educate border communities on the ongoing border densification exercise and dispel misinformation and disinformation surrounding the process.Speaking at a community gathering in Njaw, Central River Region, National Security Adviser and Deputy Chairman of The Gambia’s Boundary Commission, Abubacar Jeng, said President Adama Barrow is paying close attention to the exercise and considers it a matter of national importance.Mr Jeng clarified that the exercise does not involve the demarcation of a new border, but rather the densification of the existing boundary to make it more visible and clearly identifiable.He acknowledged that the international boundary cuts across communities on both sides and assured residents that the exercise would not result in the loss of land belonging to individuals or communities.“The border is not being demarcated; it is being densified to make it clearer,” Mr Jeng said, while expressing confidence that communities on both sides would continue to coexist peacefully, as they have done for generations.(Abubacar Jeng, National Security Adviser and Deputy Chairman of The Gambia’s Boundary Commission)Chairman of Senegal’s Boundary Commission, General Saihou Camara, echoed the call for calm and peaceful coexistence. He urged residents not to take the law into their own hands should disputes or concerns arise during the exercise.General Camara advised community members to seek assistance from the appropriate authorities in either country to resolve any issues that may emerge.Representing GIZ, Dr Abdul highlighted the importance of clearly defining and identifying international boundaries. He explained that the densification exercise would improve clarity along the border and help reduce the potential for cross-border disputes and conflicts.The Prefect of Kaffrine, Madam Fall, also underscored the longstanding peaceful relations between communities on both sides of the border. She encouraged residents to preserve the spirit of cooperation and peaceful coexistence that has characterised their relationship over the years.The Chief of Upper Saloum, Alhaji Demba Sey, and his Senegalese counterpart spoke of the deep historical, cultural and social ties that bind communities in the border areas.Other speakers included alkalos and youth representatives from both The Gambia and Senegal, who also emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and understanding among border communities.The gathering marked the beginning of a wider sensitisation campaign aimed at reassuring communities about the objectives of the densification exercise while addressing concerns and combating misinformation and disinformation.Authorities from both countries urged residents to rely on verified information from the Boundary Commissions and relevant government authorities throughout the exercise. 

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CAVB Honours Gambia Volleyball Federation for Contribution to African Volleyball 

Sal, Cape Verde, October 4, 2026 - The Gambia Volleyball Federation (GVBF) has been honoured by the African Volleyball Confederation (CAVB) among 18 national federations recognised for their performances, achievements and continued contribution to the growth and development of volleyball in Africa.The recognition was presented during the CAVB Ordinary Congress in Sal, Cabo Verde, with the award received on behalf of The Gambia by Bai Dodou Jallow, President of the Gambia Volleyball Federation.The continental recognition acknowledges the efforts of national federations in strengthening competitions, developing volleyball programmes, expanding participation and creating greater opportunities for athletes, coaches, officials and other stakeholders.For Gambian volleyball, the honour represents another important milestone in the country’s continued development and participation in the sport at continental level.The latest recognition also carries historical significance. In 2015, The Gambia received a similar continental recognition from CAVB, highlighting the country’s contribution to the development of volleyball.More than a decade later, the latest honour reflects the continued work of the Gambia Volleyball Federation to develop and promote the sport through national competitions, athlete development, regional and continental participation, and increased opportunities for Gambian volleyball players.The Gambia has continued to make its presence felt in both indoor and beach volleyball, with its teams and athletes competing in various CAVB competitions.The recognition is also a tribute to the collective efforts of athletes, coaches, clubs, referees, technical officials, administrators, volunteers and partners who continue to contribute to the growth of volleyball in The Gambia.For President Bai Dodou Jallow and the GVBF, the honour provides renewed motivation to build on the progress achieved and continue working towards a stronger and more competitive volleyball system.From the recognition received in 2015 to the latest honour in 2026, the Gambia Volleyball Federation continues to be recognised as part of the broader development of African volleyball.The latest CAVB recognition is therefore both a celebration of past efforts and an encouragement to keep investing in the future of Gambian volleyball.

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KABADA ROADS A MILESTONE: PRESIDENT BARROW PROMISES FULL ELECTRIFICATION OF LRR

President Adama Barrow has hailed the completion of the 200km Kabada roads project as a major milestone in The Gambia's infrastructural transformation. He was speaking in Jarra Wellingara Ba and Kiang Kwinella as he wrapped up the first leg of his Meet the People Tour.The President also promised to electrify the remaining communities in Lower River Region (LRR).After nearly eight days in Upper River Region (URR) and Central River Region (CRR), President Barrow crossed into LRR at the Sofanyama Bridge, which marks the boundary between the two regions.Governor Ousman Bah of CRR, alongside his Deputy Sainey Mbye, chiefs, alkalolu and regional security chiefs, saw off the President. He was received on the other side by Seedy Lamin Bah, the Governor of LRR, and regional officials, before greeting a long line of local dignitaries. After traditional ceremonies, the entourage proceeded to Wellingara Ba in Jarra Central.At Wellingara Ba football field, supporters surrounded the President’s motorcade chanting slogans in a carnival atmosphere. The meeting opened with prayers, followed by welcoming remarks from Alkalo Ali Baldeh, who reaffirmed his support and loyalty to President Barrow and assured him of votes in December.Other speakers, including Chief Ansumana Kanaji of Jarra East, Lady Councillor Sira Sabally, youth representative Lamin A. Jobe, National Assembly Member Honourable Haruna Barry and Paramount Chief Yahya Jarjusey, all renewed their support and vowed to mobilise for the President ahead of the December polls.They acknowledged the positive developments but appealed for expansion of the electricity network, more investment in agriculture, provision of cold storage facilities for women gardeners, and vaccines to protect livestock.Responding, Minister of Agriculture Dr Demba Sabally said the government will embark on a massive livestock vaccination campaign next year. He added that the government has already provided nine tractors, tilled hundreds of hectares in several communities in LRR, and built seven cold storage facilities to support women.President Barrow thanked the people of Jarra for the impressive turnout, saying it underscores the strong support he enjoys in the area. He noted that LRR has the lion’s share of his road infrastructure drive, with 200km already completed, and appealed for patience for more to come.He said he feels emotional whenever he visits Kabada, where decades of isolation left the region underdeveloped.On electricity, the President said out of 1,800 settlements nationwide, only 300 remain without electricity, adding that contracts have already been signed to connect them. He declared that his “long hand of development” will reach every community.From Wellingara Ba, the entourage proceeded to Kwinella in Kiang Central for the final meeting in LRR, where supporters lined the main road to welcome the President.Speakers heaped praise on the government for opening up what was once an isolated part of the country. Elder Fabubu Bah said the road network has opened new corridors and made the region accessible. He promised the people will repay President Barrow with votes, saying opposition ballot boxes “will come to Kabada empty and will leave empty” to loud applause.NAM for Kiang Central, Hon. Yusupha Bah, recalled the difficulties Kabada faced in the past and contrasted it with the present, where all major roads are paved, describing it as an unprecedented feat that makes President Barrow the preferred candidate. He predicted a landslide victory.The meeting was cut short by heavy rains, forcing President Barrow to deliver a brief address. He thanked the people of Kiang for their support and promised to inaugurate the 200km road network later this month.

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GAMBIA-SENEGAL BOUNDARY SENSITISATION SET FOR FRIDAY

The Gambia-Senegal Boundary Commission has held a preparatory meeting in Njaw, CRR, ahead of a joint sensitisation campaign on the boundary densification exercise.General Saikou Seckan of the Gambia Armed Forces said the boundary was demarcated in 1904 and stressed that the sensitisation team’s role is to explain the exercise and allay concerns among border communities.Colonel Gueye of the Senegalese Territorial Army said the exercise aims to clarify the existing boundary. He assured residents that it is not intended to take away their land, but said landowners must comply with the laws of the country where their land falls.Lt Col. Lamin Krubally, Farafenni Commanding Officer, stressed the exercise's importance to national security, while Dawda Fatty, Director of Lands and Survey, highlighted the strong family ties between communities on both sides.The local chief welcomed the initiative, saying “The farms are older than the boundaries.”The joint sensitisation campaign launches Friday at Njaw CRR. Delegates from both The Gambia and Senegal and international agencies are expected to attend.

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PRESIDENT BARROW PLEDGES ADDITIONAL D50M FOR WOMEN, ANNOUNCES FINAL PHASE OF CRR ELECTRIFICATION

President Adama Barrow has pledged an additional D50 million to empower Gambian women and strengthen their participation in national socio-economic development.President Barrow made the pledge in Kaur and Kalen Jawbeh during his ongoing Meet the People Tour in Central River Region North. He also disclosed that the government has awarded contracts for the second and final phase to provide electricity to the remaining communities in the region.The President was speaking at a joint meeting in Kaur for Lower Saloum, Upper Saloum and Nianija Districts.The meeting opened with statements from community leaders who thanked the President for unprecedented developments in roads, electricity, health and education. While acknowledging the gains, they appealed for expanded access to electricity and clean water, and support for farmers affected by poor rainfall this season.They renewed their loyalty to President Barrow and pledged to ensure a landslide victory for the NPP-led Grand Alliance in the December polls.The National Assembly Member for Lower Saloum, Honourable Sainey Jawara, commended the developments but appealed for fast-tracking of electricity to cover the remaining communities in CRR North.Minister of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs, Honourable Hamat N.K. Bah, described Kaur as a former major commercial hub whose economy declined due to decades of neglect. He said President Barrow will rebuild the town through a new port and modern road network.Minister Bah also warned Chiefs and Alkalolu to desist from allocating state lands to foreign individuals for agricultural purposes without approval from his Ministry. He said the government has approved a new Land Policy that protects state lands from encroachment, and warned that violators will face consequences.In his address, President Barrow thanked the people of Nianija, Lower and Upper Saloum for the massive turnout, describing it as a vote of confidence in his leadership.On women’s empowerment, he said the additional D50 million for women farmers and entrepreneurs will bring his government’s total allocation to women to D100 million.On energy, President Barrow said his government has achieved unprecedented expansion in the last nine years, with contracts already signed for the remaining unelectrified communities in CRR. The announcement was greeted with applause.From Kaur, the entourage proceeded to Kalen Jawbeh in Sami Constituency, where thousands staged a massive reception.Community leaders in Sami and Niani also praised the government for life-changing projects, noting that 63 villages in the area now have electricity. They, however, cited insecurity, robbery and cattle rustling as major challenges and appealed for a PIU post to address the problem.At the same meeting, Kuntaur Area Council Chairman, Saihou Jawara, presented eight motorbikes to community health workers to ease mobility and improve rural healthcare delivery.Responding, President Barrow said 204 villages have been connected to the grid in the last nine years, compared to only 40 villages in 52 years under the Jawara and Jammeh administrations. He said the remaining eight villages will soon be connected and urged patience.On security, President Barrow assured that the government takes the matter seriously and will deploy a PIU unit to fight robbery and cattle rustling in border areas.He appealed for massive support in the December election, saying the vote will determine whether Gambians choose progress or a return to underdevelopment. He cautioned supporters against overconfidence and urged hard work to secure a resounding victory for the Grand Alliance.He thanked the people of Sami and Niani for the huge turnout despite the late hour, expressing hope that the support will translate into votes.

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