The 30th United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP30) officially opened in Belém, Brazil, bringing together global leaders, negotiators, and stakeholders to accelerate climate action.
Honourable Rohey John Manjang, The Gambia's Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, who is leading The Gambia’s delegation, called for access to climate finance to strengthen the country’s resilience and adaptation to climate change.
“The Gambia has developed ambitious climate policies and strategies, but access to adequate and predictable financing remains crucial for achieving our national targets,” she said.
This year’s COP focuses on turning commitments into concrete implementation, with priorities including mobilising large-scale climate finance, enhancing global climate governance, accelerating Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and scaling up adaptation efforts in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva the President of Brazil, in his opening address emphasised that, “for this year’s COP to matter, it must be the COP of Truth and Implementation. We are moving in the right direction, but at the wrong speed. We must turn commitments into concrete actions,” he said.
The host presidency has set an ambitious goal of mobilising US$1.3 trillion annually by 2035 to support developing countries in meeting their climate goals.
For nations like The Gambia, access to climate finance remains a critical enabler of adaptation, supporting initiatives that build climate-resilient agriculture, restore mangrove ecosystems, protect coastlines, and enhance water resource management.
However, limited technical capacity, complex access procedures, and data challenges are reportedly hindering progress.
Minister Manjang reaffirmed The Gambia’s unwavering commitment to climate action and called on the global community to work collaboratively to ensure that no country is left behind in the fight against climate change.
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The Gambia Police Force has arrested a 26-year-old suspect, Sulayman Saidykhan, in connection with the alleged murder of Fatou Sambou, a 40-year-old resident of Kembujeh Madina. The victim was found with injuries to her head and hand on her groundnut farm behind the Brikama Power Station on December 2.Thanks to the robust efforts of the police and timely support from stakeholder institutions, investigators were able to track and trace the victim's stolen mobile phone, ultimately leading to the suspect's arrest. Saidykhan, an ex-soldier with a previous criminal conviction, was found in possession of the deceased's mobile phone.The suspect has been cautioned, charged, and detained, while investigations continue to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The Gambia Police Force reassures the public that a thorough, impartial, and professional investigation will be conducted to ensure justice is served.The police acknowledge the support of all stakeholders whose cooperation contributed to the swift arrest of the suspect. The public can rest assured that the police are working diligently to bring perpetrators of such heinous crimes to justice.
President Adama Barrow has received a significant donation from Qatar Charity, consisting of 130 cargo tricycles, 130 'tuk-tuk', and 100 diesel-powered milling machines. The donation, worth millions of dollars, is aimed at empowering vulnerable communities and promoting economic growth in The Gambia.The donated items will be deployed in partnership with the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), civil society organisations, and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare. The project aligns with the government's YIRIWA agenda, focusing on improving livelihoods and promoting economic growth.Qatar Charity has implemented projects in The Gambia worth USD 5 million since 2019, covering education, health, water, sanitation, and support for vulnerable families. The latest phase of the economic empowerment program focuses on rural employment and women's development.President Barrow expressed profound appreciation for the donation, describing it as a reflection of true international solidarity. He praised Qatar Charity for demonstrating a deep commitment to strengthening vulnerable communities and upholding human dignity.The Qatari Ambassador to The Gambia, H.E. Abdallah Jassim Al Kabi, also presented school bags with stationery items to school-going orphans during the ceremony, further highlighting the charity's commitment to supporting education and vulnerable populations.
The President H.E. Adama Barrow held a meeting in Bakau, as he wraps up his annual Meet the People Tour in the Kanifing Municipality. President Barrow called on Bakau to abandon its age-old loyalty to the opposition and embrace his government to accelerate national development, foster unity and enhance stability. The rally drew a massive turnout with crowds of young people and women receiving the President and entourage at the main intersection leading to the venue.After the usual welcome ceremonies, the Alkalo of Bakau Doudou Bojang made a passionate appeal to the people to change course and embrace the government of President Adama Barrow. “Decades in the opposition have brought us nothing. We should draw inspiration from others and turn a new page,” the Alkalo said. He cited the various development projects across the country, undertaken by the President and appealed to the government to replicate them in Bakau.This was re-echoed by several other speakers, including Mariama Sanneh, the lady councillor, Mabinta Badji, the constituency mobiliser, Fafa Sanyang and Fatou Darboe. They all called for a shift in politics to dismantle Bakau's reputation as an “opposition stronghold” by embracing the NPP. Such political realignment, the speakers added will “usher in a new era of development for this coastal settlement.” They also deplored the poor state of infrastructure in the town, with most neighbourhoods prone to flooding during the rainy season. This state of affairs, the people of Bakau lament, is “unsustainable and needs urgent action to modernise the town.”Unda Nyang, a senior member of the NPP, appealed to the government to expedite renovation works of the Independence Stadium to enable the Gambia to host home games and boost chances of qualification for major tournaments. The executive coordinator for the Kanifing Municipality, Bakary Singhateh lauded the President and his government for the many development projects in the Municipality that have greatly improved the lives and livelihoods of the people. The Minister for Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie, disclosed that the government has spent funds to renovate and modernise the Independence Stadium, adding that works will be completed by March of next year. He defended the slow pace of the works, arguing that since it's construction 40 years ago, the stadium has never been renovated. The sports minister urged the people of the Municipality to hold the Kanifing Municipal Council to account, adding that since assuming office, the Council has not undertaken any meaningful development initiative to plough back taxes to the people. The Minister for Health, Dr Ahmadou Lamin Samateh, disclosed that the government will build a health post in Bakau to provide primary health care to the people. President Adama Barrow called Bakau a “historic settlement that has played a prominent role in the political life of the country,” but reassured that as President he does not discriminate against any community.He pledged to modernise Bakau by replicating the Banjul project to construct all the roads, drainage and sewage systems. Responding to appeals from the women, the President instructed the Fisheries Ministry to provide two fishing boats to the community of Bakau. He also announced that seven selected youths will be awarded D100,000 each to venture into economic activities. The President also demanded accountability from the KMC, urging taxpayers to demand that the Municipal authorities invest in projects that will improve the lives of the people. President Barrow finally paid tribute to his longtime political mentor, Dembo Bojang, who died a few months ago. He described the late politician as a political heavyweight who dominated politics in Bakau and stood by him during the most trying times of his political journey. The President described him as a “great patriot, who loved Bakau and always worked for the interest of his people.” He concluded by thanking Bakau for welcoming him with a massive reception, and promised a brighter future for the town and its inhabitants
His Excellency Adama Barrow, the President of the Republic of The Gambia, has reassured Gambians that his government is committed to renovating the iconic Independence Stadium to international standards. The President made the remarks after visiting the stadium in Bakau to assess the ongoing renovation works, which are designed to upgrade infrastructure and services to the required FIFA standards. The President also laid the foundation stone of a fish smoking market and toured the KG 5 mini stadium in Banjul The President first arrived at the proposed fish smoking site in Banjul, where he laid the foundation stone for the construction of a modern environmentally friendly fish smoking market. Until its demolition, the makeshift market was occupied by more than 60 women fish vendors who made a living by smoking fish for sale. During his tour last year, the President was approached by the women vendors who pleaded with him to construct a modern fish smoking facility for them. True to his promise, the President set up a committee headed by the Vice President to mobilise funds to construct the market.The contract for the construction of the market is supervised by Gamworks, the government agency for the management of public works. According to the Project Director, Elizabeth Carayol Ndong, the work entails the construction of modern and environmentally friendly smoke houses to cater for the needs of the women and vendors.The women vendors and fishermen expressed profound gratitude to the president for fulfilling his promise, adding that the new market will empower vendors and modernise fish handling and processing in Banjul.The regional coordinator for Banjul Ebrima Jawo described the development as another milestone for the city, which has seen unprecedented developments under President Barrow's leadership. He thanked the President and urged the women vendors to take advantage of this opportunity to contribute to the development of the city.The foundation-laying ceremony attracted wild celebrations from the women vendors, who cheered the President and thanked him for empowering them. Women play an important role in the Fisheries sector, mostly specialising in fish processing and handling. This modern market, specifically designed for smoking catfish, is expected to maximise and solidify Banjul's place as the foremost producer of one of the most prized catfish in The Gambia. The project is expected to finish within 6 months.The President later drove to the KG5 mini stadium, just a few hundred metres from the market, which is equally undergoing construction works to modernise the pitch to CAF standards. The President was received by notable Banjulians and representatives of the youth. Speaking to GRTS, the Project Manager from Gamworks, Sheriff Ndow, disclosed that works are now at the final stages after all the preparatory works have been completed.The youths of Banjul commended the President and his government for restoring the mini stadium to international standards. As the only football field in Banjul, this development, the youths argued, will enable the city to resume its nawettan tournament in earnest.President Barrow also thanked the youths for their patience and reassured them that the government will do everything possible to promote sports participation by providing the necessary infrastructure for young people. The President completed his tour of project sites with a visit to the Independence Stadium, where works are progressing to build the roads around the stadium as required by the continental football body CAF.President Barrow was briefed by contractors and site supervisors on the progress of the works, with assurances that they will be completed by the end of this month. This development will lay to rest speculation about the state of affairs at the country's only stadium, which has been undergoing massive renovation and modernisation works. The President called for patience and reassured that the government is committed to ensuring that all works meet international standards as required by Caf and FIFA.He thanked all stakeholders for the hard work and tasked them to ensure the timely completion of the works to enable the country to host football matches at home.
Former Gambia Armed Forces member Sanna Manjang, accused of human rights abuses under ex-president Yahya Jammeh, faces three murder counts from 2005-2006, including the killings of Dayda Hydara, Ndong Mboob, and Haruna Jammeh. The case has been transferred to the High Court, with Manjang remanded to Mile II Central Prison.
Sanna Manjang, a former member of the notorious "Junglers" hit squad, has been extradited to The Gambia from Senegal, where he was arrested on November 29, 2025.Manjang is accused of gross human rights violations during former President Yahya Jammeh's rule, including torture, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings. He was handed over to the Gambia Armed Forces Military Police by the Senegalese Military at Giboro village under heavy armed presence.Senegalese and Gambian authorities taking pictures before the handover: “Manjang is named in the findings of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission for his central role in torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings carried out by the Junglers.”The extradition marks a significant step in The Gambia's pursuit of justice and accountability for past human rights abuses. Sanna's arrest and extradition demonstrate the country's commitment to holding perpetrators accountable and providing closure for victims and their families.WHAT NEXT?Manjang is expected to face legal proceedings in The Gambia, where he will be processed in accordance with the law. His extradition and potential prosecution serve as a testament to the country's determination to confront its past and ensure accountability for human rights abuses.
The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) has announced a groundbreaking revenue collection of D584,414,478.30 from January to October 2025, representing a 112% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This impressive performance surpasses the annual total collection of 2024, which stood at D420,219,024.00, marking a 39% increase.The revenue was generated through the Gambia Biometric Identification System, Immigration Fees, and the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS). According to the GID, this achievement underscores the crucial role the department plays in strengthening the government's consolidated revenue base.The GID has expanded the accessibility of national documents to Gambians, both at home and abroad, reaffirming the government's commitment to safeguarding the rights of Gambians. The department is also accelerating the rollout of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC), easing identification and regional integration.Despite this significant achievement, the GID continues to face challenges, including resource constraints, mobility challenges, and legislative gaps that affect the effective implementation of immigration management and border governance. The department is committed to curbing irregular migration, promoting access to legal identity, and building the capacity of immigration staff to sustain a robust, efficient, and service-driven institution.GID Director General Ebrima Mboob reaffirmed the department's commitment to closing revenue leakages, embracing technology, and upholding standards in immigration law. The GID calls on local authorities, landlords, and communities to remain vigilant and support the department in the enforcement of alien registration and safeguarding the territorial sovereignty of The Gambia.
The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) has welcomed a high-level delegation from the Sierra Leone National Revenue Authority (SLNRA) for a strategic study tour focused on implementing the SICPA digital excise tax stamp solution. This visit marks the first time SLNRA has sent its top officials to engage with GRA counterparts in The Gambia, highlighting the country's growing reputation as a regional leader in taxation.The study tour aims to strengthen cooperation between the two institutions and provide a platform for GRA officials to share their experience in advancing revenue collection in a digital era. The visiting delegation will learn about the SICPA project's implementation, including the legal frameworks used to enforce its implementation, and participate in field tours to gain first-hand knowledge of the project's impact.The GRA's experience with the SICPA project has positioned The Gambia as a model for regional taxation, and this visit will enable SLNRA officials to learn from their counterparts and enhance revenue collection in Sierra Leone. This five-day exchange visit underscores the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing between revenue authorities in the region.
President Adama Barrow has paid tribute to the brave Senegalese riflemen who were massacred by French colonial forces in Thiaroye, Senegal, during World War II. Speaking at the 81st anniversary commemoration of the infamous Thiaroye Massacre, President Barrow called for accountability for crimes committed by colonial empires against Africans during the colonial period.The ceremony, attended by several high-ranking delegations from across Africa, shines a spotlight on one of the most brutal acts of betrayal and barbarity in colonial history. Over 300 Senegalese riflemen were massacred by French colonial forces for demanding pay after liberating France from Nazi Germany.President Barrow described the massacre as a "cold-blooded murder" and paid homage to the Africans who fought on the side of the Allies during World War II, commending them for their courage and sacrifice. He also commended the Senegalese government for setting up a committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the massacre and immortalise the exploits of Senegalese soldiers who participated in the liberation of France.The Gambian leader emphasised the importance of teaching future generations about the sacrifices and contributions of Africans in the Second World War, adding that their legacy should serve as valuable lessons for Africans to take hold of their destiny.The President of Senegal, Basirou Diomaye Faye, thanked President Barrow for gracing the commemorations and reaffirmed his government's commitment to work closely with France to find closure to one of the darkest chapters in French colonial history.
The Gambia has taken a significant step in promoting sustainable forest and wildlife management in Africa by hosting the 25th Session of the African Forestry and Wildlife Commission and the Ninth African Forestry and Wildlife Week in Banjul. The conference, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, brought together government officials and around 200 delegates from 47 African countries to discuss the continent's most pressing forestry and wildlife challenges and opportunities.With the theme "Innovative and Inclusive Forest and Wildlife Resources Management for Africa," the five-day conference aims to explore ways to address the major problems facing Africa's tropical forests, including forest degradation, commercial logging, and ineffective government policies in environmental protection. African forests are rich in biodiversity and provide a livelihood for over 1 billion people, according to experts.The Gambia's Vice President, Mohammed B.S. Jallow, who presided over the opening ceremony, called on partners to continue supporting African countries in their wildlife management efforts. "I call on our development partners, international organisations, civil society, and the private sector, to continue supporting African countries in advancing sustainable forest and wildlife management," he said.VP Jallow highlighted the Gambia's progress in protecting endangered species, saying that forest degradation has been "slowed, while reforestation is on the increase." He attributed this success to the government's efforts to expand protected areas, enforce regulations, and combat illegal hunting, poaching, and wildlife trafficking.This conference is a testament to The Gambia's leadership in conservation, sustainable land use, and environmental governance. Key stakeholders, including the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the United Nations, have expressed their commitment to supporting the country's efforts."FAO stands firm in supporting Member States to advance national priorities, mobilise resources, and ensure that forestry, wildlife protection, and climate action remain central to sustainable development and the 2030 Agenda," said Ms Moshibudi Rampedi, FAO Representative in The Gambia.The convergence will provide a platform for delegates to exchange ideas and build a stronger, more coherent African response to environmental shocks. With Africa losing about “4 million hectares of forest every year,” the stakes are high, and the need for collective action is urgent.Gambia's Environment Minister, Rohey Jonh Manjang, emphasised the government's commitment to protecting forests and wildlife, saying, "Through the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, we have intensified efforts to restore degraded lands, enforce anti-logging laws, and halt the export of timber."The conference is expected to yield concrete recommendations and actions to address the challenges facing Africa's forestry and wildlife sectors and promote sustainable development on the continent.
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