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STRENGTHENING HEALTHCARE DELIVERY: UNFPA & HSA HAND OVER MEDICAL EQUIPMENT TO HEALTH MINISTRY

The Ministry of Health recently received a consignment of medical equipment from the United Nations Fund for Population Affairs (UNFPA) and the Health Security Agency(HSA) based in the United Kingdom. The donation is earmarked to strengthen efficacy in healthcare services across the country.The medical equipment includes a consignment of 60 delivery beds, five anesthetic machines, 10 oxygen containers and 1000 dignity beds amongst a host of others procured through the China Aid Project, aimed at strengthening effective healthcare services across the country.Ndeye Rose Sarr, the UNFPA country representative said ‘UNFPA will reaffirm its unwavering commitment to supporting the government of the Gambia in the provision ofessential health services, especially for representative health and rights of women.’The handing over of these medical items also marks the culmination of the china aid Project, which has been providing support mechanisms in diverse areas building human capital including sexual and reproductive health services and protection of healthcare workers during the COVID pandemic.The Chinese ambassador to the Gambia, Liu Jin, said, China is one of the strongest development partners of Gambia. The ambassador added that since 2020,’ the Chinese government has donated six million dollars worth of assistance to the Gambia’s healthsector, in the form of projects and medical equipment supplies.’Doctor Ahmadou Lamin Samateh, Gambia’s Health Minister hailed the Chinese missionin the Gambia and UNFPA for the support he said will ‘ease critical healthcareconditions.’‘The items we received here are remarkable. 60 delivery beds, that's very big. What that means is that, these women now can deliver on a proper delivery bed. The staff will beable to deliver the women without straining their back, that has been a very difficult thingin this country,’ he added.In a separate but similar engagement the National Public Health Laboratory under the auspices of the Ministry of Health, also received a consignment of bio safety and lab equipment from the Health Security Agency based in the UK.Sheriffo Jagne, the director of the National Public Health Laboratory said the donatedlab items will critically uplift the capacity of bio laboratory services.Dr Bunmi Negedu Momoh, speaking at the handover ceremony on behalf of the UKHealth Security Agency said her organisation is committed to supporting sustainable development in the Gambia.The medical equipment handed to the Health Ministry will significantly complement the government's efforts to improve health services, curtailing the burden of inadequate medical care and emergencies across various hospitals in the country.

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STATE-OWNED ENTERPRISE COMMISSION VISITS GRTS

The State-Owned Enterprise Commission (SOE) Commissioners, who are on a fact-finding mission, visited the Gambia Radio and Television Services to understand the achievements and challenges facing the National Broadcaster in its mandate to provide services to the public. Charles Mustapha Camara, the Board Chair of GRTS, who received the delegation at the GRT headquarters on the MDI Road in Kanifing, hailed the partnership between GRTS and SOE Commission as invaluable, highlighting the importance of the visit.‘This visit provides us with an opportunity to share our progress, challenges and vision for the future. We look forward to receiving your guidance, suggestions and continuous support as we strive to improve our services and expand our reach in this rapidly evolving media landscape,’ he said. ‘We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and ethical journalism. We are continuously innovating, striving for excellence and ensuring that our services remain accessible to all Gambians regardless of their location, background or social status’ the Board Chair added.After a closed-door meeting, GRTS officials took commissioners on a tour of the technical operation units where the team inspected the studios, control room and data centre. Ousainou Ngum, the chairman of the SOE Commission, shared positive impressions of the National broadcaster. ‘It has been a source of huge education for us. We certainly had an image of GRTS before we came, but seeing what they work with, they are managing to modernize in a not-so-modernized world, and they are doing so diligently and delivering quality programming in that process. That has been quite moving for us’ he stated. The commissioners also visited the State Broadcasters radio station at Mile 7, to inspect the country's first broadcasting outfit that was established in 1971.The visiting delegation toured the radio facilities, which are also grappling with age-old machines unable to catch up with modern-day broadcasting. SOE Commissioners were able to gather first-hand information on efforts to transform and modernize GRTS operations amidst obsolete equipment and financial constraints. ‘Our task is to make sure that whatever service is provided is fit for purpose for the population of which we are also part. We are all citizens who benefit from these services so we need to make them work for the benefit of everyone.’‘We have come, listened and learned. We will go and incorporate that, have a conversation among ourselves and come back to them. It's an ongoing conversation to build better for the future,’ Ousainou Ngum said.At the end of the tour, SOE Commissioners reflected on the historic contributions of the radio, as the main source of news, current affairs and entertainment for audiences across the country. Both sides expressed a stronger commitment to deepening collaboration to address pressing challenges facing the national broadcaster.The SOE Commission was established in 2023 through an act of parliament with an oversight mandate to oversee, regulate and support the effective management of the twelve state-owned enterprises in the Gambia, of which GRTS is part. 

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2025 HAJJ PACKAGE PEGS AT D525,000

The National Hajj Commission has set the 2025 Hajj package at five hundred and twenty-five thousand dalasi.

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GOVERNMENT AWARDS OVER 1,000 SCHOLARSHIPS TO TVET STUDENTS

 The Government of The Gambia, through the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (MoHERST), in collaboration with the World Bank and the RISE Project, has awarded 1,087 scholarships to students across 25 public and private Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. The total value of these scholarships amounts to GMD 396,761,321.50.Each scholarship provides $400 per student, covering tuition fees and stipends, with additional financial assistance offered to students from regional TVET centres to address transportation and accommodation costs.During the award ceremony, President Adama Barrow emphasized the government's commitment to implementing a robust monitoring system aimed at achieving an 80% employability rate among the scholarship recipients. This initiative is designed to address the pressing issue of youth and women unemployment in the country.President Barrow also outlined further initiatives aimed at enhancing the capabilities of TVET institutions. He announced the forthcoming launch of Window One (1) of the Fund, which will offer grants to TVET institutions for the development of high-quality infrastructure and equipment. The objective is to bolster the technical and teaching capacities of vocational training centres.Additionally, Window Three (3) is set to be launched in the last quarter of 2025 to provide startup support and mentorship for the youth. These three funding windows are strategically designed to elevate the quality of The Gambia's TVET programs to align with the needs of the labour market.The awards ceremony, which celebrated the potential of youth and their educational pursuits, was graced by the presence of His Excellency President Adama Barrow at the Sir Dawda International Conference Centre.

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CONFIRMED, RAMADAN BEGINS ON MARCH 1 2025

The Gambia Supreme Islamic Council has confirmed that the Crescent has been sighted in Garawol in the Upper River Region. It has also confirmed receiving verified information about the sighting of the Crescent in Mali, Senegal, Niger, Ivory Coast, and Saudi Arabia. This officially confirms that the Muslim holy month of Ramadan will begin on Saturday, 1st March 2025, in The Gambia. The Management and Staff of GRTS wish to seize this opportunity to wish Muslims around the world a blessed and peaceful Ramadan.

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  • GRTS
  • February 28, 2025 10:16
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SPORTS COMMENTATOR DONATES AVOCADO SAPLING TO GRTS SPORTS UNIT

On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, Besenty Gomez, a prominent contributor to the Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS) Multisports programme, graciously donated an avocado sapling to the GRTS Multisports unit. This gesture aligns with the theme of World Radio Day 2025: "Radio and Climate Change." Mr Gomez emphasized the importance of encouraging local sports administrations to engage in tree planting initiatives at their respective venues, thereby contributing to broader efforts aimed at mitigating climate change.The presentation took place in the studios of GRTS TV after the programme. He remarked, “To achieve true independence, one must be self-reliant. This tree symbolizes that. As a fruit-bearing tree, its planting will yield fruits that can be consumed, and the seeds can be utilized for further planting, allowing for multiplication.” Mr. Gomez further noted, “Trees provide essential shade and oxygen. It is crucial to recognize the reality of climate change, and it is imperative for individuals, including those within the sports community, to actively participate in climate change adaptation initiatives.” The sapling will be planted on the premises of the National Broadcaster's headquarters, located on MDI Road in Kanifing.

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  • GRTS
  • February 20, 2025 01:16
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TRADE MINISTRY, BAKERS UNION REACH TENTATIVE AGREEMENT

The initial discussions between the National Bakers Union and the Ministry of Trade have resulted in an agreement to maintain the current price of bread at D10 until the rationale behind the proposed increase from the Bakers Union is clearly defined.A technical review committee, composed of officials from the Ministry of Trade, members of the Consumer Protection Competition Commission, and representatives from the National Bakers Union, is scheduled to conduct a nationwide assessment of the pricing structure for bread.Furthermore, discussions between the Bakers Union and the Ministry of Trade aimed at reaching a consensus on bread pricing will continue weekly following the Independence Celebrations.

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  • GRTS
  • February 17, 2025 11:16
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Independence Celebrations Coverage Alert

As we prepare to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of our nation's independence, we are pleased to announce that we will provide live coverage of the day's significant events.This coverage will include the arrival of dignitaries at the airport, a vibrant march parade, the Independence Athletics competition at Serrekunda West Park, and the evening Wrestling Competition.We invite you to join us throughout the day for thorough coverage of the country’s 60th Independence Anniversary celebrations.Wishing everyone a joyous and meaningful Independence Day.

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  • GRTS
  • February 17, 2025 11:10
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GRTS EMERGES VICTORIOUS IN CYBERSECURITY DRILL

The GRTS IT staff demonstrated exceptional skill and teamwork, securing first place on the final day of the Cybersecurity Training conducted by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority. This achievement not only highlights the team’s unwavering dedication but also underscores their expertise and commitment to advancing digital security protocols within the organization. GRTS Management extends heartfelt congratulations to the IT team for their remarkable performance. They reaffirm their ongoing support for the team’s efforts, ensuring that the institution continues to excel and achieve its highest objectives in the ever-evolving digital landscape. This commitment is crucial as GRTS strives to enhance its cybersecurity measures and maintain the integrity of its operations in a critical industry.

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  • GRTS
  • February 17, 2025 12:05
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URGENT NOTICE TO OUR VALUED VIEWERS AND FOLLOWERS

We want to bring to your immediate attention that recent posts circulating a video featuring a purported AI voice prompt on the website 1XGames, which claims to showcase GRTS content, should be disregarded. We would like to clarify that the audio content of this video, generated by artificial intelligence, has no affiliation whatsoever with GRTS or any of our official content on Facebook or any other online platforms. This material does not reflect our standards or the integrity of our programming.The management of GRTS is dedicated to its core mission of informing, educating, and entertaining our audience with high-quality, authentic content. We assure you that any official updates, news, or entertainment will always be communicated through our verified channels.We encourage you to follow us via our television broadcasts, radio channels, and our official online platforms for the latest news and updates directly from GRTS. Thank you for your ongoing support and trust.

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  • GRTS
  • February 14, 2025 02:02
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PRESS RELEASE

 AUB 2nd Media Summit on Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Summit in Dakar As the world gears up to celebrate Radio Day, the African Union of Broadcasting (AUB), in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the Senegalese Radio Television (RTS), is organizing a summit on Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction 13th -14th February in Dakar Senegal. The forum under the theme "Reaching the last mile: Radio for Climate Action" seeks to explore the important role of radio in the fight against climate change. The Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, is scheduled to lead a high-powered Gambian delegation to the summit comprising The Director General of GRTS, Abdoulie Sey, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Information Amie Njie, the   Director of Admin and Human Resources GRTS Yankuba Jatta and the Director of Radio Programmes GRTS Haddy Badji.A press release from the AUB states that radio remains an essential tool to disseminate vital information on climate change and encourage prevention given its resilience, portability and ability to reach a wide audience, especially in rural areas and isolated communities.

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  • AUB
  • February 10, 2025 12:41
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AFRICAN SPORTS MINISTERS PAY COURTESY CALL TO PRESIDENT BARROW AT STATE HOUSE

Following the successful conclusion of the Inter-regional African Ministerial Meeting on Anti-Doping in Sports, held at the International Conference Centre, representatives from the sub-region visited President Barrow on Tuesday afternoon to provide an update on the meeting's agenda.The primary objective of the anti-doping meeting was to establish a collaborative network aimed at enhancing sports governance, thereby promoting clean sports and upholding the ethics and integrity of athletes against the use of prohibited substances.On behalf of the government and the people of The Gambia, President Barrow expressed his deep appreciation to the delegates for selecting The Gambia as the host for this significant event. He emphasized the crucial role of sports in fostering economic growth and national development, noting its capacity to promote unity and strengthen national cohesion.As a signatory to the anti-doping convention, alongside 191 other countries, President Barrow assured the delegates of his unwavering commitment to supporting efforts that safeguard the integrity of sports. He underscored that achieving success in this field necessitates the implementation of robust safeguarding policies.The Minister for Youth and Sport, Honourable Bakary Y. Badjie, expressed gratitude for the support extended by the President and the government towards initiatives that advance sports development. He advocated for the implementation of drug testing across all sporting levels to eliminate the use of performance-enhancing substances, highlighting the detrimental impact that substance abuse has on athletes and national achievements.The meeting also featured ministers from various sub-regions, who conveyed their gratitude to the President for his supportive role during the event and his visionary approach to this important agenda.

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PRESIDENT BARROW INAUGURATES DEMBA KUNDA - BASSE ROAD, LAYS FOUNDATION FOR FOOTBALL FIELD

President Adama Barrow on Saturday inaugurated the Demba Kunda–Numuyel–Manneh Kunda–Basse road at a grand ceremony in Demba Kunda attended by thousands of people from Jimara and Basse.The 14-kilometre road provides a vital corridor for beneficiary communities, enhancing access to markets, health facilities, schools and other social services. The project underscores President Barrow's commitment to road infrastructure as a foundation for sustainable socio-economic development.After nearly two years of construction, the road linking Basse to Manneh Kunda, Demba Kunda and Numuyel was officially opened. The President, flanked by the Minister of Works, officials of the National Roads Authority (NRA) and community leaders, cut the ribbon to mark the inauguration.The road is fully funded by the Government under the Rural Roads Infrastructure Project, which seeks to decentralise development to communities across the country.Wild CelebrationsAfter the ribbon-cutting, President Barrow drove through the new road to Demba Kunda. Crowds lined both sides of the road, cheering and thanking the President for fulfilling one of the most pressing needs of Jimara and Basse.As he approached Demba Kunda, thousands of people welcomed him with great fanfare and excitement, escorting him to the meeting grounds where elders lined up to greet him.The Alkalo of Demba Kunda, 94-year-old Alhaji Degumeh Ceesay Camara, went down memory lane, recalling when travelling from Demba Kunda to Numuyel and Basse was a nightmare."In the past, it took a whole day to travel from Demba Kunda to Basse, but now it takes minutes," the Alkalo said with pride, as he expressed profound gratitude to President Barrow for his commitment to the welfare of the people.He challenged the people of Demba Kunda, Numuyel, Manneh Kunda and Basse to vote for President Barrow, describing it as a duty and responsibility to enable him to continue his development agenda.Similar calls were made by the representative of the Chief of Jimara, Alhaji Julaba Ceesay, youth representative Swaibou Jagana, and women's representative Fatumata Kanteh. The speakers said all 87 villages in the area are united in their desire to keep President Barrow in power, describing the upcoming December 5 election as a foregone conclusion.They hailed the road as a major milestone that will open up Demba Kunda and Numuyel to the rest of the country.Veteran politician and NPP Regional Chairman, Alhaji Bubu Drammeh, praised President Barrow for the landmark development, noting the dramatic reduction in travel time."It used to take 25 minutes to travel just 3 kilometres to Basse. Now it takes only 3 minutes to reach the regional capital," Bubu said to loud applause. He predicted a landslide victory for President Barrow, saying his development track record is unmatched in Gambian history.The National Assembly Member for Jimara, Hon. Essa Conteh, and the Governor of URR, Samba Bah, also commended the President for transforming the Upper River Region through roads, schools, health facilities and electricity, and both predicted a landslide victory in December.Built to Last 20 YearsThe Managing Director of the National Roads Authority, Sulayman Sumareh, said the 14km road is built to the highest quality standards and can last 20 years. Given its strategic location, he said the road is fitted with proper drainage to address perennial flooding in Numuyel and Demba Kunda, and will also be fitted with solar streetlights. He advised motorists to use the road with care.In his inaugural address, President Barrow said the road is more than a physical link."It brings better access, greater economic opportunity, easier movement, and a stronger connection between rural communities and the national road network," the President said.He noted that the people of Demba Kunda and Numuyel have long grappled with a poor road network that hampered development, but expressed confidence that the new road will enable them to realise their full potential.President Barrow reaffirmed infrastructure as a key priority of his government, with emphasis on decentralisation to reach every community. He, however, admonished road users and motorists to use the road responsibly and respect safety regulations.He expressed satisfaction with the quality of work and promised to expand the road network in Jimara and the wider URR, disclosing that 380km of roads are earmarked for construction if given another mandate.He appealed to the people of Jimara to vote for him and called on all Gambians to exercise their franchise in December, saying the stakes are very high and the outcome will determine the future of the country.The President later proceeded to lay the foundation stone for the construction of the Demba Kunda football field.

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PRESIDENT BARROW'S RALLY IN ALLUNHARI CUT SHORT FOLLOWING DEATH OF FULLADU EAST CHIEF

President Adama Barrow's political rally in Allunhari was cut short on Monday following the death of the Chief of Fulladu East, Saibeh Hammeh Minteh Krubally.Chief Krubally reportedly passed away an hour before the rally was due to start.The community of Allunhari had organised a massive rally to endorse President Barrow and the NPP-led Grand Alliance ahead of the December 5 presidential election. Thousands of supporters, including elders, women and youth, turned out in a show of force following days of intense mobilisation.As the President's motorcade approached Allunhari, it was met by thousands of enthusiastic supporters who lined and blocked the road, singing and chanting slogans in support of the President.Among the prominent indigenes present were the Honorary Consul General in Gabon, Saikou Dukureh, his wife Haja Dukureh, and Muhammadu Conteh, a prominent businessman and philanthropist based in Lomé, Togo.However, moments after the President entered the rally grounds, news of the chief's death spread.Bajoko Drammeh, spokesperson for the Alkalo of Allunhari, announced the death in an emotional tone, expressing profound grief over the loss.The announcement dampened the mood of the gathering. The late Chief Krubally was a highly respected figure in Allunhari and across the wider Upper River and Central River Regions, and his passing overshadowed the event.Following consultations between community elders and the President, it was agreed that the rally be called off as a mark of respect.The Imam of Allunhari, Alhaji Ebrima Kaba, paid tribute to the late chief and offered prayers for the deceased.Speaking on behalf of the President, the National President of the NPP, Musa Drammeh, said President Barrow was deeply saddened by the news and could not deliver a speech. On behalf of the President, his government and the Gambian people, Minister Drammeh extended condolences to the bereaved family and announced the abrupt end of the rally. President Barrow left Allunhari in a sombre mood, seen off by elders and thousands of supporters.

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ITALY DONATES 40 VEHICLES TO GAMBIA SECURITY SERVICES

President Adama Barrow on Monday presented a fleet of 40 vehicles to the Ministry of Interior for onward distribution to security services.The vehicles were donated by the Government of Italy under an existing bilateral cooperation agreement with the Ministry of Interior aimed at strengthening The Gambia's security services.The presentation ceremony was held at State House and attended by security service chiefs and senior government officials.President Barrow handed over the vehicles to the Minister of Interior, Hon. Abdoulie Sanyang.Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, the Director General of The Gambia Immigration Department, Ebrima Mboob, described the partnership between The Gambia's security apparatus and their Italian counterparts as fruitful.He said the donation is timely and will strengthen the work of the security forces, improve mobility and expand their operational reach.Mr Mboob thanked the Minister of Interior for his support to the Immigration Department and the Police, and expressed gratitude to the Government of Italy for its continued assistance to the police and immigration in capacity building, border management and document security.The bilateral cooperation between The Gambia and Italy in the security sector has been ongoing for more than a decade.

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PRESIDENT BARROW INAUGURATES D1.9BN KABADA ROADS PROJECT

President Adama Barrow has officially inaugurated the Kabada roads project, a 102km road network connecting over 29 communities to the Trans-Gambia Highway and the Soma transit hub.The D1.9 billion project, entirely funded by the government, was awarded to Chinese firm Longjing Road and Bridge Company, which completed the works 13 months ahead of schedule. It is the first major road project in this remote part of the country in over 52 years.President Barrow, surrounded by officials and community leaders, performed the symbolic ribbon-cutting at a historic ceremony in Sibito, the main settlement of Kabada, marking the official opening of what has been described as a first-class road network linking more than 25 communities to the main commercial corridor of Jarra Soma.The completion of the project triggered wild celebrations in Kabada, with residents trooping to Sibito for the inauguration.Decades of Isolation EndThe Alkalo of Sibito, Fabubu Baj, was overwhelmed with emotion as he welcomed the President. He recalled decades of struggle and isolation, where poor road conditions meant little vehicular traffic and residents relied on horse and donkey carts to navigate dusty tracks.That situation, he said, persisted for decades until President Barrow fulfilled his promise to construct all roads within Kabada. He expressed immense gratitude to the President and pledged that Kabada would repay him at the ballot box in the December 5 presidential election. "Their ballot boxes will come to Kabada empty but will leave empty," he said, referring to the opposition.That sentiment was echoed by all speakers, including youth representative Ousman Jawo, women's representative Mariama Bah, Chief Lang Sanyang of Kiang Central, National Assembly Member Hon. Yunusa Bah, and Hulaymatou Jallow. They said the road network will open new economic opportunities, create trade corridors, and improve access to markets and social services, while also commending the President for providing electricity, water and ambulances to Kabada.Hon. Musa Njadoe, former National Assembly Member and now head of the Kabada Development Association in the United States, shed tears of joy, describing the project as life-changing. He accused the Jawara and Jammeh administrations of neglecting Kabada despite repeatedly winning elections there, and praised President Barrow for delivering roads within eight years.Quality and StandardThe Managing Director of the National Roads Authority, Sulayman Sumareh, described the Kabada roads as among the best quality in the country, built to international standards to last. He urged communities to take ownership and strictly observe road safety regulations.In his statement, President Barrow underscored the importance of road infrastructure to national development, stressing that his government prioritises infrastructure as a vehicle for sustainable socio-economic growth.He disclosed that the 102km Kabada road is solely government-funded at D1.9 billion and connects 29 communities."The government felt the need to build the Kabada roads as part of its inclusive approach to development," President Barrow said, noting that roads create opportunities, open corridors for farmers, and enhance access to social services.He commended Longjing Road and Bridge Company for completing the project in 36 months instead of the contracted 48 months, describing the delivery as unprecedented. He advised motorists and road users to observe speed limits and traffic rules.President Barrow assured the people of Kabada that his government would continue to deliver development to decentralise growth and connect the entire country, promising to extend the project to the other side of Kabada."This long arm of development will reach every part of the country," he said, while urging Kabada to vote for continuity and progress.The state-of-the-art Kabada road is fitted with solar streetlights and other modern road furniture. Alongside electricity and water now available across the region, the once isolated and underdeveloped area has, in just three years, seen its fortunes transformed.

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PRESIDENT BARROW WARNS BANJUL NORTH NAM OVER STATE HOUSE PROTEST, GIFTS D1M TO WOMEN'S GROUPS

President Adama Barrow has warned the National Assembly Member for Banjul North of serious consequences if he leads protests to the State House again.The President issued the warning during the final meeting of his Meet the People Tour held at the Never Again Memorial Arch in Banjul, where thousands of supporters turned out.The event also saw the presentation of a D1 million cheque to eight women's groups in Banjul under the government's Women's Enterprise Development Fund.As with other legs of the tour, development and welfare issues dominated the discussions.Several prominent Banjulians, including Mass Axi Gaye, Pa Modou Mbye, youth representative and Lady Councillor Fatou Ngum, commended President Barrow for transforming the capital. They cited the Banjul Roads and Drainage Project as a lasting legacy that has rejuvenated the city after years of neglect, and pledged massive votes for the President in the December presidential election.Essa Faal of APP Sobeyaa said Banjul has changed thanks to massive investment in infrastructure. "Banjul has better and cleaner roads now, with its mosquito-infested gutters all covered," he said. He cited the new fish smoking market and the construction of the KG5 mini-stadium as further evidence of transformation.The former TRRC Lead Counsel defended his alliance with President Barrow, saying it came after careful reflection. He described Barrow as the only candidate with a proven development track record and noted his implementation of some TRRC recommendations. He predicted a landslide victory for the President in December.NPP Regional Chairman Alhaji Ousman Wadda and Deputy Mayor Aziz Dabakh Gaye also praised the President for the infrastructural transformation of Banjul, which they said will define his legacy. Mr Wadda disclosed that thousands of Banjulians have registered for the upcoming election and pledged victory for the President.The Deputy Mayor recalled past difficulties when residents had to be mobilised to clean open gutters, commending the President for taking up the challenge after decades of neglect.The meeting witnessed the presentation of D1 million to eight women's groups to support their economic activities under the Women's Enterprise Development Fund.The NAM for Banjul Central, Hon. Mam Abdoulie Njai, said President Barrow deserves another term given his development record over the past ten years. He appealed to the President to sponsor a football tournament to celebrate the completion of the KG5 mini-stadium, which he suggested should be renamed the Biri Biri Mini-Stadium in honour of the football icon.Regional Coordinator for Banjul, Ebrima Jawo, echoed similar sentiments and warned against the opposition. He also thanked the government for renovation works at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH), which he said have significantly improved services.Minister of Lands and Regional Government, Hon. Hamat N.K. Bah, praised President Barrow's inclusive leadership and commitment to people's welfare. He thanked partners and stakeholders for a successful tour and made a final appeal for Gambians to vote for President Barrow. He also defended the government's handling of the economy, arguing that prices of basic commodities are lower in The Gambia compared to neighbouring countries.President Warns Against ProtestsIn his closing remarks, President Barrow advised the media to be independent, responsible and neutral, noting their role in portraying a positive image of the country.Addressing the recent electricity protests in the capital, the President accused the NAM for Banjul North of mobilising teenagers for a candlelight vigil at the State House. He described such acts as treasonous and warned against actions that risk destabilising the country.He warned the lawmaker of serious consequences if repeated, and called on people to respect the law and the sanctity of State House as the seat of government. He urged the people of Banjul North to replace the NAM in the next election, accusing him of failing his constituents.President Barrow thanked the people of Banjul for the massive turnout and appealed for a massive voter turnout in December.

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PRESIDENT BARROW PROMISES BANJUL-STYLE ROADS PROJECT FOR SEREKUNDA, WARNS YOUTH AGAINST POLITICAL EXPLOITATION

President Adama Barrow has promised to replicate the Banjul Roads and Drainage Project in Serekunda to modernise one of The Gambia's largest urban centres.The President pledged at a meeting in Serekunda as his Meet the People Tour entered the Kanifing Municipality (KM). He also warned young people against allowing themselves to be used by politicians for selfish political ends.President Barrow and his entourage were warmly received as his motorcade approached Serekunda School football field, where thousands of supporters had gathered for the meeting.The gathering was dominated by calls for continued support for President Barrow and the NPP-led Alliance.The Alkalo of Bundung, Saikou Konateh, thanked the President for solving the persistent water problems in Bundung, noting that water is now available. He pledged to mobilise his constituents to vote for President Barrow as a show of gratitude.Veteran politician and native of Serekunda, Hon. Kebba Jallow, urged the people of KM to abandon the opposition and embrace the ruling alliance, which he said has the welfare of the people at heart.Lady Councillor Anna Mbye, youth representative Mbayam Ceesay, and NPP Regional Chairman Mustafa Touray highlighted developments in KM under President Barrow, including the construction of roads, expansion of education and improved water supply.They, however, decried the poor state of services under the current municipal leadership, particularly the lack of water and toilet facilities at the Sandika and Serekunda markets, and urged voters to change the leadership at the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC).Former NAM for Latrikunda Sabiji, Hon. Saikou Marong, said KM has immensely benefited from President Barrow's projects, citing roads built across the municipality as evidence.Minister of Lands and Regional Government, Hon. Hamat N.K. Bah, defended President Barrow's nine-year record as "development politics that delivers results."He argued that politics should not be about empty rhetoric but tangible results that improve lives. He disclosed that the government has launched a $45 million WACA project to develop the Kotu stream that runs through KM. According to him, the project will build bridges, promote economic activity, eliminate flooding and improve livelihoods. He appealed to the people of KM to vote for President Barrow in December to continue his development agenda."Serekunda Deserves Better"In his address, President Barrow praised the impressive turnout, saying it provided a unique opportunity to dialogue on national issues. He noted that Serekunda holds a special place as one of the country's biggest settlements.He challenged the people of KM to "rectify their political mistakes" by electing authorities willing to work with the central government to deliver development. While acknowledging massive developments in the last decade, he lamented the lack of cooperation from municipal authorities, accusing them of neglecting their responsibilities while living in luxury."This situation must change. KM deserves better," the President said, citing poor waste collection and the absence of water and toilet facilities in markets.President Barrow warned youth against being used as pawns by politicians, noting that during recent protests, many participants were children allegedly paid to vandalise public property. He urged them to desist from acts that undermine peace.Development Plan for SerekundaOutlining his programme, President Barrow disclosed plans to:Replicate the Banjul Roads and Drainage Project in Serekunda.Ensure 24-hour water and electricity supply.Sign a contract with an international company to collect and recycle waste from KM into renewable energy.Decommission the Bakoteh dumpsite and reclaim the land to build a garage and market for the people of KM.He challenged the people of Serekunda to take their destiny into their own hands and vote for progress, stating that the NPP-led Alliance stands for development, peace and stability.The tour continues in Kanifing Municipality with a meeting in Manjai Kunda.

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