We wish to inform you that our normal transmission is currently interrupted due to significant electrical installation work being carried out at the GRTS TV station. We are diligently working to resolve this issue and anticipate resuming normal operations at the earliest opportunity.We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding during this time.
Continue Reading >>During his inaugural visit to Kenya to attend the 61st Independence Anniversary celebration of the Republic of Kenya, President Adama Barrow participated in Jumu’ah prayers at a Nairobi Mosque on Friday. He was accompanied by his delegation and the Kenyan Minister of Mines, Ali Hassan Joho E.G.H. President Barrow received a warm welcome from the Imam and congregation, expressing his gratitude for being honored as a member of their community. As a practicing Muslim, he emphasized the importance of attending Friday prayers wherever he travels. He also thanked President William Ruto for inviting him as the Guest of Honour for Kenya's Jamhuri Day celebration. Following the prayers, President Barrow enjoyed a traditional Kenyan Nyama Choma lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, the Gambian leader visited the Ken-Gen Geothermal Power Plant, recognised as the second largest in the world, located approximately a twenty-minute flight from Nairobi. The plant has a production capacity of 800 megawatts. Later that day, President Barrow met with Honourable Julius Migos Ogamba, the Kenyan Minister for Education, and his team at the hotel. Their discussions focused on potential collaborations in the education sector. With the necessary political will, President Barrow directed his team to engage in further discussions with experts to advance this partnership. The Gambia's Honorary Consul in Kenya, Ambassador Dr. John O. Kakonge, was present and assigned to follow up on the development of a Memorandum of Understanding. Additionally, the Consul accompanied representatives of the Gambian student body in Kenya for a courtesy call on President Barrow. This group was led by Abdou Rahim Jallow, a PhD student in Civil Engineering, along with Muhammed Lamin Kebbeh and Nyima Touray, who are studying in various fields. President Barrow commended the students for representing The Gambia positively. Currently, an average of thirty Gambian students are enrolled in Kenyan institutions. Before his departure on Saturday, President Barrow visited a model affordable housing scheme designed for low-income earners and residents of slums. He was led on a tour by Honourable Alice Wahome, the Minister for Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development, to observe the ongoing construction of high-rise buildings initiated by President Ruto. The construction site employs approximately 3,000 people each day. Reflecting on the visit, President Barrow expressed appreciation for the project’s potential to improve the lives of disadvantaged citizens, considering it a source of inspiration. President Barrow's official delegation to Kenya included Honourable Mod K. Ceesay, Minister and Chief of Staff; H.E. Jainaba Jagne, the outgoing Gambian Ambassador to the African Union; and Ousman Sowe, Director General of the State Intelligence Services of The Gambia.
Continue Reading >>State House, Banjul, 18th November 2024: The general public is hereby informed that His Excellency the President, acting under Section 71(1) of the Constitution, has created a new Ministerial portfolio within the office of the President. Alongside this role, the new Minister will also serve as the Chief of Staff to the President, a position now removed from the public service framework.As Chief of Staff and Minister at the Presidency, the office holder will serve as a key adviser and administrator to the President, ensuring efficient coordination of presidential priorities, engagements, and functions. The Chief of Staff will ensure the President's decisions are effectively implemented across all relevant ministries and departments. Additionally, the Minister will oversee the daily operations of the Office of the President and coordinate the work of presidential advisors, ensuring their recommendations align with the President’s agenda.Accordingly, and acting under section 71(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia, His Excellency the President is pleased to appoint Mod K. Ceesay as Chief of Staff and Minister at the Presidency, effective from 18th of November 2024.Additionally, in accordance with Section 71(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia, His Excellency the President has appointed Dr. Habibatou Drammeh as the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education and Mr. Lamin Jabbi as the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy.Merging the Roles of Secretary to Cabinet and Head of the Civil ServiceIn a similar vein, His Excellency the President, acting under Section 80 of the Constitution, has decided to merge the roles of Secretary General and Head of the Civil Service with the Secretary to Cabinet.This merger aims to enhance efficiency in fulfilling these traditionally separate roles. The Secretary to Cabinet guides policy development in Cabinet meetings, while the Head of the Civil Service ensures these policies are implemented across ministries and departments. Consolidating these roles with a single individual helps bridge gaps in understanding and ensures a smooth transition from policy to action. Furthermore, the decision is supported by the belief that having one person oversee both policy formulation at the Cabinet level and its execution in the civil service reduces bureaucracy and reinforces a stronger chain of accountability for delivering results.Accordingly, and acting under Section 168(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia, His Excellency the President is pleased to appoint Alieu Njie as Secretary to Cabinet and Head of Civil Service, effective from 15th of November 2024.
Continue Reading >>The UN Secretary General, António Guterres Friday received President Adama Barrow in his office on the sidelines of the UNGA79. The two discussed the impressive democratic gains and highly successful transitional justice programme in The Gambia. The President updated Secretary-General Guterres on three phases of the TRRC process, seeking to bring about justice, reparation, and reconciliation for victims.SG Guterres commended President Barrow’s leadership in the region and assured him of the UN support for The Gambia’s agenda toward sustainable development. The United Nations Boss encouraged the maintenance of a peaceful co-existence in and around The Gambia, adding “Maintain it that way Mr President”. President Barrow thanked the UN SG for the renewal of its peace-building support programme for The Gambia critical to delivering justice to victims. The President is also committed to working with ECOWAS, AUC and the UN during the processes.
Continue Reading >>President Barrow Wednesday hosts his Spanish counterpart, His Excellency Mr Pedro Sanchez Perez Castejon President of The Government of Spain, for a State Visit. The visit marks an important occasion as the two States signed two significant memoranda of understanding on Circular Migration and Security Cooperation. The two agreements are crucial for facilitating legal migration and ensuring stability and security.The Circular Migration agreement is expected to enable Gambians to legally migrate to Spain to work in industries to tackle labour shortages in Spain. On the other hand, the Security Cooperation Agreement aims to enhance cooperation in addressing security challenges, through the exchange of information and intelligence to combat organised crime and other security threats.By addressing key areas such as migration and security, both nations aim to unlock new opportunities for mutual benefit, enhancing their partnership.The State visit highlights the strengthening of ties between The Gambia and Spain, focusing on bilateral development.The state visit to The Gambia marks a milestone in the relationship between the two countries. The outcomes of this visit are anticipated to drive further progress in strengthening the partnership between The Gambia and Spain.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow continues his tour of industrial sites in the Central River Region with a visit to the Hamidou Jah Farm in Baya Bah in Sami District and the Swami Gambia Banana plantation in Lower Fulladu District.The tour accorded President Barrow the opportunity to assess first-hand the impact of these investments on the agricultural sector.Central River Region is steadily becoming the breadbasket of the country as private sector investors are changing The Gambia's agriculture landscape with a renewed focus on commercializationHamidou Jah is a business tycoon known in business circles as one of the most successful oil and general merchandise dealers. After making his fortune in business, Hamidou is now trying his hand at farming.He has just acquired a 120-hectare piece of land in Baya Bah, some 15km from the main Passamas Laminkoto Highway.President Barrow has made agricultural mechanization and commercialization a key pillar of his government's policy, with its potential to lead economic growth, enhance food security and create employmentMr Jah has already put up a team of agricultural experts from the Gambia and Pakistan, who are now working to transform his piece of land into one of the most productive.The President recognized Hamidou Jah's passion and his potential to contribute to the country's national food security, which has now become more urgent, given the current global dynamics.H.E. Adama Barrow tasked all the relevant government agencies to provide the private sector with the necessary support to help them realize their goals.The President and delegation also visited the Swami Gambia banana plantation in CRR South where he was briefed on the operations by the General Manager Mansukh Bhudiya.President Barrow was taken on a conducted tour of the farm; visiting the nursery shed where the right varieties are nursed under the suitable conditions and the water treatment and supply system which sources water from the River Gambia.The innovative, cost-effective and sustainable farming system has made the Swami banana plantation a model for farmers. It currently has 450 thousand plants, also making it the largest plantation in the country.The President said he is highly impressed with this model, and thanked the Swami Gambia management and staff for the work. The farm employs over 200 workers, mostly women, from Buruko and the neighbouring villages. The farm is expected to reach full capacity with an annual production of 8000 tons.
Continue Reading >>African Commission on Human and People’s Rights convened the opening of the 79th ordinary session of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights. The convention in Banjul, brought dignitaries and stakeholders across the African continent to discuss thematic matters for the sustainability of human rights advocacy.The 79th session of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights unveils a crucial theme anchored on ‘Educating an African fit for human rights.’The speech of Remy Ngoy Lumbu, chairperson of ACHPR, centred on the unrest and conflicts facing the African continent. He cited challenges affecting women, such as sexual violence and discrimination, as he urged the Gambia government to scale up efforts to repeal FGM laws.Addressing the convention, Dr. Mamadou Tangara, Gambia’s Foreign Affairs MinisterSaid the Gambia government is committed to promoting human rights to boost reforms that include the implementation of plans presented by the Truth Commission - TRRC.For over two decades of dictatorship, the Gambia under former President Yahya Jammeh witnessed a pervasive system of forceful disappearances and extrajudicial executions that required effective transitional justice and reforms to reshape the country’s emerging democracy.As enshrined in the Charter of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights, the commission is moving to strengthen human rights structure and mechanisms alongside the promotion of friendly settlement of disputes grappling the African continent.ACHPR is a charter established by the African Union to advocate for human rights, democracy and good governance on the continent. The commission has built a robust legacy of transformative impact, empowering individuals and organizations.
Continue Reading >>Lieutenant General Mamat O. Cham, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of The Gambia Armed Forces, along with the Defense Minister and a delegation from the military, commenced a nationwide tour of military deployments across the country. The objective of this tour is to facilitate direct interaction between the CDS and troops under his command, enabling him to assess their work environments, living conditions, and challenges firsthand. As the professional head of the Armed Forces, this visit signifies the first of its kind since Lieutenant General Cham's appointment as Chief of Defence Staff. His first stop was at Barra, where he visited the ECOMIG forces of Gancoy 7 at Fort Bullen, where he was accorded a warm welcome by the Ghanaian soldiers. CDS Cham was briefed in detail on the tasks and duties assigned to the Ghanaian troops stationed there. Additionally, he witnessed a special presentation by the Ghanaian ECOMIG forces, showcasing their methods for handling riot control operations within the North Bank region. CDS Cham commended the Ghanaian soldiers for their exemplary role, highlighting them as a contingent that epitomizes professionalism within the Ghanaian Armed Forces. He noted that the Ghanaian Armed Forces had successfully won the hearts and minds of the local population within the North Bank region. The Defense Minister also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of unity and professionalism among the Ghanaian soldiers in their duties. The delegation conducted a tour of the facility before proceeding to Njongon's military post. Activity at Njongon was distinctive as CDS Cham engaged with the local community, focusing on the imperative of maintaining and fostering peace. Villagers expressed gratitude to the Gambian troops stationed at Njongon, citing their presence as a source of safety and security. Army troops also had the opportunity to voice their concerns during discussions with the Army Chief. Issues raised included capacity building, improvement of hygiene standards, and motivation. This aligns with CDS Cham's objective of gathering firsthand information on their working conditions. CDS Cham assured the troops that their challenges would be ‘addressed,’ emphasizing the importance of the men in uniform as role models of discipline and commitment.
Continue Reading >>We regret to announce the passing of our former Director General, Malick Jeng. He passed away on Saturday morning at his residence. Mr Jeng has served with diligence and commitment as the D.G. of the State Broadcaster. He presided over the return of GRTS to satellite transmission. He equally worked to ensure GRTS covered major national and international events involving The Gambia.The late Malick Jeng was a devoted Muslim who was greatly concerned about staff welfare. A jovial and compassionate individual who treats the staff with so much respect and care. GRTS Management is saddened by the passing of Mr Jeng, who greatly contributed to the transformation of GRTS. Management extends its condolences to the family and the entire country and pray that Allah have mercy on his soul and grants him Janatul Firdausi.
Continue Reading >>The new Minister for Information Dr Ismaila Ceesay told journalists during the briefing that his ministry aims to renew commitment to the development of the media landscape to bolster relations between the press and the government.In a period of increasing misinformation and disinformation, the Ministry has also launched its website and social media handles. An initiative meant to boost the much-long-awaited access to information.Serving as the main mediator between the government and the public, the Information Minister said his ministry is committed to building the website of all other ministries – a strategic move to enhance relations with the media and chart a way forward for the government to communicate to the public. Access to information is a crucial component of a strong democracy building a strong, vibrant society that enables the media to deliver accurate and reliable information to the general public.Despite the lack of support from the government through subventions like other countries, the Gambian media plays a critical role in its drive to deliver accurate information to the public. Yankuba Saidy, the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Information Ministry, said the government is working to ensure the media outlets are subvented to be able to sustain their operations. Since the country transitioned to democracy and good governance in 2017, the Barrow administration has registered significant progress in terms of strengthening press freedom. This press briefing is meant to reset relations between the government and the media.
Continue Reading >>The Minister for Transport, Works and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah is on tour to assess the level of progress of road construction projects across the country.In what was day one of his tour, the minister inspected works on the ‘Hakalang Road’ in Nuimi and other access roads in ‘Baddibu’ in the North Bank Region to access first-hand. The famous ‘Hakalang Road’ linking communities in Upper and Lower Niumi, is an 84 km stretch that has already been completed according to contractors. The Minister said he was satisfied with the level of progress, and hoped that it would be completed within time. Several residents in the area who are the direct beneficiaries of the road expressed delight in the historic roads, describing them as a life-changing project for the people of Niumi. From ‘Niumi’ to ‘Badibou’ where the minister and delegation inspected the ‘Kerewan Njawara Access Road’ which connects 17 communities in the catchment area to the main highway. Day one of the tour climaxed with a visit to the Banni-Salikenni road. This particular project was awarded to a Gambian contractor. The Minister said he is equally impressed with the level of work done at 70 percent. The tour continues to the Central and Upper River Regions
Continue Reading >>The Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to The Gambia, H.E Liu Jin, presented a cheque for over two million dalasi to the Gambia Radio and Television Services, for the purchase of cameras for the State Broadcaster.The gesture is in response to a request for support by the Director General of GRTS Abdoulie Sey ahead of the OIC Summit in Banjul.The Chinese ambassador H.E Liu Jin said the role of the media is crucial, especially GRTS being the State Broadcaster.The Chinese diplomat also described the OIC summit as an important platform to discuss international affairs and for Muslim leaders to share their perspectives on peace, unity, and fairness across the world.The newly appointed Minister for Information Dr Ismaila Ceesay, who was in attendance, emphasised the need for a complete transformation of GRTS from equipment to staff welfare, amongst others.Minister Ceesay used the opportunity to thank China for being supportive of The Gambia and Africa at large, citing infrastructural projects like the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre built to the tune of 50 million dollars thanks to China.Director General Sey commended China for their timely intervention and continuous support towards GRTS' transformation. He further stated that the government of The Gambia under the leadership of H.E Adama Barrow, has strongly promised to support GRTS towards the coverage of the OIC Banjul summit, thanks to the intervention of the new Information Minister Dr Ismaila Ceesay. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is the second largest inter-governmental organization with a membership of 57 states spread over four continents. The 15th Heads of State and Government Summit will be held in The Gambia from 4th to 5th May 2024. GRTS as the National Broadcaster has been handed the lead role of covering the events live and providing feeds for international channels.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>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.
Continue Reading >>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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