News Stories

News First slide

The Gambia Government Inaugurates ‘Joint Investigative Panel’ to Investigate The Alleged Coup Plot

Banjul, The Gambia — Members of the public, the Diplomatic and Consular Corps are informed that The Gambia Government has today, Tuesday 27th December, 2022, inaugurated a “Joint Investigative Panel” to investigate the foiled coup plot against the legitimate Government of President Adama Barrow.The multi-sectoral Panel draws membership from the Ministry of Justice, Office of National Security (ONS), The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), The Gambia Police Force (GPF) and the State Intelligence Service (SIS) to exhaustively, professionally and impartially investigate the alleged coup plot.Consistent with the due process of the law, the 11-member Panel was sworn to an Oath of Secrecy administered by the Solicitor General, Ministry of Justice. The investigators have thirty (30) days effective today to investigate, prepare and submit their report on the alleged coup plot.The brief inauguration ceremony, chaired by the new National Security Adviser, Mr Abubakarr Suleiman Jeng was witnessed by the Chief of Defence Staff of The Gambia Armed Forces, The Inspector General of Police, the Director General of the State Intelligence Services and The Gambia Government Spokesperson & Presidential Diaspora Adviser.SignedEbrima G. SankarehThe Gambia Government Spokesperson & Presidential Diaspora Adviser

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

NAYCONF 2022 Resolutions Adopted

Delegates at the National Youth Conference and Festival (NAYCONF) have tasked the Gambia government to increase youth employment and education. The call is contained in a number of resolutions young people adopted at the just ended week long national youth conference following their discussions on eight thematic areas. The thematic areas include Environment and Climate Change, Migration, Peace and Security, and Substance Abuse, Gender, Youth in Political Participation, ITC and Access to Information, entrepreneurship; and culture.  The biennial youth convergence brought together over 2000 young people across the country where they participated in various activities and discussed issues affecting their lives. 

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

Gambia government confirms attempted coup plot

The government of the Gambia has announced that four soldiers of the Gambia Armed Forces are in custody following an attempt to overthrow the government of Adama Barrow. The men were arrested on Tuesday following a military operation by the Gambia Armed forces and are currently being interrogated by the military police. A statement from the government of Gambia confirmed the alleged coup plot and says three more soldiers believed part of the plot are on the run. 

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

Unidentifeid corpse found on TUI flight from banjul to London

A press release from the office of the government spokesperson

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

NAYCONF Resolutions Will Not Gather Dust - Minister Badjie

The Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie has promised to share the resolution of the 2022 youth conference to all stakeholders for implementation. Minister Badgie was addressing delegates the opening ceremony of the National youth conference and festival held in Banjul. He said the documents would not be left to gather dust and that follow up mechanisms have been devised to enable smooth implementation of the resolutions.He said the Government of the Gambia has ratified the National Youth Policy that highlighted challenges such as migration, youth unemployment and skills acquisition.  

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

President Barrow Urges Gambian Youths to Take the Lead in Jealously Safeguarding the Peace and Security

During his opening statement at the 13th National Youth Conference and Festival in Banjul, President Barrow encouraged the youths to work together closely to guarantee prosperity and stability to ensure future generations lead comfortable lives in peace.“I acknowledge the strides taken by the National Youth Council to bring all the youths under one umbrella and represent their interests.With certainty, there cannot be any peace anywhere without the absolute cooperation of the youth; so, I advise all young persons and citizens in the country to remain peaceful and law-abiding and defend or claim their rights civilly and democratically.” President Barrow saidPointing that The Gambia boast of a youthful population, which has immense potential to develop and a lot to tap into the younger generation, the President said it is essential, therefore, to hear their voice and listen to them attentively. “NAYCONF is an event that allows this to happen. It also creates openings to explore and promote youth matters and to chart new pathways in the youth's best interest and from their perspective.” He stated. The convergence is a biannual activity that brings together young people from all regions in The Gambia and beyond to discuss issues affecting them. The theme for this year’s conference, hosted by the Capital City, Banjul, is; The Role of Young People in the Maintenance of Peace and Security for Socio-Economic Development Opportunities and Challenges. The opening ceremony was marked by a match pass and a spectacular display of culture by the seven regions represented.President Barrow Urges Gambian Youths to Take the Lead in Jealously Safeguarding the Peace and Security During his opening statement at the 13th National Youth Conference and Festival in Banjul, President Barrow encouraged the youths to work together closely to guarantee prosperity and stability to ensure future generations lead comfortable lives in peace. “I acknowledge the strides taken by the National Youth Council to bring all the youths under one umbrella and represent their interests.With certainty, there cannot be any peace anywhere without the absolute cooperation of the youth; so, I advise all young persons and citizens in the country to remain peaceful and law-abiding and defend or claim their rights civilly and democratically.” President Barrow saidPointing that The Gambia boast of a youthful population, which has immense potential to develop and a lot to tap into the younger generation, the President said it is essential, therefore, to hear their voice and listen to them attentively. “NAYCONF is an event that allows this to happen. It also creates openings to explore and promote youth matters and to chart new pathways in the youth's best interest and from their perspective.” He stated. The convergence is a biannual activity that brings together young people from all regions in The Gambia and beyond to discuss issues affecting them. The theme for this year’s conference, hosted by the Capital City, Banjul, is; The Role of Young People in the Maintenance of Peace and Security for Socio-Economic Development Opportunities and Challenges. The opening ceremony was marked by a match pass and a spectacular display of culture by the seven regions represented.  

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

President Barrow tours OIC projects and other sites

President Adama Barrow, Tuesday, embarked on a tour of the ongoing OIC infrastructural projects to see firsthand the progress of work on the sites. The President visited the nearly finished VVIP lounge at the Banjul International Airport, the Bertil Harding-Highway, the Brufut connection roads, and the Tujereng-Kunkujang-road in the company of some Cabinet Ministers, senior government officials, and representatives from the OIC Gambia Secretariat.During the six-hour visit, the President was also taken to the Nawec Jabang 225kv substation, where he was informed that the station will reduce the frequent instances of low power voltage. He also went to the Nawec water treatment facility. President Barrow also visited Tanji and Tujereng Upper Basic Schools, where the construction of additional classrooms and staff quarters is underway. At the wrap of the day, the President visited the completed Brikama market, where a large cheering crowd received him.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

The Gambia Eligible For US Government MCC Grant

The Gambia is among four African countries selected to forge new partnerships with the US government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation to develop new grant programs to boost economic development, among other things, according to a release from the US Embassy in Banjul,‘’During its annual “selection” meeting held last week, MCC’s Board — which is chaired by the U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken — selected The Gambia and Togo as eligible to develop compacts, MCC’s five-year grant program that focuses on large-scale infrastructure investments and address policy and institutional reforms.’’ The release stated. “Today’s announcement is symbolic of both the United States’ enduring commitment to Africa and MCC’s dedication to creating a stronger, more resilient global community,” said MCC’s Chief Executive Officer Alice Albright. “Our Board’s selection of these countries affirms each country’s aspiration or commitment to democratic principles as well as their intentions to make the investments and institutional changes necessary to build a more prosperous future for their communities. The MCC Board’s decision comes at a critical time, and we look forward to working together with each country to develop a program that will address the most pressing challenges facing their economies.”The Millennium Challenge Corporation is an independent U.S. government agency working to reduce global poverty through economic growth. Created in 2004, MCC provides time-limited grants and assistance to countries that meet rigorous standards for good governance, fighting corruption and respecting democratic rights.  

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

President promises major fishing project in kombo South

President Adama Barrow has promised a huge fishing project in the coastal communities of kombo South District. The president disclosed at Tujereng village that his government has secured the funds to implement a fishing project that will transform the the fishing industry in the area. He stated that the project includes the development of the infrastructure and facilities at fish landing sites as well as training and provision of start up capital for beneficiaries. He however called on young Gambians to embrace the opportunity, saying the project is meant to end the domination of the sector by non-Gambians. He described the area as the converging point for irregular migration and called on the youths to desist from it and use the opportunities his creating for them. President re-echoed his for the communities to provide the needed land for government projects. He expressed Frustration over unnecessary claims over land that earmarked for projects that would benefit the country. The Minister of Lands Regional Government and Religious affairs Sheriff Abba Sanyang  warned against settling on government reserve lands. The Minister of Works Transport and Infrastructure Ebrima Sillah disclosed that government has allocated over three billion dalasi to his Ministry earmarked for road construction. Minister Sillah highlighted several key roads linking coastal communities which would be constructed from 2023 to 2024.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

President advises youths against illegal migration

President Adama Barrow continues the second leg of his meet the people tour on Friday with a large meeting at Mandinaring in the West Coast Region. Addressing the gathering, President Barrow advised youths to be more proactive in academic and skills development to acquire market relevant qualifications to boost their employment opportunities. He also advised against irregular migration, saying those who want to travel should explore regular and legal means.  Responding to the requests made by people in the area, the Gambian leader disclosed that government will construct major feeder roads, gardens and water projects in the area as well as extend access to electricity in Mandinaring, kubariko, kunjang jattaya, Latriaya and Bafuloto in 2023. He said that he will surprise Gambians with a great news in the coming weeks which will further cement his government's status as a development-oriented administration. The Minister of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs Sheriff Abba Sanyang urges Gambians to ensure the proper management and judious utilization of land. Minister Sanyang also called on traditional and religious leaders to follow the due process of inheritance to enable women to acquire land for agriculture and residential purposes. He advise people to acquire development permits to prevent the demolition of their properties after construction. The Minister of Works Transport and Infrastructure Ebrima Sillah highlighted various feeder roads tgat would be constructed in the area. This he said include Old Yundum, Tabokoto-Banjulinding Road, Lamin-Babilon road and Wellingara - Abuko road among others. The Minister of Tourism and culture called on the people to continue supporting the government. Several other Speakers Including the Paramount Chief Alh. Momodou Bojang, Alkalo Faa Ceesay of Mandinaring, Ramou Camara and Tida Suwaneh all described president Barrow as a champion of peace, democracy and good governance. They also thanked the president and his government for numerous developments projects in their respective communities. The speakers used the occasion to appeal for more feeder roads, electricity expansion, youth and women empowerment initiatives among other needs of their communities.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

President Adama Barrow promises Brikama a major hospital

President Adama Barrow has promised to construct more roads in the kombo central, kombo east and kombo south districts. He disclosed at a meeting in Brikama that his government is working on electricity projects in all the districts in kombo which will see most of the settlements in these areas electrified. He also disclosed that the World Bank would be funding major hospital projects in the West Coast and Upper River Regions. He said Brikama has been identified for the hospital. While a site has already been identified and confirmed in URR, President said a site for the construction of the Hospital in Brikama remains a big challenge. He called on the people of Brikam to quickly identify a suitable site for the construction of the hospital. President Barrow said his government is embarking on major development projects among them more than one thousand kilometre road network. He said  the majority of those roads would be constructed in the west coast region. President Barrow is continuing his meet the people with meetings in Mansinary on Friday and Tajereng on Saturday. President Barrow will also hold a rally in Tallinding before wrapping up the three week tour with a meeting in Banjul on Monday.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

President Barrow continues the meet the people tour

President Adama Barrow has promised to bring unprecedented development to the Foni region. The president was speaking at Sibanorr as he embark on the second leg of the meet the people tour. President Barrow told the gathering that his government would construct a 50km road network in Foni. Responding to requests for more electrification of the region President Barrow would extend elctricity to over 50 communities in Foni. The President spoke of the importance of skills development and therefore encouraged young people to engage in skills development inorder to self-employed. The President had a stop Toubakuta enroute to Foni where he visited Gikay Farms. Gikay Farms uses modern irrigation and horticultural techniques, working with graduates from Chamen Agricultural Centre.

Continue Reading >>

Latest Updates

News First slide

DR. FATOU BENSOUDA NAMED GNOC GOODWILL SPORTS AMBASSADOR

The Gambia National Olympic Committee has appointed Her Excellency Dr Fatou Bom Bensouda, High Commissioner of The Gambia to the United Kingdom, as its Goodwill Sports Ambassador.The appointment was announced during the Gambia Day Celebration in Glasgow, Scotland, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to Gambian sport, international diplomacy, and the promotion of Olympic values.A former national volleyball player and ex-Female Vice President of the GNOC, Dr Bensouda was praised for her leadership in promoting women in sport and advancing athlete welfare, integrity, and sports development.In her new role, she will help raise The Gambia's profile on the international sporting stage, strengthen partnerships with global sports organisations, and promote sports diplomacy to support national development.The GNOC states that the appointment reflects Dr Bensouda’s distinguished service to sport and her ongoing commitment to inspiring future generations of Gambian athletes and sports leaders.  

Continue Reading >>
Sports First slide

TEAM GAMBIA RECEIVES WARM WELCOME FROM DIASPORA AHEAD OF COMMONWEALTH GAMES

Team Gambia has received a warm welcome from the Gambian community in Scotland ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.The Gambian Association in Scotland, in collaboration with the Gambia High Commission in the UK and the Commonwealth Sports Association, hosted a special reception dubbed “Gambia Day” in Glasgow. The event brought together athletes, officials, members of the diaspora, government representatives, and sports administrators in a celebration of national unity and support for Team Gambia.It was the first time a Gambian sports delegation competing at an international event formally met members of the diaspora. The gathering provided athletes, coaches, and officials the opportunity to interact directly with Gambians living in Scotland, share experiences, and strengthen the bond between the national team and the diaspora.Attending the event were Minister of Youth and Sports Bakary Y. Badjie; The Gambia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Dr Fatou Bensouda; Chief of Mission Bakary Jammeh; and senior officials of the Gambia National Olympic Committee.Chief of Mission Bakary Jammeh, who chaired the ceremony, expressed appreciation to the Gambian community in Scotland for their hospitality.He described the occasion as a reflection of the power of sport to unite people. “Sports transcends boundaries and brings communities together through a shared passion and common purpose,” he said.Minister Bakary Y. Badjie commended the Gambian Association in Scotland for the historic initiative. He reminded the athletes that they carry the hopes and aspirations of the nation. “Build on previous Commonwealth Games successes and strive for greater achievements,” he challenged the team.High Commissioner Dr Fatou Bensouda described Gambia Day as a celebration of national identity, unity, and excellence. “Sport continues to serve as a powerful tool for bringing Gambians together, both at home and abroad,” she said. Dr Bensouda encouraged the diaspora to keep supporting young people through sport, calling it “a pathway to leadership, education, and national development.”GNOC President Bai Dodou Jallow thanked the community for its support, saying such engagement inspires athletes and reminds them they represent a nation united behind them. He called on Gambian parents and communities abroad to continue encouraging youth participation in sports, describing investment in youth as an investment in the country’s future.President of the Gambian Association in Glasgow, Lamin Sanneh, assured Team Gambia of the diaspora’s continued support throughout the Games and urged athletes to compete with confidence and pride.

Continue Reading >>
Sports First slide

TEAM GAMBIA’S SWIMMING CAMPAIGN BEGINS AT 2026 COMMONWEALTH GAMES

Team Gambia’s swimming campaign got underway at the 2026 Commonwealth Games on Saturday, with Ousman Jobe and Pap D. Jonga representing the nation in Heat 3 at Tollcross International Swimming Centre.While both swimmers fell short of advancing, the race marked another step forward for Gambian aquatics on the international stage.The duo competed in a fast men’s sprint heat. Tonga’s Alan Uhiafi touched first in 24.42 seconds, followed by Vanuatu’s John Lebot in 25.83.For The Gambia, Olympian Ousman Jobe placed 7th in Lane 6 with a time of 27.52 seconds. Pap D. Jonga finished 8th in Lane 2 in 28.30 seconds. Both were just off their seed times.Anticipation was high in the Gambian camp ahead of the race. Jobe came into Glasgow fresh off an intensive two-month training camp in Paris.“There’s been some major championships here before, in the 2014 Commonwealth Games as well. I’ve prepared so well,” Jobe said.“Plus, two months ago, I was in Paris preparing for this. So I think I’m fully ready.”While both missed out on personal bests, Jonga reflected on Glasgow’s world-class facilities and what it will take to develop talent in The Gambia.“If in The Gambia a supportive system can be created in terms of creating a swimming pool, swimming has a long way to go,” Jonga said.“Having at least a standard 25-meter pool will enable young kids who are trying to involve themselves in swimming to have big potential for tomorrow.”Though Heat 3 marks the end of this event, the Games are far from over for Team Gambia. Jonga said the race was a chance to review and improve.“The performance was great, but it could have been much better. I will use this moment to progress on the few events coming up... to do a review of what went wrong and enable me to have better timing in the races coming up,” he said.Jobe and Jonga return to the pool on Monday and Tuesday for the 100-meter freestyle and 50-meter butterfly, taking vital lessons from Glasgow’s 50-meter pool into their remaining races. 

Continue Reading >>
Sports First slide

GINA BASS ADVANCES TO 100M SEMIS AS OUSMAN JOBE SETS NATIONAL RECORD AT COMMONWEALTH GAMES

It was a day of mixed fortunes for Team Gambia at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, as sprint star Gina Mariam Bass Bittaye booked her place in the women’s 100 metres semi-finals, while swimmer Ousman Jobe set a new Gambian national record.Africa’s sprint queen produced a confident performance to finish 2nd in her 100m heat in 11.22 seconds, comfortably securing a spot in the last 16.Speaking after the race, Bass said she was pleased with the result despite the cold weather.“Qualification was the priority in the opening round, not speed,” the Gambian star said.She remains quietly confident ahead of the semi-finals.The competition ended in the heats for the rest of Team Gambia’s sprinters.Commonwealth Games debutant Isatou Sey clocked 11.73 seconds, short of her personal best of 11.61. She blamed the weather but called the experience valuable.“Competing at the Games has been a great learning experience,” Sey said.Nyimansata Jawneh also bowed out after recording 11.68 seconds, leaving Bass as The Gambia’s sole representative in the women’s sprint semi-finals.In the men’s 100m, Alieu Joof ran 10.52 seconds while veteran Ebrima Camara clocked a season’s best of 10.29 seconds. Both narrowly missed out on qualification.Camara, competing at his third consecutive Commonwealth Games, reflected on a tough season.“I’m not really satisfied with it, but I thank God because I’ve had a very tough season with injuries,” Camara said.“Since recovering, every race I’ve been getting better. This is my third Commonwealth Games. Not everybody gets the opportunity to represent their country three times over twelve years. So I really thank God for that.”In the swimming pool, Pap D. Jonga and Ousman Jobe were unable to advance from the men’s 100m freestyle.However, Jobe made history by stopping the clock at 1:01.34, setting a new Gambian national record in the event. While the time was not enough to progress, it marked a major personal achievement and another step forward for competitive swimming in The Gambia.With athletics and swimming competitions now underway, all eyes turn to Gina Mariam Bass as she carries The Gambia’s hopes into the women’s 100m semi-finals, aiming to secure a place in the final and challenge for Commonwealth honours.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

PRESIDENT BARROW URGES YOUTH TO PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE AT 2026 INNOVATION SUMMIT

President Adama Barrow on Saturday urged young people to prepare for the future, telling hundreds of youth at the 2026 Youth Innovation Summit that “the future belongs to those who prepare for it.”The President was speaking at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, where several hundred young people from organisations across the country gathered for the annual summit.The Youth Innovation Summit brings young people together to discuss relevant issues, share ideas, and challenge the realities shaping youth affairs and the future of The Gambia.It serves as a platform for youth empowerment and fosters collaboration between young people and government.Key sponsor Comium said it believes youth are The Gambia’s greatest resource. “The country’s future depends on how we prepare young people to thrive in a digital-driven world,” said Isatou Ceesay, Comium’s Director of Marketing and Communications.A highlight of the summit was the story of Ebrima Jallow, a young man who once embarked on the perilous journey to Europe. Now a successful entrepreneur, Jallow was given the podium to inspire participants.He stands as living proof that Gambians can succeed at home.In his address, President Barrow recounted his own journey to Europe as a young man, with the belief that it was the only way to live a better life. He later realised that success could also be found at home.He used the lesson to encourage young people that with the right mindset, they can make it in The Gambia.The President assured youth that their development remains central to his government’s agenda, citing the construction of schools and TVET centres across the country to empower them.“It is government’s responsibility to ensure hope for our youth,” Barrow said. “That is why we are investing in agriculture and other sectors.”He urged young people to reject drugs, embrace innovation, and maintain peace, reiterating: “The future belongs to those who prepare for it.”Critical conversations at the summit centred on: Irregular migration and reintegration. Civic education, participation, and national cohesion. Youth empowerment, skills development, and entrepreneurship.Giving the vote of thanks on behalf of the Organising Committee, Maimuna Platt described the day as “an unforgettable day of learning among youths” and said it marks the beginning of more innovation and collaboration for nation building.

Continue Reading >>
News First slide

PRESIDENT BARROW PRESENTS VEHICLES TO NPP-LED GRAND COALITION PARTNERS AHEAD OF DECEMBER POLL

President Adama Barrow on Saturday presented a fleet of vehicles to partner parties of the NPP-led Grand Coalition during a ceremony held at State House. The presentation was attended by leaders of the Alliance parties and senior members of the National People’s Party executive.Representatives of the Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction (APRC), ANRD, NRP, NCP, Democratic Party, Citizens Alliance, GPDP, and GMC received keys to the new vehicles. The vehicles are expected to enhance grassroots mobilisation ahead of the December 5th Presidential election.The leaders of the 8 parties expressed appreciation to the President and leader of the Grand Coalition, saying the gesture will strengthen the Alliance. They predicted a landslide victory for President Barrow, describing him as development-oriented and committed to national progress.Isatou Jifanga Jarju of the APRC assured that the vehicles will be used for their intended purpose.Mai Ahmad Fatty of the Gambia Moral Congress (GMC) said the Grand Coalition is strong and well-positioned to win the election, citing what he called the President’s “life-changing development projects” across the country.Dr Ismaila Ceesay of the Citizens Alliance urged beneficiaries to intensify grassroots mobilisation to strengthen the Grand Coalition. He said President Barrow will win with an overwhelming majority based on his track record over the last 9 years.GPDP leader Henry Gomez described the presentation as unprecedented in Gambian politics. “President Barrow respects his coalition partners and always supports them when necessary,” Gomez said. “Therefore, let us work together and speak with one voice to strengthen the Alliance.” He also called on Gambians to support the President and vote for him massively in December to ensure continuity of development.Leaders of the NCP, ANRD, and DP echoed similar sentiments, calling on all partner parties to vigorously campaign and mobilise support for the NPP-led Alliance.NRP leader Hamat N.K. Bah cautioned all beneficiary parties against misusing the vehicles, stressing that they are strictly for campaign purposes. He urged Alliance members to reach out to voters across the country.Bah also praised President Barrow’s development record, which he said has touched the lives of citizens nationwide. He challenged young people to support the President and avoid politicians who mislead them for selfish political goals.“There will be no shortcut to the Presidency,” Bah warned. “Government will not allow any individual or group to undermine the electoral process. A level playing field has already been ensured for all.”First Deputy National President of the NPP, Demba Sabally, said the presentation signifies President Barrow’s recognition of the important role of Alliance parties in strengthening the Grand Coalition. He urged them to redouble efforts and maintain unity to ensure victory for the Alliance.In his remarks, President Barrow described the event as a historic milestone in the country’s political evolution, noting it is the first time members of a coalition are receiving such support from the leading party.He called on all recipients to use the vehicles solely for political purposes to mobilise voters at the grassroots for the Grand Coalition. 

Continue Reading >>