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STRENGTHENING FACT-CHECKING

DUBAWA STARTS FACT-CHECKING FELLOWSHIP FOR WEST AFRICAN JOURNALISTSIn a bid to strengthen fact-checking, the Center for Journalism innovation and Development (CJID) through its fact-checking project DUBAWA inducted a fresh cohort of participants in its latent fact-checking training for Journalists in West Africa with trainees drawn from the The Gambia, Nigeria, Sierra Leon, Liberia and Ghana.The fellowship is part of Dubawa’s effort to curb the swift spread of misinformation and instill a broad focus on fact-checking in newsrooms.The Fact-Checking Fellowship is designed to equip journalists with requisite skills to combat misinformation in their various countries. The fellowship is structured to run for a duration of three months commencing with an intensive four-day training.Participants will be taken through requisite modules ranging from “understanding the information Disorder Ecosystem, Media information Literacy, Data presentation, fact-checking tools” and other relevant areas to expose fellows to the art of fact-checking and prepare them for the task ahead.The Kwame Karikari Fellowship is supported by the “National Endowment for Democracy (NED). The fellows will receive mentorship to continue creating content for their various mediums.This opportunity will immensely support journalists to amplify factual news and help mitigate the spread of misinformation and Disinformation.

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President Barrow wraps meetings in URR

The President H.E Adama Barrow wrapped up his Meet the People Tour in the Upper River Region with a meeting in Koli Bantang in Wuli West, which was also attended by constituents from Wuli East and Sandu.Issues surrounding agriculture,  road infrastructure,  electricity and horticulture dominated the agenda with speakers calling on government to increase investments to help local communities. The Lady councillor Fatoumata Saho led the chorus, commending the President for the numerous developments that have transformed the region. The youth representative Yorro Camara and Fansainey Barrow called for more government support to enhance agricultural production in the region,  arguing that the URR has the potential to produce enough to meet the needs of the people. As the prices of basic foodstuff increases beyond the reach of ordinary people,  Fansainey Barrow called for a radical shift to boost local production. Mbemba Jabbi also appealed to government to revise the tariff at the Samba Juma bridge as the toll is deemed too high for local drivers, and commuters who now use boats to cross the river.Chief Momodou Bah of Wuli West expressed gratitude to the President for what he called his commendable response to current coat of living crisis, which he attributed to external factors, urging Gambians to turn these challenges into opportunities.The Governor of the Upper River Region Samba Bah said his region has seen unprecedented developments under President Barrow, urging people to nurture the prevailing peace and stability. The Governor said several rural communities in the region have benefitted from the NAFAA cash transfer initiative designed to reduce poverty amongst farmers, whilst also revealing plans to construct a regional hospital in Giroba Kunda.The Minister of Works, Construction and Infrastructure Ebrima Sillah said the next five years will be momentous for the URR as studies have already been completed for the construction of half a dozen feeder roads across the region. He road projects, the Minister added will be funded from the national budget in line with the President's development agenda which priorities infrastructure as the engine of economic growth. The Minister of Regional Government and Lands Abba Sanyang expressed concern with the indiscriminate dumping of waste in public places, adding that government is exploring possibilities of re-introducing the monthly cleansing exercises across the country.  The Lands Minister also urged local communities to resolve land related disputes peacefully, as these conflicts could upend the existing peace and stability in the country.The President H.E Adama Barrow closed the meeting, commending the people of Wuli and Sandu for the impressive turnout.  The President harped on the importance of dialogue in fostering understanding amongst people,  describing the tour ad an important platform for exchange of views on national development. The President said his government has laid a robust foundation for socio-economic and infrastructural development,  adding that the next five years will usher in more opportunities for citizens. With the groundnut trade season beginning on December 1st, President Barrow announced that government has increased the price of a ton from D28000 to D3200, to help farmers. Speaking about the current economic situation,  President Barrow blamed the covid19 pandemic for disrupting supply chains across the world leading to a rise in prices of basic commodities,  but reassured that government has taken adequate steps to stabilise prices. Responding to appeals for more electricity access, President Barrow revealed that more than 200 villages will get electricity in URR.The President also addressed concerns raised by some speakers about the recent introduction of a toll at the Samba Juma bridge,  saying the fee is justified to enable government raise funds for the upkeep of the bridge. The construction of the bridge,  President Barrow added has made life easier for residents as it is safer, quicker and cheaper compared to the boats. He therefore advised communities to take ownership of the bridge and shun detractors who are bent on inciting people against the government, using social media as part of a wider political campaign. The President concluded by reassuring people that the funds generated will be used for development purposes to serve the welfare of Gambians.The tour continues in the CRR with planned meetings in Jarreng and Bansang.

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A THRIVING COASTAL ECONOMY

 Gambia’s Coastal zones particularly areas in the country’s coastal south are endowed with immense natural resources shaping multiple livelihood ventures for communities and people from all over the sub region. Ecological resources especially those in the country’s vast marine ecosystems are Critical to the population with a viable natural landscape emerging as a major focus for a sustainable blue economy agenda.Kartong is, one of the busiest coastal vicinities with a stable ecological attraction, a bustling eco tourism hub and fisheries centre perfectly placed to nurture the economic environment of the coast.Settled on a narrow strip of land, kartong’s riverside is a robust economic vicinity attracting an appealing variety of ventures., most men and women here are in the fisheries business.Fisherfolk trading different products are making ends meet from massive catches, and a chunk of the supplies are bought by  women merchants in the fish business.The coastal area offers a variety of opportunities for employment and, some young men make a profit from the knitting of fishnets while readymade nets are sold to fisherfolk.Women are in the fish-smoking business, they get their fish supplies from fish trawlers and process products into smoked fish and salted dried fish which form a major part of the national diet.Women constitute a high percentage of the fish business in kartong but sometimes sales are less lucrative and women are usually left with little or no alternatives when business hits rock bottom.Fish products processed here are supplied to various fish markets or sold to women who come here to buy stocks for domestic meals.The lack of facilities amid other challenges is massively hindering the output of their business ventures as these women solely rely on fisheries to make ends meet.Women like Isatou Madeline Jarjue are engrossed in the oyster business, she and other women are making a sustainable living from the venture.This could be a dangerous venture. The sharp oyster cells have caused injuries for many women and high tides have also caused countless disasters. But some visionary projects are providing support for Isatou and her colleagues.Apart from the fish business, Eco-tourism is rapidly growing on this side of the river, the coastal zone has an incredible natural landscape giving business opportunities for tourism enthusiasts.Dodou Saidy has an established restaurant, functioning on a narrow strip of land attracting local and international visitors.The kartong halain area is rapidly growing into people’s favorite eco tourism vicinity with sumptuous seafood delights served to customers.Dodou’s restaurant attracts tourists who often visit to enjoy a serene environment and enjoy local dishes and the owner relies on catches from the river for his business but high prices and little quantity of stocks often challenge his business.Sulayman Bojang is in the cruising business guiding tourists during boat rides.The industry is taking off as kartong turns into a major tourist hotspot.The coastal residents rely on natural resources for food and income and a preserved marine  ecology means more opportunities for the communiry which is keenly protecting its resources.

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President Barrow promises to construct more roads in the Upper river region

President Adama Barrow has promised to construct more roads and bring electricity to communities in Tumana, kantora, Basse and Jimara constituencies by 2025. This he said will cover over 95 percent of the communities in the area.  He made the promise at meetings in Chamoi in the Tumana District and his home town of Makamang Kunda in Jimara in response to numerous requests for more roads and electricity. President Barrow returned Gratitude to the people for renewing his mandate as president. He highlighted numerous developments made by his administration in education, health, agriculture and  infrastructure amongst other sectors of the economy. President Barrow added that over 45 communities in Tumana and over 30 communities in kantora  as well as dozens of others in Basse and Jimara constituencies will be electrified by 2025.  The Gambian Leader called on the people to embrace agriculture particularly rice production for  food and nutrition security. This he said is the best way to ensure food self sufficiency amid global economic crisis. President Barrow disclosed that his government had secured funds to invest in agricultural inputs and the purchase of groundnuts. He assured farmers that there will no credit buying of their nuts this season. In addition to the distribution of cereal and vegetable seeds his government he added will construct several gardens in some communities in the Upper River Region.The president also handed over a cheque for over 1.7  million dalasi to the women earmarked for 18 women groups in Tumana and Kantora as part of the government funded women enterprise fund meant to improve women's economic status. As he embarked on his nationwide tour the President held his first ever meeting in his home town of Makamang kunda where was received by a large crowd. At various meetings, community leaders, youth and women representatives took turns to return gratitude to the President and his government for what they described as unprecedented socio-economic and infrastructural development in their respective areas. This they say include the construction of roads, bridges, schools, health facilities and improved access to electricity in rural communities. They however appealed for more feeder roads, water projects, agricultural inputs, youth empowerment and improve security among other developments.The Minister of Fisheries and water Resources Musa Drammeh disclosed that government is set to construct over twenty-eight boreholes in Upper River Region by the end of 2023. The Minister of Agriculture Demba Sabally said government will soon start the construction of a dairy plant in Basse, and small ruminants markets and abattoirs in major settlements across the Upper River Region. The Minister of Lands and Regional Government Sheriff Abba Sanyang called on Gambians to nurture peace stability and Social cohesion. Minister Sanyang warned against the abuse of natural resources such as land and forests and called on loacal authorities to ensure their protection. The tour continues with meetings in wuli and other parts of Central River Region.

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President Barrow holds meeting at Makkah Farafenni.

President Adama Barrow says his government will construct the road at Makkah Farafenni. The President made these remarks at well attended rally at Makkah Farafenni as part of his countrywide tour. He also promised to bring electricity in the area and reiterated that the harsh economic situation is as a result of global crisis. President Barrow said he will continue to work for the Gambian people even after leaving office. He told farmers that the groundnut trade season this year would be a pleasant one as the buying price has been increased by four thousand dalasis. He therefore urged farmers to sell their nuts to the Gambia government.He reminded farmers that government had subsidised fertilisers to make it easy for farmers. The President disclosed that development partners such as the world Bank would provide funds for the purchase of fertiliser for the coming farming season. He therefore encouraged farmers to increase rice cultivation to enable the country to feed itself. President Barrow also said his government is taking over the just concluded Tekki fee project and said the aim is to create employment for young people.He decried the lack of interest in vocational training institutes as unfortunate. He sighted the President's International Award training centre in Kerewan where he said the centre is struggling to attract students.

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President Barrow holds meeting at Ndugu kebbeh

President Adama Barrow has said that the harsh economic conditions in the country were as a result of global economic crisis. The President made these remarks at meeting at Ndugu kebbeh as he embark on a nationwide tour. He said his government is working hard in trying to alleviate the situation. The President said his government has procured food items which were now being sold at a reduced price. He expressed gratitude to the people who recognised his government's efforts in developing the country. He told farmers that the buying price of groundnuts has been increased this year and urged farmers to sell their nuts to the Gambia. The president told the gathering that his visit was not a political campaign but to dialogue with the people.  

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THE RISE OF MODEST FASHION: MODEST MODELING AGENCY STAGES FIRST ISLAMIC FASHION SHOW The quest to Give modesty a viable space and representation on the runway gains strength in the

 Gambia as fashion houses move to embrace Islamic style trends.Part of the youth wave driving style trends, Modest fashion is tremendously evolving in the local fashion industry, with the first ever runway event showcasing latest hijabi designs featuring Islamic dress modes and modest fashion enthusiasts.Pioneered by young Fatima Muloshi and her modest modeling agency specialized in promoting hijabi fashion to diversify the runaway.Making it a cultural appeal and unifying platform, organisers aim to broaden Islam fashion to dispel stereotypes.The exquisite display of unique fashion pieces gives the modest niche show infinite power in the growing fashion market.The rare stage affair was graced by modest fashion influencers like Fatoumatta Ceesay, widely called Fatisha, uses online platforms to showcase her love for modest fashion.The runway is also creating a spotlight for modest apparel designers to exhibit their brands, giving them exposure to a new economic opportunity.For these young ladies, blending a little fashion in modest clothing is an opportunity to reclaim feminity. The trend is hugely altering stereotypical understanding of Muslim apparels and showpiece for all identities.Events like this underscore the new dawn in fashion industry embracing diversity and despite the hitches, the modeling agency is persistent in putting Islamic fashion on the spotlight

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President Adama Barrow embarks on 21 day Nationwide tour

President Adama Barrow will on Monday set off for nationwide tour across the country. The twenty one day tour will give the President the opportunity to meet with locals and discuss issues affecting national development. President Barrow will hold hold rallys and visit numerous project sites to assess progress and challenges. 

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President Barrow launches National Employment Policy Action Plan

His Excellency, President Adama Barrow, on Friday presided over the closure of the Tekki Fii Programme and launching of the National Employment Policy and Action Plan, 2022-2026.The President said, “The two events have a bearing on each other, with the Policy providing long-term solutions to the challenges that the TEKKI FII intervention sought to address in the short term. In view of the positive results of the TEKKI FII Programme, it is with a deep sense of accomplishment and much optimism for the future that I join you here in person.There is no doubt that we have made important gains since 2017, and the results of the Tekki Fii Programme clearly manifest this. The stories and results associated with it are indeed inspiring. Among other things, they give us renewed hope and strengthen our faith in the youth and the nation”. 

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A FLOURISHING WATERMELON SEASON: MELON SALES BRING ROBUST PROFITS FOR FARMERS & VENDORS

It is that time of the year when almost everyone is grabbing a slice of watermelon as the fruit season  takes on a fresh bloom bringing record supplies of watermelon in markets across the country. Farmers are enjoying massive bumper yields with fruit harvests beating most crops as markets welcome fresh produce.Watermelon is a highly cultivated fruit worldwide, the green fruit with a delightfully  juicy taste, is from the Cucurbitaceae family, which produces nutrient loaded plants with many health benefits.As in other west African countries, watermelon is a profitable agribusiness venture in the Gambia, with businessmen and women cultivating massive productions delivering bumper supplies  across the metropolis where established selling points are churning significant profits everyday.After a successful harvest season, the fruit is transported from farms to wholesale and retail dealers in all parts of the city. The fruit however comes with a rather short life span that  makes it difficult to keep fresh produce for a long spell after harvesting. Without a ready made market, the fruit gets spoiled within a short duration but others have techniques to keep it fresh.Also making ends meet from the watermelon business are wheelbarrow watermelon sellers, trading juicy slices for pedestrian passerby’s.Watermelon Vendor Alfusainey Jallow has been in the watermelon business for years, he told us that the business has not been stable due to adverse variations of water prices. But attractive slices are still pulling customers despite the high price.After a grueling day at work, Omar Cham and his friends gather at Westfield to buy watermelon slices from Alfusainey to quench their craving and unwind.For most consumers its crucial to eat the fruit regularly before the season ends, as the chance to witness a bumper watermelon sales that happen once a year. On a hot afternoon, eating fruit with high water content keeps the body hydrated, according to experts watermelon is one of the fruits lowest in calories.The fruit is 92 percent water and rich in potassium and vitamins C, A, B and many other nutrients that blend to make the fruit a vital resource for beverages and smoothies.The Gambia’s shores are endowed with immense natural resources and watermelon makes significant yields despite environmental challenges.

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IEC sets dates for local government polls

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has announced that the commission elections of ward Councillors will take place in April, and polls for chairpersons/mayors will be held in May 2023.120 seats for ward councillors will be up for grabs while 8 local Government chairpersons/mayors positions will be available for contests. The announcement was made by the IEC chairman Alieu Momar Njie at the IEC-stakeholders consultative forum and the launch of activities leading to the local government elections at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre on Wednesday.He said the IEC is currently implementing the activities of the electoral cycle of 2021 to 2023, and the conduct of local Government elections is key to the electoral activities.He said legal requirements were reasons for the scheduling of different dates for the councillors and chairperson/mayoral elections.  

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Planned November 11th Protest postponed following mediations

The Coalition of Progressive Gambians (CoPG), has put on hold its planned protest over the high cost of living in the country. The protest was planned to take place on November 11th. The protest was called off following a two-day mediation effort by the Gambia supreme Islamic council and Peace Network. The parties agreed to hold dialogues over the issues that aggrieved the organisers of the protest.The Coalition of Progressive Gambians called for a protest demanding that the government stem the high cost of living, promote transparency, and provide better services for the people.The announcement of the truce was made at a press conference held at the headquarters of the Supreme Islamic Council in Kanifing. The parties agreed that the Government would dialogue with The Coalition of Progressive Gambians.They also agreed that The Gambia Supreme Islamic Council and Peace Network to continue leading the engagements between The Coalition of Progressive Gambians and the Government of The Gambia.The president of the Supreme Islamic Council, Sheikh Essa Darboe said the Islamic Council was concerned when it learned about the nationwide peaceful demonstration. He acknowledged that demonstration could be some kind of a solution, but suggested that alternative means such as dialogue can be used to solve the problem. The Chairman of the Coalition of Progressive Gambians, Seedy Cham disclosed that the authorities had engaged them in the planned protest and advocated for peace. He said the planned protest is temporarily put on hold because the government promised to address their demands. A representative of the Ministry of Information Ebrima Sankareh (not the government spokesperson) confirmed that the Government of the Gambia is a party to the agreement with the coalition of Progressive Gambians.

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Latest Updates

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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.  

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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