The Ministry of Foreign affairs and Gambians abroad says it is working with Dubai authorities in securing the release of Gambian detainees there. A statement from the ministry said that thirty four Gambians were being held at an immigration detention camp in the United Arab Emirates.
Continue Reading >>His Excellency President has urged TICAD member states and partners to work together to transform Africa’s challenges into opportunities to drive its development priorities. The President was speaking on 27th August 2022 at the TICAD8 Conference in Tunisia. President Barrow emphasised the urgent need to support Africa’s youthful and diverse population to explore green businesses and other development opportunities. He said Africa is a burgeoning continent, but it must redouble efforts to explore its development objectives. ‘‘Africa presents unique opportunities for closer cooperation with the world, but we must build enough capacity to finance and drive our development sustainably.” He noted. Speaking on the Japanese Government’s support to the continent amidst the ongoing global economic crisis, President Barrow commended the Japanese Prime Minister, His Excellency Fumio Kishida, and the Government and people of Japan ‘‘for assuming greater prominence in the collective endeavour to build resilient economies, communities, and environmental systems’’. President Barrow further expressed that while the continent needs to manage its biodiversity and ecosystem services effectively, it is equally vital to share best practices with the globe to overcome its development challenges. TICAD is a process involving not only African countries but also international organisations, the private sector, and civil society working for Africa’s development and promoting high-level political dialogue between African leaders and their partners on issues related to economic growth, trade and investment, sustainable development, human security, and governance.
Continue Reading >>His Excellency President Adama Barrow and his delegation have arrived in the Tunisian capital, Tunis, for the Eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD8). The President was received at the Airport by the Tunisian Prime Minister, Her Excellency Najla Bouden. The conference will bring together African leaders and their partners to discuss development objectives geared toward integrating Africa into the emerging global chain of research, innovation, technology and science.
Continue Reading >>The department of physical planning has embarked on a demolition exercise in the Jabang area. The structures being demolished are said to be built on waterways blocking the flowing of water. In a letter dated 20th August 2022, sent to homeowners in Jabang, the department of physical planning and housing stated that the buildings were erected without a development permit and without prior approval of the Banjul planning authority. The letter ordered homeowners to remove or demolish the structures before the 22nd of August 2022. Distressed homeowners expressed anger at the action of the planning authorities, claiming they legally acquired the properties from the Social security and housing finance cooperation. They complained that the demolition notice came under forty-eight hours before the structures went under the hammer.
Continue Reading >>The Small Ruminant Production Enhancement Project (SRPEP) through the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) recently signed six (6) contracts for the construction of the project’s major infrastructure facilities. The Ministry of agricumture announced on its social media handle that the contracts were awarded to Gambian contractors. The statement indicated that the facilities include community pastures, rehabilitation of DLS LAB Abuko, a veterinary drug outlets, a fattening and breeding schemes, mini dairy, milk collection centres, slaughterhouses, meat stalls, and farmer demonstration in YBK. Mamud Njie, SRPEP project director said the facilities will help the project fulfill its objective of improving the livelihood of livestock farmers and strengthen the production and productivity and resilience of rural communities. He added that it will stimulate business entrepreneurship in the livestock sector.
Continue Reading >>An eleven (11) member team deployed by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has arrived in Banjul. They were received by the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) and the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Banjul. A statement from the UN Banjul office says the team was deployed following consultations between The Gambia Government and the UN Resident Coordinator’s office due to the recent flooding, support was requested for UNDAC deployment. The team will support the emergency response to the recent flood that claimed the lives of eleven people, rendered over five thousand others homeless, and severely affected over 40,000 people. Several communities remain submerged following the 31st July deluge causing a high risk of disease outbreaks due to contaminated waters. The team of experts will support the country in various areas such as:– Disaster and emergency assessment, analysis and coordination processes assessment & analysis, mapping, situational analysis, and coordination. – Strengthening information management systems.– Humanitarian resource mobilization through OCHA funding tools and other options through key humanitarian donors. – Assessment, reporting, and coordinating response to environmental impacts arising from the flood impacts. – Public health assessment and coordination of response to public health impacts arising from the floods.
Continue Reading >>The West African Examinations Council, Banjul office is pleased to announce the release of the results of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for School Candidates, 2022. A total of 15, 360 candidates from 136 Seniors Secondary Schools registered for the examination. This represents a decrease in the candidature of 5.38% over the previous year's entry figure of 16, 234 candidates.Out of the 15, 360 candidates that registered for the examination this year 6, 319 (41.14%) were male, while 9, 041 (58.86%) were female.In the 2022 WASSCE for school candidates, The Gambian candidates registered in 32 subjects which included English Language, Mathematics, and a host of Science, Arts, Commerce, Technical and Vocational subjects.Six hundred and five (605) candidates (3.94%) obtained credit passes in five subjects and above including English language and Mathematics. On a gender basis, 316 (5.00%) male candidates had five credit passes and above in which English Language and Mathematics are included, while 289 (3.20%) female candidates had five credit passes and above in which English Language and Mathematics are included.A summary of the performance in WASSCE for school candidates, 2022 in terms of the number of credit passes obtained and the percentage of candidates that obtained such (a) number of credit passes is given below. Credit Passes In Numbers of Candidates % of Candidates 9 subjects 201 1.31 8 subjects 336 2.19 7 subjects 426 2.77 6 subjects 547 3.56 5 subjects 679 4.42 4 subjects 932 6.07 3 subjects 1,262 8.22 2 subjects 2,049 13.34 1 subjects 3,667 23.87 On behalf of the Chairman and Registrar to the Council, the Head of National Office wishes to register the Council’s profound appreciation of the immense support rendered by The Gambia Government through the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE). In a similar vein, the Council also recognises and appreciates the fruitful efforts of other stakeholders, including its esteemed Examiners, Principals of Senior Secondary Schools as well as the Conference of Principals of Senior Secondary Schools (GAMCOP) who immensely contributed to the successful conduct of the examination.
Continue Reading >>Gina Bass has successfully defended her title in the women’s 200m race at the Islamic games in Konya, Turkey. Bass finished the dash in 22.63 seconds, an unprecedented feat ever achieved by a Gambian track and field athlete. Gina is now the most decorated Gambian track and field athlete. Wurrie Njadoe, a promising young Gambian athlete finished fourth in the finals.
Continue Reading >>The Office of the President regrets to inform the public that an unfortunate fatal accident involving five State Guard personnel occurred today at Ndemban while escorting reserve vehicles of the convoy to Mankamang Kunda.Four security personnel, Lance Corporal Kebba Sanneh, Corporal Ansumana Danso, Lance Corporal Saikou Touray, and Lance Corporal Ousman Jobe, were pronounced dead at Bwiam General Hospital.First Class Ndedeh Bahoum is currently being managed at Bwiam General Hospital, and his condition is reported Non Critical and Clinically Stable. All clinical assessments and initial investigations are considered normal and will be subsequently referred to Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital- Ndemban Center for further specialist assessment and evaluation. President Barrow profoundly regrets this unfortunate accident and prays Allah Subhana wa ta'allah to grant them the highest of Jannah. The President extends his deepest sorrow to their families and wishes Ndedeh Bahoum a speedy recovery.
Continue Reading >>The Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital has announced the emergence of a rare condition currently under observation in the Paediatric Outpatient. A statement from the hospital said the condition is severe and already causing mortality in children. It says samples were collected from affected children and awaiting results from the lab. They present with diarrhea, vomiting, and reduced urination output. Doctors are said to be working hard to establish the cause of the condition. Meanwhile, the public is urged to be vigilant and report to the nearest health facility if their child has the above symptoms mentioned earlier.
Continue Reading >>President Adama Barrow on Monday took time from his holiday and toured flood-affected areas in Banjul to assess the extent of the damage. This is the second time the president went round meeting victims of the floods in Banjul and other parts of the greater Banjul area. “Despite being on holiday, if my people are in such situations I must be part of it. The safety and security of the people of Banjul and all Gambians is my responsibility. We will work until the problem is solved''. President Barrow said.
Continue Reading >>The 44th ordinary session of the assembly of African central bank governors opened at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara conference centre. The objectives of the Association of African Central Bank Governors are to promote cooperation on monetary, banking, and financial matters in Africa. They conform to the principles of the African Union Free Trade Area established to integrate African economies. The meeting brings together central Bank governors from across Africa for deliberations on the economic and financial situation on the continent with a particular focus on digital innovation and the future of the financial sector, opportunities, and challenges for central bank digital Currencies. The theme for the conference is digital innovations and the future of the financial sector: Opportunities and challenges for central bank digital currencies. The meeting comes at a time of great uncertainty for the global economy, particularly in Africa caused by rising food and energy prices driven by, climate change, outbreaks of Pandemics, and the conflict in Eastern Europe. President Adama Barrow said the meeting marks another important step toward the adoption of a single currency and a common central Bank in Africa. He said digital innovations have the potential to transform the global financial landscape. President Barrow also tasked the central bank governors to come up with practical suggestions that could help countries overcome the current food and energy challenges that threaten socio-political and economic stability. The governor of the central bank of the Gambia Buah Saidy expressed hope that the meeting will chart a new course for Africa. Governor Saidy said the continent can build strong and resilient economies.The IMF country representative Mamadou Juldeh Barry acknowledges the important role of digital currencies in the modern financial system, as more people in both the formal and informal sectors embrace the technologies. He warned against any wholesale unplanned adoption of such systems as they can be riskyThe central Bank governors will continue discussing the agenda items to come up with a harmonized approach to the issues confronting the continent
Continue Reading >>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 >>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 >>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 >>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 >>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 >>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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