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PRESIDENT BARROW HOSTS COMMONWEALTH CHIEF, WOMEN’S CHAMBER IN BACK-TO-BACK STATE HOUSE MEETINGS

In a series of meetings at the State House, President H.E. Adama Barrow hosted Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayokor Botchwey and members of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday.Secretary-General Botchwey was accompanied by Serign Modou Njie, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. After they met with the President, Botchwey stated that her visit was part of her tour of Commonwealth member states aimed at "strengthening cooperation" in areas of mutual interest.H.E President Adama Barrow with the Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayokor Botchwey. [PC: State House]She assured that the Commonwealth will continue to engage with The Gambia to support development, capacity building, and democracy. Additionally, she formally invited the President to the Commonwealth Heads of State and Government summit in Antigua later in November.In a separate meeting, the members of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce updated the President on their activities and the challenges they face. Naffie Barry, the Managing Director of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce, described the meeting as very productive, noting that they received strong reassurances of support from the Gambian leader.Photo session of members of the Gambia Women's Chamber of Commerce with H.E Adama Barrow [PC: State House]She expressed gratitude to the President for the audience and conveyed hope that the meeting would lead to positive outcomes for Gambian women.

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VP JALLOW HOSTS FLURRY OF COURTESY CALLS: UNITY, AUTISM, STUDENT NURSES TOP AGENDA

A flurry of activity took place as several associations paid a courtesy call on His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, the Vice President of The Republic of The Gambia, to introduce their groups and explore potential areas for cooperation.The first to arrive were members of the 'I Am Gambian Association,' a movement dedicated to fostering unity and national pride in the pursuit of sustainable national development.Famara Manka, the President of the association, explained the focus of their visit after a closed-door discussion with Vice President Jallow. He stated that the association, founded last year, is committed to expanding its reach across the country to achieve its goals. "I Am Gambian Association is dedicated to bringing Gambians together. We aim to overlook our tribal, religious, and cultural differences and embrace the belief of 'I am a Gambian,'" he added.(Members of the 'I Am Gambian Association. PC: OVP)Shortly after noon, the Vice President welcomed members of the Gambia Autism Support and Advocacy Network, who visited to highlight their work and seek stronger collaboration with the government.Following some preliminary formalities, the group engaged in closed-door talks with Vice President Jallow and his top officials. They discussed issues ranging from raising awareness to inclusion and support for individuals with autism and their families.Abdou-Majid Jallow, the National Coordinator of the Gambia Autism Support and Advocacy Network, described the purpose of their visit. "We aim to involve the Vice President in raising awareness and advocating for people living with autism in this country, as there is still a significant amount of stigma and misconception surrounding it," he said.(Members of the Gambia Autism Support and Advocacy Network. PC: OVP)The day's courtesy calls concluded with a meeting of the Gambia Student Nurses Association.After engaging with Vice President Jallow and his senior officials, Maha Sowe, the president of the Gambia Student Nurses Association, outlined their discussions, noting the Vice President's strong support for their cause."The Vice President is considerate and genuinely wants to help Gambian students, especially student nurses. He assured us that his office would see what assistance they could provide."(Members of the Gambia Student Nurses Association. PC: OVP)These organisations are hopeful that they can rely on the Office of the Vice President for stronger government support moving forward.

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PRESIDENT BARROW BRIEFED ON UTG CONVOCATION AS 1,600 SET TO GRADUATE IN FARABA

Officials from the University of The Gambia paid a courtesy call on the President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, at State House on Tuesday. The delegation was led by the Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology and comprised the Vice Chancellor Professor Herbert Robinson, the Chairman of the Governing Council Prof Momodou Mustapha Fanneh and the Registrar Bobo Baldeh. They were at the State House to update the President,  who is also the Chancellor of the University on the upcoming convocation ceremony at the Faraba Banta campus, where over 1,600 students are expected to graduate after fulfilling all requirements in their different fields of study. Speaking to reporters after they met with President Barrow, Professor Herbert Robinson, the Vice Chancellor, disclosed that discussions were good and productive as they had agreed on all the details of the much-anticipated convocation ceremony later this weekend.Professor Herbert Robinson, the Vice Chancellor of the University of The Gambia  (pic: State House)“Over 1,600 students will graduate this year from the 9 schools of the University,  among them the first Doctoral graduates and graduates from the new school of Dentistry,” Professor Robinson added.The Vice Chancellor further expressed gratitude to the president and the Higher Education Minister for the support to the University, noting that the UTG has “seen massive investment and modernisation in infrastructure over the years” attributing this to President Barrow's “personal commitment” to the higher education sector.

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2026 PERMANENT SECRETARIES’ RETREAT: VP JALLOW AFFIRMS GOVERNMENT’S RESOLVE TO FULFIL NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN

The Vice President, His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow, has presided over the opening ceremony of the first quarter 2026 Permanent Secretaries’ Retreat at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo. The convergence which brought together permanent secretaries to look at development trajectories of the government agencies, is convened under the auspices of the Ministry of Public Service, Administrative Reforms, Policy Coordination and Delivery, and the Office of the Secretary to Cabinet and Head of the Civil Service. Permanent secretaries might not be seen frequently on the front line, but they are the technicians pulling the strings behind the woodwork to ensure efficiency at various government ministries.This four-day retreat will enable them to reflect on the progress made in implementing the Recovery Focused National Development Plan 2023-2027 and how they can continue to work together to speed up implementation. Presiding over the event, the Vice President, Mohammed B.S Jallow, said achieving sustainable development requires collaboration, affirming the government's resolve in policy guidance to realise the goals of the national development plan. “Sustainable development cannot be achieved by the government alone. It requires the collective effort and synergy of all stakeholders—the public sector, private sector, civil society, academia, and citizens alike.”“The Government of The Gambia will continue to provide clear policy direction, sound governance frameworks, and accountable leadership,” he stated.With geopolitical tension disturbing many economies across developing countries, these technicians will be compelled to accelerate the implementation of flagship projects under the Recovery-Focused National Development Plan with Vice President Mohammed B.S Jallow assuring the full backing of the government. “Let me reaffirm that the Government, under the leadership of His Excellency President Adama Barrow, remains firmly committed to strengthening the civil service and modernising public service delivery to meet the evolving needs of our people,” VP Jallow said. “The significant enhancement of civil service remuneration—by up to 130 per cent—reflects our dedication to improving welfare, boosting morale, and enhancing productivity within the public sector,” he added. Baboucar Bouy, the Minister for Public Service, urged permanent secretaries to help their ministries work to meet the growing needs of the citizenry. “The theme: “Delivering the National Development Plan: Unified Actions for Tangible Results,” speaks directly to our collective responsibility. It highlights a fundamental truth, and that is, fragmentation only undermines progress, while unity of purpose drives progress,” the Public Service Minister said.On the move to attain the Recovery-Focused National Development Plan, Alieu Njie, the Secretary to the Cabinet and Head of the Civil Service, called for the prioritisation of issues that can positively benefit the citizens. “As we move closer to the end of the National Development Plan cycle and towards the next electoral period. The window for delivering results is narrowing. This creates urgency. The work we do over the coming months will shape public confidence in government performance.”“We must prioritise what matters most. What can be delivered within the time frame and what will have the greatest impact on our citizens. The responsibility before us is clear. The success of the Recovery Focused National Development Plan will not be judged by the design but by the results,” Njie said. Hopes are high that by the time these technicians return for the second quarter retreat, they will be able to look back and count their achievements in the attainment of the national development plan 2023-2027.

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GAMBIA LAUNCHES WEST AFRICA’S FIRST AI CENTRE TO FIGHT FAKE NEWS

The Vice President His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow has on behalf of the President H.E Adama Barrow presided over the launch of The Gambia's National Misinformation and Disinformation Response Centre, a landmark AI-powered government platform for detecting and responding to Misinformation.” It is established under the Ministry of Information and funded by ECOWAS. This move by the Gambia government is meant to equip citizens with critical tools needed to navigate an increasingly complex information landscape. The centre has been described as the first of its kind in West Africa. Vice President, H.E Mohammed B.S Jallow who delivered the launch statement on behalf of the President H.E Adama Barrow, said the government chooses not to control or censor but to ensure clarity and truth within the information ecosystem. (Vice President, H.E Mohammed B.S Jallow)“We know what it means to live under a government that controls information as a weapon. We know what it costs us. President Barrow's government has chosen a different path: not control, but clarity. Not censorship, but truth,” He said.The world is at a critical crossroads with the power to spread information enabling new forms of autonomy, and the potential to abuse those powers continues to rise daily.False narratives continue to circulate across social and mainstream media platforms with information weaponised to manipulate public opinion, undermine institutions, and at times, “incite division in societies” that have long been united. Vice President Jallow said, the scrutiny of the centre will cut across. “Let me be clear on that last point. No public figure, no institution, and no arm of government is above the scrutiny of this Centre.”“If a video circulates claiming to show a minister saying something he did not say, the NMDRC will investigate it. If a statement is falsely attributed to the President, the NMDRC will address it. That is not a courtesy we extend to the public. It is a commitment we make to them,” VP Jallow added. His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow further commended ECOWAS for the financial support that made this dream a reality, saying it is only fitting that the regional body invests in work that will serve the sub-region. Dr Omar Alieu Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, commended President Barrow's government for the foresight, describing Misinformation as a “key driver of insecurity” that he said continues to “undermine trust in governments.”Amran Gaye, the man behind the AI-infrastructure, conducted a visual demonstration before the audience, showcasing how the tool can be deployed to verify Misinformation and Disinformation, saying, it is built on three pillars to “detect, verify and respond” to fake information. This national disinformation and misinformation response centre puts the Gambia on a robust footing to combat fake news, ensuring leverage for the public and press to verify information.The turnout at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre was a clear justification of how the government, civil society, the international partners and the citizenry cherish this landmark AI-powered technology platform built by Dundal Systems, a Gambian technology company.

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INFORMATION MINISTRY COMMISSIONS ANTI-FAKE NEWS RESPONSE CENTRE 

The Government of The Gambia has officially commissioned the National Misinformation and Disinformation Response Centre, the first of its kind in the West African sub-region. The landmark initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, was launched at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo. The centre is designed to detect, analyse and respond to false information, harmful narratives and digital manipulation, while promoting credible and fact-based communication.Cordu L. Jabang, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Information,  described the centre as a “strategic national asset” that she said will “strengthen public trust, protect democratic institutions and improve information integrity across the country.”She thanked development partners and stakeholders for supporting the “government’s vision” to build a safer digital information environment.Amran Gaye, the Chief Executive Officer and Lead Architect of Dundal Systems - A Gambian technology company, delivered a presentation and live demonstration of the platform’s capabilities. (From left: Cordu L. Jabang, the Permanent Secretary - Ministry of Information, Amran Gaye - CEO and Lead Architect of Dundal Systems, Dr Ismaila Ceesay - Minister for Information, Aisha Davies - Director, Department of Information Services.)He showcased advanced Artificial Intelligence tools that can monitor online conversations, identify misinformation trends in real time, verify content and support rapid response mechanisms. Gaye said the technology has been “tailored to address local realities while meeting international standards.”Dr Omar Alieu Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, whose institution funded the initiative, hailed the launch as a “major milestone” for regional cooperation.He noted that misinformation and disinformation remain growing threats to “peace, democracy and security in West Africa,” adding that The Gambia has “set an example” for the region. Dr Touray reaffirmed ECOWAS's commitment to supporting member states in strengthening “digital resilience and strategic communication.”Dr Ismaila Ceesay, the Minister for Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, said the centre demonstrates the government’s commitment to “transparency, accountability and responsible communication.”He stated that the facility will serve as a hub for “research, early warning, media literacy and coordinated responses” to false narratives capable of “undermining national unity and development.” Dr Ceesay urged citizens, journalists and institutions to work together in promoting “truth and combating harmful misinformation.”The commissioning ceremony brought together government officials, diplomats, civil society representatives, media practitioners and development partners.With the launch of the centre, The Gambia becomes a regional pioneer in institutional efforts to confront the rising challenge of misinformation and disinformation in the digital age.

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PRESIDENT BARROW ENDS DECADES OF KIANG ISOLATION WITH D1.2BN, 91KM ROAD PROJECT

In a historic moment for the people of Kiang, President H.E Adama Barrow, on Saturday, officially inaugurated the 91km road linking dozens of communities in Kiang. The road project, funded at D1.2 billion, is the first of its kind in Kiang and marks a turning point for the community, which has grappled with decades of isolation and exclusion. This project is expected to open up the region to the outside world, attract investment and enhance economic opportunities.The inauguration ceremony was held at Jiffarong and attracted thousands of people who mobbed the President's motorcade as it entered the village and escorted it to the grounds amidst great fanfare. The President, flanked by the first lady,  Governor Sidi Lamin Bah and other officials, then cut the ribbons at Sankandi, marking the official inauguration of the 91km Kiang Roads Project.Speaking at the ceremony, community leaders described the project as a “historic milestone that has transformed Kiang West.”  The Alkalo of Jifarong Babanding Kinteh, the Chief of Kiang West, the youth and women's representatives at the constituency and regional levels, Fabou Sanneh and Jalika Janneh, all extended profound gratitude to President Barrow for fulfilling his promises to the people of Kiang. They recounted those difficult days when residents struggled to travel on the road, the hardships they encountered and the delays they faced, describing these as “challenging moments in the history of the area.”The speakers reassured the President that they will mobilise their constituents to “massively vote for him in December as a gesture of gratitude” for these groundbreaking developments.Sidi Lamin Bah, the Governor of the Lower River Region, underscored President Barrow's commitment to infrastructural development, noting that the Kiang West road project “will lift residents out of poverty.”The Governor appealed to the people of Kiang to “embrace the government” and “renounce the opposition,” arguing that decades of opposition support have not “brought any tangible benefits for the region.”Sulayman Sumareh, the Director General of the National Roads Authority, disclosed that this road project has been designed and constructed to “meet international standards of quality and durability.” The NRA boss said this road project brings “immense benefits” for the people as it traverses through all 33 villages in the area.The inauguration ceremony also witnessed the defection of 140 opposition supporters into the NPP. Omar Drammeh, speaking on behalf of the defectors, said they were motivated by President Barrow's “development track record, which has transformed the country.” He promised a new chapter of political realignment in Kiang as more people embrace the ruling party. Delivering his inauguration statement, President Barrow said his government is guided by the principle of “inclusive development” to ensure access to basic infrastructure and services.He noted that Kiang West has long been “neglected by previous governments” which he said “makes life difficult for residents.” This broad project, the President added, marks a turning point as it will enhance access and create unlimited opportunities.President Barrow described the new road as a “permanent symbol of transformational vision, determination and unity,” reassuring that his government will “continue to invest in road construction” with plans to undertake another 700km of road in the future. These projects, the President said are all funded from the domestic budget, with over “D18.5 billion” already spent on road projects since 2017.The President finally appealed to the people of Kiang to “support his government” to benefit from more development projects in the future.The foundation for the construction of this important road was laid in 2021, in what has become one of the most ambitious projects undertaken by the Barrow administration which places infrastructural development as a “key development priority.”This road serves as a lifeline for the people of Kiang West linking 33 villages across this vast region,  who depend on it for access to other areas.The people of Kiang rejoiced over what they believed was a new chapter in their lives, marked by decades of isolation and exclusion, which made basic travel for residents a nightmare.

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PRESIDENT BARROW DISCUSSES GAMBIA-US TIES, SAHEL SECURITY WITH ENVOYS IN BANJUL

His Excellency President Adama Barrow received two important visitors at the State House in Banjul on Friday. He first met with Eugene Young, the Charge d'Affaires of the United States Embassy in The Gambia, followed by a meeting with H.E. Dr Mamadou Tangara, the African Union Special Representative for Mali and the Sahel.During the meeting with the U.S. Charge d'Affaires, they discussed various bilateral issues between the United States and The Gambia. H.E Adama Barrow President of the Republic of The Gambia Eugene Young, the Charge d'Affaires of the United States Embassy in The Gambia. (PC: State House)In his audience with Dr Tangara, the conversation focused on the ongoing dialogue and consultation between ECOWAS and the Association of Sahel States.After meeting with President Barrow, Charge d'Affaires Young spoke to GRTS, sharing that the discussions covered several topics relevant to President Trump's global priorities, the situation of Gambians living illegally in the United States, and U.S. investments in The Gambia. The dialogue also addressed concerns regarding peace and security, particularly conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and Libya.Separately, Dr Mamadou Tangara, the African Union Special Representative for the Sahel, led a delegation to the State House. Dr Tangara, second from left with his development members. (PC: State House)Speaking to GRTS, Dr Tangara said that their meeting is part of an ongoing dialogue and consultation between ECOWAS and the Association of Sahel States aimed at addressing regional challenges. He expressed hope that the discussions would strengthen the foundations laid by previous engagements, foster trust and confidence, and enable the sub-region to effectively tackle its challenges and promote peace and stability.

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MANJAGO HEADS MEET PRESIDENT BARROW OVER KOMBO SOUTH LAND ENCROACHMENTS, URGE DIALOGUE AND LEGAL PROTECTION

The President His Excellency Adama Barrow on Wednesday met with the Manjago “Alkalolu” from the Kombo South District of the West Coast Region. The village heads represented the Manjago communities, who have expressed concerns about illegal encroachments on their ancestral land by neighbouring groups, leading to ongoing disputes and threats of violence.After the meeting, David Cardoman Gomez, the Alkalo of Faalah village shared that the Manjago communities are worried about these developments but are committed to addressing the issue through dialogue rather than confrontation, as they are law-abiding citizens. Gomez emphasised that the Manjago people are third-generation Gambians, having inherited their land from their great-grandfathers who arrived in the country long before British colonial rule. He expressed hope that the President and his government would work to resolve the land disputes affecting the Manjago community and return the land to its rightful owners, as outlined in the constitution and land policy.Yusupha Gomez, another community leader, conveyed sincere gratitude to President Barrow for hearing their concerns. He noted that through dialogue with all parties involved, an amicable solution could be reached regarding the land disputes. However, he advised the Manjago community to legally document their land to protect it from encroachments by speculators and neighbouring communities.Mr Gomez described President Barrow as tolerant, accommodating, and open to dialogue, expressing hope that the meeting would lead to a positive outcome, as they had presented a comprehensive report to him.

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CALL FOR OB VAN BIDDING

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  • GRTS
  • April 21, 2026 11:04
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GAMBIA’S NEW ENVOY TO SERBIA PRESENTS CREDENTIALS, EYES COOPERATION IN AGRICULTURE, EDUCATION, ICT

The Gambia’s Ambassador to Belgium and the European Union, H.E. Pa Musa Jobarteh, recently presented his Letters of Credence to Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, formally accrediting him as The Gambia’s Ambassador to the Republic of Serbia.The ceremony was held at the Presidential Palace in Belgrade.Ambassador Jobarteh conveyed fraternal greetings from President Adama Barrow to the Serbian President, Government, and people. He underscored Banjul’s commitment to deepen bilateral ties with Belgrade.During a tête-à-tête with President Vucic, the two discussed key areas for cooperation where both nations could benefit, including higher education, agriculture, engineering, tourism, and ICT.Ambassador Jobarteh highlighted The Gambia’s interest in agricultural mechanisation and scholarships for Gambians to study at Serbian universities, saying both would “greatly contribute to the socioeconomic development of the country.” The two sides also agreed to explore economic cooperation between the Chambers of Commerce of The Gambia and Serbia.President Vucic welcomed Ambassador Jobarteh to Serbia and congratulated him on his appointment. He noted The Gambia’s developing political and economic progress and reaffirmed Serbia’s commitment to support Banjul in the priority areas raised by the ambassador.Ambassador Jobarteh is The Gambia’s Ambassador to Belgium and the European Union, with concurrent accreditation to Serbia.

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  • GRTS
  • April 20, 2026 10:05
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VP Jallow Meets Gambians in New York

His Excellency Mohammed BS Jallow, Vice President of the Republic of The Gambia, recently met with members of the Gambian Community in Bronx, New York.The visit underscores the Government of The Gambia's continued commitment to engaging with Gambians living abroad, listening to their concerns, and strengthening the bond between the homeland and the diaspora.

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  • OVP
  • April 18, 2026 01:21

Latest Updates

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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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PRESIDENT BARROW RECEIVES ATAF DELEGATION, HAILED AS MODEL FOR TAX REFORMS

President Adama Barrow on Thursday received officials attending the annual African Tax Administration Forum Masterclass at State House.The delegation was led by the Commissioner General of the Gambia Revenue Authority, Yankuba Darboe, who briefed the President on the objectives and outcomes of the three-day meeting in Banjul. The Masterclass brought together tax administrators from across Africa to deliberate on tax administration, revenue collection, and the challenges and opportunities facing the continent.Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Commissioner General Darboe described the engagement as "very productive," noting that discussions centred on tax administration, revenue collection, and common challenges facing authorities in Africa.He commended President Barrow for the government’s support to GRA’s reforms, which he said have transformed revenue collection in The Gambia over the last 10 years.“As a result of these reforms, revenue collection has increased significantly. We have moved from collecting D3 billion in one year to now collecting D3 billion in one month,” Darboe said.The Executive Secretary of ATAF, Mary Baine, commended President Barrow for receiving the delegation. She said ATAF wants him to champion the call for stronger and more resilient tax administration systems across Africa, drawing on The Gambia’s model.The Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of ATAF also praised The Gambia for its political will and commitment to financing development through domestic revenue. They described the approach as more sustainable, noting that Africa cannot continue to depend on external financing for its development needs.The Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Seedy Keita, congratulated the GRA for hosting a successful ATAF Masterclass. He said the event is a vote of confidence in The Gambia’s tax administration system, which continues to serve as a model for others on the continent.The meeting was attended by senior tax administration officials and experts who are using the forum to strategise the way forward for tax administration and revenue mobilisation in Africa. 

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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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2026 COMMONWEALTH GAMES OPEN IN GLASGOW AS TEAM GAMBIA JOINS PARADE OF NATIONS 

The 2026 Commonwealth Games officially got underway in Glasgow, with Team Gambia joining athletes from 74 nations and territories at a spectacular opening ceremony at the Hydro.His Majesty King Charles III formally declared the Games open, alongside Queen Camilla, in front of thousands of spectators.In a surprise entrance, King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrived from the iconic TARDIS to cheers from the crowd inside the Hydro.The ceremony celebrated Scotland’s culture with music, dance, and stunning visual displays. Glasgow’s heritage was honoured through performances by Scottish artists, while the Scottish Baton made its final journey before being presented to the King.Athletes from all 74 Commonwealth nations and territories took part in the Parade of Nations.Among them was Team Gambia, proudly marching alongside more than 3,000 athletes set to compete in 10 sports and six Para sports over the next 10 days.For The Gambia, the ceremony marks the start of another opportunity for its athletes to compete on the international stage and inspire supporters back home.Officially declaring the Games open, King Charles welcomed the Commonwealth family to Glasgow and praised the city for hosting the event for the fourth time.Competition now begins as athletes chase medals and national pride in what promises to be 10 days of sport across Glasgow. 

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VP JALLOW OPENS ATAF MASTER CLASS IN BANJUL, URGES STRONGER DOMESTIC RESOURCE MOBILISATION 

The Vice President, Mohammed B.S. Jallow, on Wednesday officially opened the African Tax Administration Forum in Banjul on behalf of President Adama Barrow.Tax administrators from across the continent gathered for the 7th Heads of Tax Administrations Master Class to discuss ways to strengthen revenue collection in Africa.Delegates came from different countries with diverse legal systems and institutional backgrounds, but share a common goal: to strengthen Africa’s capacity to mobilise domestic resources to improve lives.Delivering the President’s statement, Vice President Jallow said domestic resource mobilisation has been a central pillar of The Gambia’s national development agenda.“Since the inception of my administration in 2017, domestic resource mobilisation has featured prominently on The Gambia’s national development agenda,” he said. “This strategic focus is informed by the growing realisation that African governments cannot achieve sustainable prosperity, economic resilience, and true sovereignty by relying indefinitely on external loans, grants, and development assistance.”The Vice President noted that African economies have faced devastating calamities, global supply chain disruptions, and uncertainties arising from conflicts around the world. He said that these challenges have forced many countries to undertake major reforms to modernise their revenue administration, and that The Gambia has been a beneficiary of those reforms.“Today, The Gambia is reaping the benefits of these reforms through improved efficiency, enhanced transparency, stronger revenue performance, and increased domestic resources to support our national development aspirations,” he said.Vice President Jallow also commended the leadership of the Gambia Revenue Authority, saying it reflects the theme of the Master Class.“The Commissioner General’s leadership stature stands as a practical example of the theme of this Master Class, that great institutions are built by leaders who have the courage to embrace change and the determination to see it through,” he said.For his part, the Commissioner General of the Gambia Revenue Authority, Yankuba Darboe, said the Master Class has been a source of inspiration for his leadership.“When I say this Master Class has had a profound impact on my own leadership journey. Since the launch of this initiative, I have had the privilege of participating in several editions, often accompanied by my Deputy Commissioner General,” Darboe said. “Every year, we return home with new ideas, fresh perspectives, and practical lessons from fellow Commissioners General who have faced challenges similar to those confronting us in The Gambia.”After the deliberations in Banjul, the tax administrators are expected to leave with renewed strategies to combat base erosion, profit shifting, and illicit financial flows that deprive Africa of much-needed development resources.Participants of the 2026 ATAF Master Class are also expected to adopt a communique outlining key recommendations for tax administration across the continent.

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