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REPGam project asses energy needs for communities

Officials of REPGam project on Monday began data collection in beneficiary communities including institutions to assess the energy needs before the implementation of the project later this year. The delegation visited Ndemban Technical and Vocational education centre in the west coast region where the ministry of Higher education research science and technology plans to transform the centre to a full fledged Vocational training facility. The REPGam project is working on implementing solar power supply in 26 beneficiaries including communities and institutions. The delegation comprising technicians from various stakeholders examine the geographic cordinates of the facility for adequate and proper installation of solar power systems. Speaking to GRTS, the deputy director of the REPGam project Dr Ebrima Sonko explains the modality of the project saying SUN Farming a German company is contracted to install the solar system in all the beneficiary communities. He said the project will reduce the country's dependency of fossil fuel as well as complement goverment's efforts in providing clean affordable and reliable energy supply. Dr Sonko said the centre has the potential to accommodate different areas of discipline in Vocational education and training thus significant amount of energy supply will be required. The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research who are supporting African countries to fight the impact of climate change through renewable sources of energy. The team will proceed to Bansang General hospital for a similar exercise. 

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BERLIN ENERGY DIALOGUE FORUM DISCUSSED GLOBAL ENERGY POLICY AND CLIMATE ACTION

At  the 8th Berlin Energy Dialogue Forum which is happening at the face of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, experts renewed calls for more action in relation to embracing renewable energy as a solution to climate change and their related mishaps. They include UN secretary general, Antonio Gutares and Annalena Baerbock, Germany's Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs who called for reduction in global emissions. The UN chief also stated that the world needs to fix the problem of it's global energy mix. For individuals such as Germany's Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, Svenja Schulze, renewable energy sources are the answer to both the climate and energy crisis.At a time when the crisis in Ukraine is taking toll on the global energy and economy, the 8th edition of the energy conclave attracted experts, politicians, business leaders and journalists from across the globe to discuss the future of energy policy and climate action for a better world.

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GERMAN FOUNDATION (DSIK) SIGNS MOU WITH NACCUG AND TWO OTHER UNIONSGerman

 Foundation for International Cooperation (DSIK) sings a memorandum of understanding with National Association of Cooperative Credit Unions of The Gambia (NACCUG), Gambia Police Force Cooperative Credit Union and Medical and Health Credit Union. As per the memorandum, the two credit unions will benefit from a project grant of 2.7 million Dalasi. Aside from providing NACCUG with technical assistance, its general manager, Foday Sanyang said the idea is to enhance small and medium enterprises of credit union members.DSIK country representative pictured the project as special. Gabriele Freigrau v. dem Bussce talked of the project's specialty in the sense that it does not focus on collateral as a benchmark for loans. The board vice-chairman of Medical and Health Credit Union Abdul Aziz Ceesay said it is important that they are a chosen pilot to propagate entrepreneurship amongst credit unionists. Pa Singhateh equally portrayed the grant as a financial facility that will be beneficial to members since it will scale up thier business.The financial enhancement is expected to last for a year with possible extension in time and beneficiaries.

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Over a hundred youths complete Youth Service Scheme

134 youth were on Tuesday sworn in as Corp members of the National Youth Service Scheme two-year skills acquisition training program. This is the 14th  badge of the scheme since it's establishment in 1996 and it comprises of young men and women including hard of hearing. The Swearing in ceremony led by Justice idrissa F Mbai is part of the fundamental activities of the scheme for the youth to take an oath of service to Nation. Speaking at the event Gibril ngorr Secka said the scheme is a government founded program aimed at enhancing the skills of young people for employment and economic growth. Mr Ismaila Ceesay the CEO of insight Training Center spoke of the importance of a skillful youth population in national development.The Board Chairperson of NYSS Alhagie Kebbeh assured of NYSS and government’s commitment to an all inclusive youth empowerment  program.The Executive Director of NYSS Emmanuel Mendy discussed the components of the orientation program.Several other speakers including one Corp member Ida Njie thanked government and the NYSS for the initiative saying it will enable them to get employment and contribute meaningfully to National development Participants are now set to undergo a two-year skills training program in different professional areas.

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Gambia Narrowly go through to AFCON 2023 Qualifiers

Assan Ceesay scores a brace as the the Gambia stumbled to is to the final round of the 2023 AFCON qualifiers.  The Gambia won 3-2 on aggregate over Chad after two legs. Chad nearly ended The Gambia's dream as they led the game to the dying minutes before Assan Ceesay equalising through a penalty. Despite a 2-2 draw at their temporary home in Agadir, Morocco, the Scorpions 1-0 win in the first leg in Cameroon decided  the tie. 

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President Barrow Promises electricity and water supply to Kerr Layen

Continuing his tour in the Central River Region South, President Adama Barrow held meetings in Kerr Layen, Dalaba, and Sinchu Alaji all in the Niaminas. At the meetings, the President renewed his commitment to the socio-economic development of the CRR with emphasis on road infrastructure, education, healthcare, electricity and water for rural communities. The president also galvanised support for NPP candidates and called on people to vote for them. President Barrow finally thanked the people of Kerr Layen for the turnout and promised to provide them with electricity and water. The President and entourage proceeded to Dalaba in Niamina West where he also thanked the people for their continued support for the NPP. Other speakers during the rallies were Tourism Minister Hamat Bah, NPP candidates from the various constituencies, and a host of other politicians.

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Three more candidates pull out of the race to the national Assembly

Three more candidates have withdrawn from the upcoming national assembly elections barely a fortnight before the polls. The Independent Electoral Commission on Monday announced that Mustapha S Cham, the PDOIS candidate for Lower Saloum, Selou Bah, the Independent candidate for Upper Saloum, and Malick Jassey, the Independent candidate for Lower Saloum have all withdrawn. The IEC has since accepted their withdrawals.The IEC also announced that by-elections will be held in four wards in the Kanifing and Brikama administrative areas.  On Saturday 14th May by-elections will be held in Bundung Six Junction, London Corner, Sanyang, and Marakissa. Nomination of candidates for the by-elections will be conducted from 25th to 29 April between 8 am and 4 pm at the respective IEC Regional Offices in Brikama and Kanifing.

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The Gambia government dismisses claims of a delay in the new pay and grading scale

The government of the Gambia has refuted claims on social media that the new pay and grading has been rescheduled. The government was reacting to a purported memo trending on social media. A statement from the government spokesperson indicated that the Gambia government is committed to implementing the new pay and grading scale. “The government of the Gambia remains resolute in improving the welfare of all citizens and ever since coming into power that has been the priority of President Adama Barrow and government.” The statement urges the general public to ignore the memo.

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Gambia wins Africa games beach volleyball championship

The Gambia beach volleyball team of Sainey Jawo and Mbye Babou Jarra have defeated South Africa 2 - 0 in the finals of the 2022 Commonwealth beach volleyball games qualifiers in Ghana.The Africa Games champion first trashed South Africa 21-08 in the first set before recording a 21-18 win in the second set to scoop the honour and qualified for the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. This triumph over South Africa means revenge for The Gambia as they lost to South Africa in the group stages. South Africa might miss the goal medal, but they will also be in Birmingham alongside the Gambia as representatives of the Commonwealth nations from the African continent.

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Steve Nets As Gambia Beat Chad In 2023 AFCON Preliminary

Babucarr Steve Trawallly silenced his critics as he scored the much-needed goal that helped The Gambia to a 1 - 0 win over Chad in the first leg of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations preliminary qualifiers. The tricky winger fall out with the Gambia's coach Tom Saintfeit during the AFCON in Cameroon and abandoned the camp, but was given a chance and he proved why he should have been used by the coach with a late goal.The Gambia was the better side by far, but all they needed was a solitary lone goal at the Ahamadou Ahidjo stadium in Cameroon.The Gambia now hold a pole position ahead of the second game which will take place in Morocco on the 29th of March 2022. The overall winner of the double legged tie will be pitted in the group stage of the 2023 AFCON qualifiers.

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V.P Touray address World Water Forum

The Vice President Dr. Isatou Touray addressed the 9th World Water Forum in Dakar, Senegal. The Forum which is the first of its first kind in the African continent will last from 21 to 26 March 2022. The theme of the forum “water security for peace and Development” brought together world leaders and experts to pave a way for a world free from water shortage and insecurity. VP Touray said President Adama Barrow’s government has plans in place to ensure access to quality water and sanitation for all and noted that water is a human rights issue and his excellency is committed to providing all communities with water which is essential for everyone.

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Twelve suspects arraigned for obstructing Narcotic officers

The Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG) said 12 persons have been arraigned at the Basse Magistrates’ Court. They were charged with obstructing Narcotic officers in the execution of their duties.A statement from the DLEAG indicated that the men are standing trial for their conduct that led to the wilful damage of a vehicle and injured a suspect who was in custody. Eleven (11) of the accused persons were remanded in custody. One of the accused age could not be determined and as such, the court ordered for an age determination test to be conducted. This will determine whether he should be tried as an adult or an Alleged Child Offender.The suspects will also be charged with joint possession of prohibited drugs after weighing and analysis of the suspected cannabis found on them.   

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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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