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President Barrow says Gambia will not be used as launch pad in the ongoing Cassamance conflict

Ebrima G Sankareh The Gambia Government SpokespersonBanjul, The GambiaIt has come to the awareness of The Gambia Government that Senegal launched a ‘Military Operation’ against MFDC separatists in its southern region of Cassamance on Sunday 13th March, 2022.Given its proximity to The Gambia, several communities and villages particularly in Foni Bondali, Foni Kansala and Foni Bintang Karanai Districts have been affected by sounds of heavy gunfire amid reports of shells landing in these Gambian border villages. The Gambia Government can confirm that as of last night, several Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and refugees from the border areas began arriving and are being registered in the villages of Foni Bintang, Foni Kansala and Foni Bintang Karanai.In the wake of this military operation and its attendant refugee situation, His Excellency, President Adama Barrow directed that the Vice President working with the relevant Ministries, Government Departments and Agencies (MDAs), urgently respond to the pressing needs of the IDPs and refugees. Equally, President Barrow has directed for the exercise of more vigilance, robust border patrols, and intensified security activities on The Gambian border for the safety of citizens as well as safeguarding the territorial integrity of the country against any potential foreign threat.President Barrow also wishes to reassure citizens, members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps that The Gambia will neither be used as a launching pad nor allow anyone to enter the country with arms and ammunition.The Gambia continues its peaceful advocacy for a resolution of the Cassamance Conflict and envisages lasting peace, security and stability in our region. Meanwhile, The Gambia Government strongly urges citizens to desist from spreading false news and recycling of old videos and audios of similar past events to create confusion and fear in the minds of innocent, peace loving citizens affected by this conflict.  

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Bakoteh wins Secondary School Athletics Championship

Bakoteh Upper and the Senior Secondary School has won Gambia Secondary Schools Sports Association’s National Inter-Schools Athletics Championship. This is Bakoteh’s first ever triumph in the Senior Secondary Schools Athletics Championship.  They scored 365point leading their closest rivals by 181 points. They received a trophy and a hundred thousand dalasi cash prize.Charles Jow in second place got Fifty thousand Dalasi and St Michael in 3rd received Twenty Five thousand Dalasi.  Essau Senior finished 4th, Brikama Upper and Senior Secondary 5th while Muslim High finished 6th position. This year’s athletic championship was marred by controversy when over a dozen schools were expelled from the competition.  Among them was the defending champions Bottrop Senior secondary school, who were aiming for a sixth consecutive title.  

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NHRC condemns police action against civilian

The National Human Rights Commission, The GambiaPRESS RELEASENHRC/PR/ 03112022/001 (001)Unacceptable Police Brutality Against a CivilianThe attention of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has been drawn to a video on social media in which a group of Police Intervention Unit Officers in full riot gears were seen kicking and beating an unarmed, non-threatening civilian with batons all over his body. While the Commission is investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident which it believes occurred yesterday 10th March 2022, it wishes to state in no uncertain terms that no person, in particular law enforcement officers, has the right to torture, beat, injure or harm another regardless of the provocation. The Commission has also contacted the Office of the Inspector General of Police to raise its concerns. The actions of these Police Officers are condemnable, inhumane, degrading and, above all, a flagrant violation of human rights. A Police Officer is not only a guardian of the law but is also expected, as a duty bearer, to respect and protect the human rights of all people, including those who are even suspected of breaking the law. By the adoption in 2020 of the Guidelines on Policing Public Assemblies in The Gambia, the Gambia Police has placed upon itself the obligation to put in place mechanisms and standards for the peaceful management of assemblies and demonstrations. Having a group of officers acting contrary to the spirit of the Guidelines is both disheartening and disturbing. The Commission wishes to reiterate its unequivocal position against impunity and every form of human rights violation. Police brutality has no place in a democratic dispensation. Due process and rule of law are expected to be followed when a person breaks or is suspected of breaking the law. The Commission calls on the Inspector General of Police to immediately identify and bring to book the Police Officers who are in the video assaulting the civilian. They have violated the law and should therefore be punished accordingly. We wish to further remind all law enforcement officers that they have a duty to respect and protect human rights, and that they would be held accountable for any human rights violation committed whether under command or not. As we strengthen our democracy and good governance, we urge everyone to always be law abiding, uphold the rule of law and follow due process when aggrieved. Violence has the potential of disturbing the peace and security of the country and retarding its development. Emmanuel D. JoofChairpersonNational Human Rights Commission

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VP Touray speaks to GRTS

The Vice president Dr Isatou Touray has commended the government for promoting the advancement of girls and women's rights. She described the establishment of the ministry of women gender and social welfare as a symbol of hope that accelerates advocacy and promote issues surrounding the marginalised groups towards national development. Vp Touray made the remarks recently in an interview with GRTS, amid a week of celebrations marking international women's day. She noted the challenges in gender equality in the decision making positions in governance and political spaces. Dr Touray, said women are working on influencing the bill of rights to be included in the constitution of the Gambia and she expressed optimism that it would happen. She encourages women to vy for representation in local government and the national assembly elections in order to close the gender gap.

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PDOIS aspirants file for nomination in Banjul

The IEC Regional Office in Banjul has received nominations bids from seven aspiring candidates for the April 9th National Assembly elections. Three aspirants from PDOIS, three from UDP and one from PPP have successfully submitted nomination papers to the IEC IN Banjul on Thursday. They include Ousman Sillah of PDOIS for Banjul North who is seeking a second term in office. Baboucarr Mboge and Mansour Foon of PDOIS are vying for the parliamentary seats in Banjul Central and South respectively. Muhammed Ndow of the PPP is also contesting for the Banjul Central seat. Thursday's nominations process ended with the United Democratic Party (UDP). The party has chosen Momodou Cherno Jallow for Banjul Central, Momodou Lamin B. Bah for Banjul North and Yaya Kuyateh for Banjul South. Similar engagements are also taking place in all the other administrative regions.  

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Methodist clergy visit President Barrow

A delegation of high ranking Methodist clergy, led by the new Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Rev Bannie E.F Manga, was Thursday received at State House. The delegation included Rev Hannah Caroline Faal, Claudiana Cole amongst others. Speaking to reporters after their meeting with the President, Rev Bannie E.F Manga, says the Methodist church of The Gambia is committed to enhancing its existing partnership with government to promote education, health care, and agriculture. Rev Manga spoke of the Methodist Church's efforts in providing social services and teaching the gospel. Rev. Hannah Caroline Faal also expressed immense gratitude to the President for the honor and privilege. 

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IEC rejects Momodou Sabally's nomination

The Independent Electoral Commission officials at Brikama have rejected the nomination of Momodou sabally for the Busumbala constituency. This is the first time an aspiring candidate’s nomination is rejected on the spot in the run-up to the 2022 parliamentary elections. The IEC rejected Sabally’s nomination citing section 90 (1) (e) of Gambia’s 1997 Constitution.  It states that “A person found guilty of abuse of office, corruption, or any offense connected with public elections by a court or anyone found by a report of a commission of inquiry to be incompetent to hold public office because of having acquired assets unlawfully or defrauded the State would also be disqualified”It could be recalled that the Janneh Commission indicted Mr. Sabally for aiding and abetting the theft of D14, 686,500 in relation to Carnegie Mineral accounts.  

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V.P Touray speaks on voluntary repatriation of Gambian migrants

The Vice president Dr. Isatou Touray has admitted that voluntary repatriation of Gambian migrants was taking place in a more humanitarian context, since the coming of President Adama Barrow. She explained that young Gambians including women were massively migrating for greener pastures mainly due to economic reasons and fear of persecution due to an authoritarian regime. Dr. Isatou Touray was responding to questions raised by Spanish journalist Pilar Requena, TVE Spanish Public Television in an interview at her office. The Office of the Vice president is the chair for the national coordinating mechanism for migration which comprises relevant stakeholders, working with international development partners in facilitating safe returns of Gambian migrants and migration issues as well as policy formulation for government. The Vice president further explained strategies that are being implemented to assist returnees better integrate while citing stigma from society as a huge challenge. 

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Bottrop reacts to expulsion and asks for proofs

Bottrop senior secondary school has strongly rejected the decision of the Gambia Secondary School Sports Association (GSSSA) to ban them from this year’s National championship. GSSSA recently expelled Bottrop and over a dozen other schools for cheating in the regional championships. Mr. Martin Gomez, Principle of Bottrop and life President of GSSSA challenged the governing body to provide proof that his school used an ineligible athlete. The student being queried, Mr Gomez said was enrolled using his WAEC exam results of 2019 from Presentation of Mary Basic Cycle and was since a student of Bottrop. As time was running out, Mr. Gomez called on GSSSA to reinstate his school, failing which he said, the school would seek justice.  The fifth time champions also felt that the school was unfairly targeted due to its unprecedented success in the athletics championship. Mr. Fa Kebba Saine, sports master at Bottrop, accused the Secretary General of GSSSA of unfairly targeting Bottrop on a number of occasions. He cited examples in the secondary school football competitions when he claimed Bottrop was disqualified on two occasions for unjustifiable reasons.

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TIKA donates equipment to National Beekeepers Association

The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) Wednesday donated an assortment of beekeeping equipment to the National Beekeepers Association of the Gambia. The items were handed over to the Ministry of environment at the National Beekeepers Association’s office at the Brikama Nyambai Forest. The Minister of Environment Climate Change and National Resources Lamin B Dibba said the gesture is part of series of supports from Turkey.  The Turkish Ambassador to The Gambia H. E Tolga Bermek said the support is meant to improve the economic status of individuals amidst the impact of covid-19.  The TIKA Country Coordinator Mehmet Akif Eyigun said the initiative would build the capacity of beekeepers and beekeeping communities. Director of Forestry Muhammed Jaiteh spoke on the importance of the need to support honey production as well as protecting the environment. The EBA Project Manager Dr. Malanding Jaiteh said the gesture will complement their project objectives on ecosystem-based adaptation to climate change. Musa Gibba of the National Beekeepers Association thanked the donors for the support.

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Energy Ministry validates Feasibility Study Report on Waste to Energy Project in the Gambia

The Ministry of Petroleum and Energy Wednesday validated the Feasibility Study Report on Waste to Energy Project in the Gambia at a daylong forum in Kotu. The feasibility study is meant to reduce environmental pollution and its impacts on society. The Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Energy, Oulaye Camara spoke on the importance of the project noting that, energy is a catalyst to sustainable development. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing a clean energy supply across the country. Energy officials say the project would provide a safe and technologically advanced means of waste disposal that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

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NaNA implements training for Mothers Support group

A Three-day training for Mothers Support Group on Basic Nutrition and Screening is underway at FajiKunda Bajonkoto in the Kanifing Municipality. The training funded by UNICEF is being implemented by the National Nutrition Agency (NaNA) in partnership with the Health Directorate Western One of the Ministry of Health. The forum brought together twenty-three (23) participants from acrossFajiKunda Bajonkoto. NaNA Program Manager AlieuKujabie said the training is intended to build the capacity of participants on basic nutrition and active screening for early detection of malnutrition among infants. He said urban malnutrition is on the rise amongst children under-five. The Senior Program Officer, NaNA Musa Dahaba said mothers support Groups are important in raising awareness on exclusive breast and complementary feeding for infants. The Regional Nutrition Field Coordinator at NaNA BubaJatta noted that the initiative is meant to promote urban malnutrition using the baby-friendly initiative (BFCI). Fatou Njie a registered nurse at FajiKunda Hospital said the training would help to promote behavioral change towards the health of women and children.  The president of FajiKunda Bajonkoto mothers support group Jainaba Jarju lauded the initiative.

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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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