The Heads of the African Union Election Observation Mission, His Excellency Issifu Baba Brafmah Kamara, head of the ECOWAS Election Observation Mission, H.E. Goodluck Jonathan, head of the West African Elders Forum and Former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and H.E. Filipe Jacinto Nyusi, head of observation Mission and Former President of the Republic of Mozambique have issued a joint statement on
the Post-Election Situation in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau. This came after reports of a coup by the country's armed forces.
Below is the full statement.
“We, the Heads of the African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM), the ECOWAS Election Observation Mission (EOM), and the West African Elders Forum note the orderly and peaceful conclusion of the voting process for the presidential and legislative elections held on 23 November 2025 in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau.
We commend the people of Guinea-Bissau for their strong civic engagement, as well as the professionalism demonstrated by polling staff, security personnel, presidential candidates, and party agents throughout the voting process.
Despite these encouraging developments, we express deep concern with the announcement of a coup d'etat by the armed forces, while the nation was waiting for the announcement of the results. It's regrettable that this announcement came at a time when the missions had just concluded meeting with the two leading presidential candidates, who assured us of their willingness to accept the will of the people.
We deplore this blatant attempt to disrupt the democratic process and the gains that have been achieved thus far. We request that the African Union and ECOWAS take the necessary steps to restore constitutional order.
We express concern about the arrests of top officials, including those who are in charge of the electoral process. In this regard, we urge the armed forces to immediately release the detained officials to allow the country's electoral process to proceed to its conclusion.
We call on the people of Guinea-Bissau to remain calm, and we reaffirm our commitment to supporting the Country on its democratic path. In this respect, we underscore the importance of preserving peace, stability, and the well-being of the Bissau-Guinean people during this sensitive period.”
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His Excellency President Adama Barrow made a momentous announcement during the prestigious annual Presidential Media Dinner held at the State House. In his address, he revealed that his administration has officially allocated land for the establishment of a permanent headquarters for the Gambia Press Union (GPU). This landmark decision is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time a government has taken such a step since the nation gained independence, signifying a substantial commitment to fostering a robust and independent media landscape.This initiative not only represents a significant leap forward for media development in The Gambia but also underscores the administration's dedication to promoting press freedom, a fundamental pillar of democracy. By providing a physical space for the GPU, the government aims to enhance the operational capabilities of journalists and media professionals, thereby empowering them to better serve the public interest.The annual Presidential Media Dinner serves as a vital platform for reinforcing the relationship between the government and the media fraternity. It allows for candid discussions and exchanges of ideas, illustrating the President's unwavering commitment to uphold the values of a strong and independent media. This gesture strengthens the foundation for collaborative efforts that can lead to more informed and engaged citizens who are better equipped to participate in democratic processes.
President Adama Barrow has reiterated his government's commitment to a free media environment, where journalists can do their job without fear, at the annual Presidential Media Dinner held at State House.The event, attended by media chiefs and journalists from across print, broadcast, and online media, provided a platform for the President and the press to interact and discuss pertinent issues affecting the media and the role it plays in building the nation.In her remarks, Director of Press and Public Relations, Amie Bojang Sissoho, emphasised that both the government and the press want the country to develop, but have different priorities and approaches, something she said should not make them enemies.Representing the Gambia Press Union, Board Member Alieu Ceesay expressed appreciation for the initiative, stating that it would solidify the good relationship between the government and the Union.Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, said the presidential media dinner shows the President's commitment to resetting and refining his relationship with the Media.President Barrow urged media workers to play more positive and vibrant roles in changing the Media narrative of the Gambia, saying that bulletins of most international agencies are dominated by wars and conflicts, but in the Gambia, media reports are mostly political stories and commentaries because of the democracy, peace, and security in the country.He emphasised that the way differences are moderated could enhance diplomatic and networking efforts, attract investment, and stimulate economic growth.The event was the second edition of the annual presidential media dinner, a tradition started by President Barrow last year.
In a bid to strengthen bilateral relations and explore areas of cooperation, Dr Nazim Samadov, the Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to The Gambia, paid a courtesy visit to the Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS) on Thursday afternoon.The visit, which reflects the growing diplomatic engagement between the two countries, aimed to familiarise the Ambassador with the operations of GRTS as the national broadcaster and strengthen ties with key public institutions.Dr Samadov and his delegation were received by Abdoulaye Sey, the Director General of GRTS, who expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as a "positive step towards building stronger relations."The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on media development, public broadcasting, and avenues for cooperation between Azerbaijan and The Gambia.Following the meeting, the Ambassador and his host toured GRTS facilities, including the studios, library, master control room, and other sections, where technicians explained the broadcasting process, production, transmission, and programming.The courtesy visit ended with a mutual expression of goodwill and a shared desire to deepen collaboration between the two countries, particularly through media, culture, and tourism engagement.
In a significant event at the State House in Banjul, President Adama Barrow conducted a ceremonial swearing-in of several pivotal members of his administration. Among those appointed were Hon. Mod K. Ceesay, who takes on the crucial role of Minister for Trade, Regional Integration, Industry, and Employment, a position that underscores the government's commitment to bolstering economic growth and job creation in The Gambia. Before his new appointment, Minister ,Ceesay was the first holder of the portfolio of Chief of Staff in 2021, and later in 2024, the position of Chief of Staff was elevated to the rank of a Minister at the Presidency. Honourable Ceesay has served in various ministries as Permanent Secretary, including the Ministry of Trade. (State House)Also sworn in was Alieu Loum, who has been named Chief of Staff, tasked with guiding the President's agenda and ensuring the smooth operation of the administration. Mr Alieu Loum until this appointment,t was the Deputy Chief of Staff at the Office of the President. Mr Loum held several senior portfolios, from Director of Delivery under the Department of Strategic Policy and Delivery (DSPD) to Permanent Secretary responsible for delivery at the Ministry of Public Service. (State House)Additionally, Momodou K. Dibba has been appointed as Deputy Chief of Staff, a role that will support Loum in managing the administration’s priorities and initiatives.Mr Momodou K. Dibba was the Executive Director of the National Social Protection Agency, before this promotion. Mr Dibba, a professional economist, served in several portfolios, including Director at DSPD. (State House)During the ceremony, each official took the Oaths of Allegiance, Office, and Secrecy, solemnly committing themselves to uphold their duties with unwavering dedication and integrity. This appointment marks a pivotal moment as the new officials prepare to tackle the challenges facing The Gambia while working towards the nation’s prosperity and stability.
The Government of The Gambia and the World Bank have officially launched the Gambia Infrastructure Project, a 52.6 million US dollar flagship initiative aimed at strengthening climate-resilient infrastructure, improving service delivery, and enhancing institutional capacity across key sectors to support sustainable socio-economic development.The six-year project, which is expected to run until June 2031, focuses on upgrading road corridors, boosting electricity transmission and distribution reliability, and digital public service systems, offering solutions to strengthen institutional capacity for infrastructure planning, among others.Speaking at the launch, Baboucarr Boye, the Gambia's Minister for Public Service, said the project is firmly aligned with the Recovery Focused National Development Plan and reflects the government's unwavering commitment to inclusive growth, climate resilience, and effective service delivery."The project comes at a critical juncture in our development journey. As our economy continues to expand, driven by construction, agricultural, services, and infrastructure investment, the demand for reliable transport networks and stable energy systems has never been greater," Boye said.Nani Juwara, The Gambia's Petroleum, Energy and Mines Minister, highlighted the expected impact of the project on the country's energy sector, saying the project will make significant contributions in addressing persistent challenges in electricity transmission and distribution while expanding access to reliable power, particularly for communities, at the last mile connection.The project will support the extension and densification of the electricity network in 80 rural communities, involving the construction of approximately 142 km of medium voltage lines, 350 km of low voltage lines, and 92 medium voltage to low voltage substations alongside the provision of prepaid meters for beneficiary communities.Franklin Mutahakana, the World Bank's Resident Representative in the Gambia, urged the implementing team to engage beneficiaries and obtain feedback, especially from the vulnerable, as he affirmed the World Bank's commitment to the implementation."Allow me to reiterate the World Bank Group's commitment to supporting and guiding the implementation of this project. Successful implementation is our shared joy. We also have to remember that a failed implementation will be our shared failure, and none of us likes failure. So let's strive to work together and generate the success that we've been looking for. It's the Bank's desire to register positive and effective implementation" Franklin said.In his launching statement, Ebrima Sillah, the Minister for Transport, Works and Infrastructure, said the pillars of the project, which include the upgrading of critical roads, the expansion of access to electricity, and the strengthening of key institutions, “form the backbone of any serious national development agenda.”Sillah also said he can “confidently confirm” that those investments are “fully aligned with the National Development Plan and enjoy the government's full backing with the highest level of support from His Excellency the President of the Republic Adama Barrow.""We owe it to the Gambian people to manage these resources prudently, to uphold transparency and accountability, and to deliver maximal value for every dalasi invested,” he stated.The Gambia has witnessed a massive transformation in the expansion of road networks and electricity, and stakeholders are hopeful that this project will help to further ameliorate remaining challenges in critical areas.
The Chairman of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. Dr Omar Alieu Touray, received several high-level diplomatic delegations on Tuesday, 16 December 2025, at his office in Abuja, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation and foster better relations with member states and partners in the Community.During these meetings, President Touray officially received the letters of credence from Ambassador Olawale Emmanuel Awe as the new Permanent Representative of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to ECOWAS. The President also granted an audience to H.E. Mohamed Alkhairy Algedail Arbab, Acting Commissioner of Affairs of the Republic of Sudan, as well as H.E. Ambassador Musa Sani Nuhu, Former Permanent Representative of Nigeria to ECOWAS, who is completing his tenure with the Community.In recognition of his valuable contributions to the work of ECOWAS and his promotion of regional integration, Ambassador Musa Sani Nuhu was presented with a distinction by the Chairman of the Commission, emphasising the Community's gratitude for his dedication.Dr Omar Alieu Touray (right) presents an award to Ambassador Musa Sani Nuhu. Musa is currently Nigeria’s appointed representative to ECOWAS Commission, his role is to facilitate collaboration between the ECOWAS Commission and Government Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), as well as private organisations in Nigeria. The meetings reflect ECOWAS' commitment to strengthening cooperation and collaboration with its member states and partners, with a view to promoting regional integration and development. The Commission looks forward to continuing its work with Ambassador Awe and other partners to advance the objectives of the Community.The visit by the high-level delegations is part of the ongoing efforts by ECOWAS to strengthen its relationships with member states and partners, and to promote regional cooperation and development.
West African leaders gathered at the 68th ordinary session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government summit in Abuja, Nigeria, have pledged to tackle the growing challenges of insecurity, military coups, and economic instability in the sub-region. The summit, attended by President Adama Barrow of The Gambia, focused on finding solutions to the complex security situation in West Africa.The leaders condemned the recent military coup in Guinea-Bissau and the attempted coup in Benin, vowing to take action against unconstitutional changes in government. The Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, President Julius Mada Bio of Sierra Leone, emphasised the need for urgent action to address the acute and complex challenges facing the region."We are facing serious threats to democracy, peace, and stability in our region," President Bio said. "We must renew ECOWAS' vision with courage, determination, and unity to foster integration amongst our 400 million population."The summit also saw the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Alieu Omar Touray, commend leaders for their swift response to the attempted coup in Benin. Dr Touray announced plans to integrate the private sector through the establishment of the ECOWAS Business Council, chaired by Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote, to promote investment and development in West Africa.The Vice President of Nigeria, H.E. Kassim Shettima Mustafa, renewed Nigeria's commitment to regional security, peace, and stability, warning against external threats posed by violent extremist groups and urging closer collaboration to respond to these challenges.The summit concluded with a joint declaration rejecting the coup in Guinea-Bissau and calling for a return to democratic civilian rule. ECOWAS leaders also passed on the leadership of the ECOWAS Commission to Senegal for the next four years after the conclusion of the current President's term.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reiterated its unwavering dedication to upholding democracy, constitutional order, and regional stability in West Africa. This commitment was emphasised at the 68th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, held at the State House in Abuja.At a press conference held to mark the conclusion of the summit, Dr Omar Alieu Touray, Chairman of the ECOWAS Commission, outlined the key outcomes of the meeting. The leaders of the 15-member bloc reaffirmed their zero-tolerance stance on unconstitutional changes in government, condemning any attempts to seize power through force.The Gambian leader (left in a pink kaftan) was among the leaders who attended the 68th Ordinary Session in Nigeria. The summit also saw ECOWAS leaders congratulate member states on the successful conduct of recent elections and commend those preparing for polls next year. However, concerns were raised over the situation in The Gambia, particularly regarding statements made by the country's former president in exile. The Authority warned that such actions could undermine national peace and cohesion, emphasising that no one is above accountability for alleged human rights violations.In a separate development, the Authority condemned the attempted coup in Benin and commended the country's security forces for their swift response, supported by ECOWAS regional mechanisms. The leaders tasked the Commission with proposing measures to further strengthen the ECOWAS Reserve Force.The summit demonstrated ECOWAS's commitment to promoting democracy, peace, and stability in the region. As the bloc continues to navigate the complex security landscape, its leaders remain resolute in their determination to uphold the principles of constitutional order and the rule of law.
President Adama Barrow has arrived in Abuja, Nigeria, to attend the 68th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government Summit. The summit will focus on pressing regional issues, particularly the recent military coup in Guinea-Bissau and the attempted coup in Benin.Upon his arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, President Barrow was greeted by Gambian High Commissioner Mohamadou Musa Njie, Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment Dr. Salihu Aminu Usman, and other officials. A ceremonial guard mounted by Nigerian Armed Forces personnel paid tribute to the President, who also inspected the guard of honour outside the Presidential VIP lounge.Nigerian Armed Forces personnel paid tribute to President Barrow upon arrival .Members of the Gambian community in Nigeria were on hand to welcome The Gambian Leader, who will join other West African leaders on Sunday for the summit at the State House in Abuja. The meeting aims to address the regional security challenges posed by the coup in Guinea-Bissau and discuss strategies for maintaining stability and democracy in West Africa.Recent events in Guinea-Bissau have sparked concerns, with ECOWAS suspending the country's coup-installed government from decision-making activities within the regional body until constitutional order is restored. The situation in Benin, where loyalist soldiers foiled an attempted coup, will also be high on the agenda.Nigerian Armed Forces ceremonial guard personnel who mounted a guard of honour for the Gambian leader.This summit presents an opportunity for regional leaders to strengthen cooperation and find solutions to the growing security challenges in West Africa.
The Department of Cooperative Development (DoCD) under the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Food Security, in collaboration with NACCUG and its Cooperative Credit Union, has taken a significant step towards strengthening the cooperative movement in The Gambia. A validation workshop for the Cooperative Societies Act was recently held, bringing together officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, representatives from NGOs, private sector stakeholders, and directors from various cooperative unions.The Cooperative Societies Act aims to establish a framework that enables cooperatives to operate efficiently, safeguard the interests of members, and foster transparency. The validation workshop is a crucial step in the development of the Act, ensuring that all concerns are addressed and the document is refined into a responsive national instrument.Officials emphasised that the validation forum marks a pivotal moment in the revival of the cooperative movement in The Gambia, signalling a new era of good governance and accountability. The event brought together key stakeholders to refine the draft document and ensure its effective implementation.Members urged participants to take ownership of the Act and contribute to its refinement, emphasising that Gambians must assume responsibility for its implementation. The validation workshop is a significant step towards promoting a robust and sustainable cooperative sector in The Gambia.
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