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The Gambia Eligible For US Government MCC Grant

The Gambia is among four African countries selected to forge new partnerships with the US government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation to develop new grant programs to boost economic development, among other things, according to a release from the US Embassy in Banjul,‘’During its annual “selection” meeting held last week, MCC’s Board — which is chaired by the U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken — selected The Gambia and Togo as eligible to develop compacts, MCC’s five-year grant program that focuses on large-scale infrastructure investments and address policy and institutional reforms.’’ The release stated. “Today’s announcement is symbolic of both the United States’ enduring commitment to Africa and MCC’s dedication to creating a stronger, more resilient global community,” said MCC’s Chief Executive Officer Alice Albright. “Our Board’s selection of these countries affirms each country’s aspiration or commitment to democratic principles as well as their intentions to make the investments and institutional changes necessary to build a more prosperous future for their communities. The MCC Board’s decision comes at a critical time, and we look forward to working together with each country to develop a program that will address the most pressing challenges facing their economies.”The Millennium Challenge Corporation is an independent U.S. government agency working to reduce global poverty through economic growth. Created in 2004, MCC provides time-limited grants and assistance to countries that meet rigorous standards for good governance, fighting corruption and respecting democratic rights.  

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President promises major fishing project in kombo South

President Adama Barrow has promised a huge fishing project in the coastal communities of kombo South District. The president disclosed at Tujereng village that his government has secured the funds to implement a fishing project that will transform the the fishing industry in the area. He stated that the project includes the development of the infrastructure and facilities at fish landing sites as well as training and provision of start up capital for beneficiaries. He however called on young Gambians to embrace the opportunity, saying the project is meant to end the domination of the sector by non-Gambians. He described the area as the converging point for irregular migration and called on the youths to desist from it and use the opportunities his creating for them. President re-echoed his for the communities to provide the needed land for government projects. He expressed Frustration over unnecessary claims over land that earmarked for projects that would benefit the country. The Minister of Lands Regional Government and Religious affairs Sheriff Abba Sanyang  warned against settling on government reserve lands. The Minister of Works Transport and Infrastructure Ebrima Sillah disclosed that government has allocated over three billion dalasi to his Ministry earmarked for road construction. Minister Sillah highlighted several key roads linking coastal communities which would be constructed from 2023 to 2024.

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President advises youths against illegal migration

President Adama Barrow continues the second leg of his meet the people tour on Friday with a large meeting at Mandinaring in the West Coast Region. Addressing the gathering, President Barrow advised youths to be more proactive in academic and skills development to acquire market relevant qualifications to boost their employment opportunities. He also advised against irregular migration, saying those who want to travel should explore regular and legal means.  Responding to the requests made by people in the area, the Gambian leader disclosed that government will construct major feeder roads, gardens and water projects in the area as well as extend access to electricity in Mandinaring, kubariko, kunjang jattaya, Latriaya and Bafuloto in 2023. He said that he will surprise Gambians with a great news in the coming weeks which will further cement his government's status as a development-oriented administration. The Minister of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs Sheriff Abba Sanyang urges Gambians to ensure the proper management and judious utilization of land. Minister Sanyang also called on traditional and religious leaders to follow the due process of inheritance to enable women to acquire land for agriculture and residential purposes. He advise people to acquire development permits to prevent the demolition of their properties after construction. The Minister of Works Transport and Infrastructure Ebrima Sillah highlighted various feeder roads tgat would be constructed in the area. This he said include Old Yundum, Tabokoto-Banjulinding Road, Lamin-Babilon road and Wellingara - Abuko road among others. The Minister of Tourism and culture called on the people to continue supporting the government. Several other Speakers Including the Paramount Chief Alh. Momodou Bojang, Alkalo Faa Ceesay of Mandinaring, Ramou Camara and Tida Suwaneh all described president Barrow as a champion of peace, democracy and good governance. They also thanked the president and his government for numerous developments projects in their respective communities. The speakers used the occasion to appeal for more feeder roads, electricity expansion, youth and women empowerment initiatives among other needs of their communities.

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President Adama Barrow promises Brikama a major hospital

President Adama Barrow has promised to construct more roads in the kombo central, kombo east and kombo south districts. He disclosed at a meeting in Brikama that his government is working on electricity projects in all the districts in kombo which will see most of the settlements in these areas electrified. He also disclosed that the World Bank would be funding major hospital projects in the West Coast and Upper River Regions. He said Brikama has been identified for the hospital. While a site has already been identified and confirmed in URR, President said a site for the construction of the Hospital in Brikama remains a big challenge. He called on the people of Brikam to quickly identify a suitable site for the construction of the hospital. President Barrow said his government is embarking on major development projects among them more than one thousand kilometre road network. He said  the majority of those roads would be constructed in the west coast region. President Barrow is continuing his meet the people with meetings in Mansinary on Friday and Tajereng on Saturday. President Barrow will also hold a rally in Tallinding before wrapping up the three week tour with a meeting in Banjul on Monday.

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President Barrow continues the meet the people tour

President Adama Barrow has promised to bring unprecedented development to the Foni region. The president was speaking at Sibanorr as he embark on the second leg of the meet the people tour. President Barrow told the gathering that his government would construct a 50km road network in Foni. Responding to requests for more electrification of the region President Barrow would extend elctricity to over 50 communities in Foni. The President spoke of the importance of skills development and therefore encouraged young people to engage in skills development inorder to self-employed. The President had a stop Toubakuta enroute to Foni where he visited Gikay Farms. Gikay Farms uses modern irrigation and horticultural techniques, working with graduates from Chamen Agricultural Centre.

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STRENGTHENING FACT-CHECKING

DUBAWA STARTS FACT-CHECKING FELLOWSHIP FOR WEST AFRICAN JOURNALISTSIn a bid to strengthen fact-checking, the Center for Journalism innovation and Development (CJID) through its fact-checking project DUBAWA inducted a fresh cohort of participants in its latent fact-checking training for Journalists in West Africa with trainees drawn from the The Gambia, Nigeria, Sierra Leon, Liberia and Ghana.The fellowship is part of Dubawa’s effort to curb the swift spread of misinformation and instill a broad focus on fact-checking in newsrooms.The Fact-Checking Fellowship is designed to equip journalists with requisite skills to combat misinformation in their various countries. The fellowship is structured to run for a duration of three months commencing with an intensive four-day training.Participants will be taken through requisite modules ranging from “understanding the information Disorder Ecosystem, Media information Literacy, Data presentation, fact-checking tools” and other relevant areas to expose fellows to the art of fact-checking and prepare them for the task ahead.The Kwame Karikari Fellowship is supported by the “National Endowment for Democracy (NED). The fellows will receive mentorship to continue creating content for their various mediums.This opportunity will immensely support journalists to amplify factual news and help mitigate the spread of misinformation and Disinformation.

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President Barrow wraps meetings in URR

The President H.E Adama Barrow wrapped up his Meet the People Tour in the Upper River Region with a meeting in Koli Bantang in Wuli West, which was also attended by constituents from Wuli East and Sandu.Issues surrounding agriculture,  road infrastructure,  electricity and horticulture dominated the agenda with speakers calling on government to increase investments to help local communities. The Lady councillor Fatoumata Saho led the chorus, commending the President for the numerous developments that have transformed the region. The youth representative Yorro Camara and Fansainey Barrow called for more government support to enhance agricultural production in the region,  arguing that the URR has the potential to produce enough to meet the needs of the people. As the prices of basic foodstuff increases beyond the reach of ordinary people,  Fansainey Barrow called for a radical shift to boost local production. Mbemba Jabbi also appealed to government to revise the tariff at the Samba Juma bridge as the toll is deemed too high for local drivers, and commuters who now use boats to cross the river.Chief Momodou Bah of Wuli West expressed gratitude to the President for what he called his commendable response to current coat of living crisis, which he attributed to external factors, urging Gambians to turn these challenges into opportunities.The Governor of the Upper River Region Samba Bah said his region has seen unprecedented developments under President Barrow, urging people to nurture the prevailing peace and stability. The Governor said several rural communities in the region have benefitted from the NAFAA cash transfer initiative designed to reduce poverty amongst farmers, whilst also revealing plans to construct a regional hospital in Giroba Kunda.The Minister of Works, Construction and Infrastructure Ebrima Sillah said the next five years will be momentous for the URR as studies have already been completed for the construction of half a dozen feeder roads across the region. He road projects, the Minister added will be funded from the national budget in line with the President's development agenda which priorities infrastructure as the engine of economic growth. The Minister of Regional Government and Lands Abba Sanyang expressed concern with the indiscriminate dumping of waste in public places, adding that government is exploring possibilities of re-introducing the monthly cleansing exercises across the country.  The Lands Minister also urged local communities to resolve land related disputes peacefully, as these conflicts could upend the existing peace and stability in the country.The President H.E Adama Barrow closed the meeting, commending the people of Wuli and Sandu for the impressive turnout.  The President harped on the importance of dialogue in fostering understanding amongst people,  describing the tour ad an important platform for exchange of views on national development. The President said his government has laid a robust foundation for socio-economic and infrastructural development,  adding that the next five years will usher in more opportunities for citizens. With the groundnut trade season beginning on December 1st, President Barrow announced that government has increased the price of a ton from D28000 to D3200, to help farmers. Speaking about the current economic situation,  President Barrow blamed the covid19 pandemic for disrupting supply chains across the world leading to a rise in prices of basic commodities,  but reassured that government has taken adequate steps to stabilise prices. Responding to appeals for more electricity access, President Barrow revealed that more than 200 villages will get electricity in URR.The President also addressed concerns raised by some speakers about the recent introduction of a toll at the Samba Juma bridge,  saying the fee is justified to enable government raise funds for the upkeep of the bridge. The construction of the bridge,  President Barrow added has made life easier for residents as it is safer, quicker and cheaper compared to the boats. He therefore advised communities to take ownership of the bridge and shun detractors who are bent on inciting people against the government, using social media as part of a wider political campaign. The President concluded by reassuring people that the funds generated will be used for development purposes to serve the welfare of Gambians.The tour continues in the CRR with planned meetings in Jarreng and Bansang.

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A THRIVING COASTAL ECONOMY

 Gambia’s Coastal zones particularly areas in the country’s coastal south are endowed with immense natural resources shaping multiple livelihood ventures for communities and people from all over the sub region. Ecological resources especially those in the country’s vast marine ecosystems are Critical to the population with a viable natural landscape emerging as a major focus for a sustainable blue economy agenda.Kartong is, one of the busiest coastal vicinities with a stable ecological attraction, a bustling eco tourism hub and fisheries centre perfectly placed to nurture the economic environment of the coast.Settled on a narrow strip of land, kartong’s riverside is a robust economic vicinity attracting an appealing variety of ventures., most men and women here are in the fisheries business.Fisherfolk trading different products are making ends meet from massive catches, and a chunk of the supplies are bought by  women merchants in the fish business.The coastal area offers a variety of opportunities for employment and, some young men make a profit from the knitting of fishnets while readymade nets are sold to fisherfolk.Women are in the fish-smoking business, they get their fish supplies from fish trawlers and process products into smoked fish and salted dried fish which form a major part of the national diet.Women constitute a high percentage of the fish business in kartong but sometimes sales are less lucrative and women are usually left with little or no alternatives when business hits rock bottom.Fish products processed here are supplied to various fish markets or sold to women who come here to buy stocks for domestic meals.The lack of facilities amid other challenges is massively hindering the output of their business ventures as these women solely rely on fisheries to make ends meet.Women like Isatou Madeline Jarjue are engrossed in the oyster business, she and other women are making a sustainable living from the venture.This could be a dangerous venture. The sharp oyster cells have caused injuries for many women and high tides have also caused countless disasters. But some visionary projects are providing support for Isatou and her colleagues.Apart from the fish business, Eco-tourism is rapidly growing on this side of the river, the coastal zone has an incredible natural landscape giving business opportunities for tourism enthusiasts.Dodou Saidy has an established restaurant, functioning on a narrow strip of land attracting local and international visitors.The kartong halain area is rapidly growing into people’s favorite eco tourism vicinity with sumptuous seafood delights served to customers.Dodou’s restaurant attracts tourists who often visit to enjoy a serene environment and enjoy local dishes and the owner relies on catches from the river for his business but high prices and little quantity of stocks often challenge his business.Sulayman Bojang is in the cruising business guiding tourists during boat rides.The industry is taking off as kartong turns into a major tourist hotspot.The coastal residents rely on natural resources for food and income and a preserved marine  ecology means more opportunities for the communiry which is keenly protecting its resources.

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President Barrow promises to construct more roads in the Upper river region

President Adama Barrow has promised to construct more roads and bring electricity to communities in Tumana, kantora, Basse and Jimara constituencies by 2025. This he said will cover over 95 percent of the communities in the area.  He made the promise at meetings in Chamoi in the Tumana District and his home town of Makamang Kunda in Jimara in response to numerous requests for more roads and electricity. President Barrow returned Gratitude to the people for renewing his mandate as president. He highlighted numerous developments made by his administration in education, health, agriculture and  infrastructure amongst other sectors of the economy. President Barrow added that over 45 communities in Tumana and over 30 communities in kantora  as well as dozens of others in Basse and Jimara constituencies will be electrified by 2025.  The Gambian Leader called on the people to embrace agriculture particularly rice production for  food and nutrition security. This he said is the best way to ensure food self sufficiency amid global economic crisis. President Barrow disclosed that his government had secured funds to invest in agricultural inputs and the purchase of groundnuts. He assured farmers that there will no credit buying of their nuts this season. In addition to the distribution of cereal and vegetable seeds his government he added will construct several gardens in some communities in the Upper River Region.The president also handed over a cheque for over 1.7  million dalasi to the women earmarked for 18 women groups in Tumana and Kantora as part of the government funded women enterprise fund meant to improve women's economic status. As he embarked on his nationwide tour the President held his first ever meeting in his home town of Makamang kunda where was received by a large crowd. At various meetings, community leaders, youth and women representatives took turns to return gratitude to the President and his government for what they described as unprecedented socio-economic and infrastructural development in their respective areas. This they say include the construction of roads, bridges, schools, health facilities and improved access to electricity in rural communities. They however appealed for more feeder roads, water projects, agricultural inputs, youth empowerment and improve security among other developments.The Minister of Fisheries and water Resources Musa Drammeh disclosed that government is set to construct over twenty-eight boreholes in Upper River Region by the end of 2023. The Minister of Agriculture Demba Sabally said government will soon start the construction of a dairy plant in Basse, and small ruminants markets and abattoirs in major settlements across the Upper River Region. The Minister of Lands and Regional Government Sheriff Abba Sanyang called on Gambians to nurture peace stability and Social cohesion. Minister Sanyang warned against the abuse of natural resources such as land and forests and called on loacal authorities to ensure their protection. The tour continues with meetings in wuli and other parts of Central River Region.

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President Barrow holds meeting at Makkah Farafenni.

President Adama Barrow says his government will construct the road at Makkah Farafenni. The President made these remarks at well attended rally at Makkah Farafenni as part of his countrywide tour. He also promised to bring electricity in the area and reiterated that the harsh economic situation is as a result of global crisis. President Barrow said he will continue to work for the Gambian people even after leaving office. He told farmers that the groundnut trade season this year would be a pleasant one as the buying price has been increased by four thousand dalasis. He therefore urged farmers to sell their nuts to the Gambia government.He reminded farmers that government had subsidised fertilisers to make it easy for farmers. The President disclosed that development partners such as the world Bank would provide funds for the purchase of fertiliser for the coming farming season. He therefore encouraged farmers to increase rice cultivation to enable the country to feed itself. President Barrow also said his government is taking over the just concluded Tekki fee project and said the aim is to create employment for young people.He decried the lack of interest in vocational training institutes as unfortunate. He sighted the President's International Award training centre in Kerewan where he said the centre is struggling to attract students.

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President Barrow holds meeting at Ndugu kebbeh

President Adama Barrow has said that the harsh economic conditions in the country were as a result of global economic crisis. The President made these remarks at meeting at Ndugu kebbeh as he embark on a nationwide tour. He said his government is working hard in trying to alleviate the situation. The President said his government has procured food items which were now being sold at a reduced price. He expressed gratitude to the people who recognised his government's efforts in developing the country. He told farmers that the buying price of groundnuts has been increased this year and urged farmers to sell their nuts to the Gambia. The president told the gathering that his visit was not a political campaign but to dialogue with the people.  

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THE RISE OF MODEST FASHION: MODEST MODELING AGENCY STAGES FIRST ISLAMIC FASHION SHOW The quest to Give modesty a viable space and representation on the runway gains strength in the

 Gambia as fashion houses move to embrace Islamic style trends.Part of the youth wave driving style trends, Modest fashion is tremendously evolving in the local fashion industry, with the first ever runway event showcasing latest hijabi designs featuring Islamic dress modes and modest fashion enthusiasts.Pioneered by young Fatima Muloshi and her modest modeling agency specialized in promoting hijabi fashion to diversify the runaway.Making it a cultural appeal and unifying platform, organisers aim to broaden Islam fashion to dispel stereotypes.The exquisite display of unique fashion pieces gives the modest niche show infinite power in the growing fashion market.The rare stage affair was graced by modest fashion influencers like Fatoumatta Ceesay, widely called Fatisha, uses online platforms to showcase her love for modest fashion.The runway is also creating a spotlight for modest apparel designers to exhibit their brands, giving them exposure to a new economic opportunity.For these young ladies, blending a little fashion in modest clothing is an opportunity to reclaim feminity. The trend is hugely altering stereotypical understanding of Muslim apparels and showpiece for all identities.Events like this underscore the new dawn in fashion industry embracing diversity and despite the hitches, the modeling agency is persistent in putting Islamic fashion on the spotlight

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Latest Updates

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THE GAMBIA AMBASSADOR PRESENTS CREDENTIALS TO GEORGIA, MOLDOVA TO BOOST BILATERAL TIES

His Excellency Mr Pa Musa Jobarteh, Ambassador of the Republic of The Gambia to the Kingdom of Belgium and the European Union, on Friday 22nd May 2026 presented his Letters of Credence to the President of Georgia, His Excellency Mr Mikheil Kavelashvili, as the Ambassador of the Republic of The Gambia to Georgia at a ceremony held in the Presidential Palace in Tbilisi.H.E. Ambassador Jobarteh conveyed fraternal greetings from His Excellency President Adama Barrow to the President, the Government, and the people of Georgia. He underscored his willingness to work with Georgia further to strengthen the existing bilateral ties between the two countries.During a closed-door meeting with the President, Ambassador Jobarteh highlighted several areas of cooperation, including Science and Technology, Agriculture, and Tourism. The two agreed to explore opportunities for economic cooperation between the two countries.In a similar development, His Excellency Mr Pa Musa Jobarteh, on Tuesday 26th May 2026 presented his Letters of Credence to the President of the Republic of Moldova, Her Excellency Ms Maia Sandu, as the Ambassador of the Republic of The Gambia to the Republic of Moldova at a ceremony held in the Presidential Palace in Chisinau.H.E. Ambassador Jobarteh conveyed fraternal greetings from His Excellency President Adama Barrow to the President, the Government, and the people of the Republic of Moldova. He underscored his willingness to work with the Republic of Moldova further to strengthen the existing bilateral ties between the two countries.H.E Ambassador Jobarteh and Her Excellency Maia Sandu discussed and noted potential areas of aligned interest and cooperation in which The Gambia and the Republic of Moldova can mutually benefit, including support for each other’s candidature at multilateral levels and the relevance of multilateralism for small states. They both echoed similar sentiments on international peace and security, and the need to expand trade, agriculture and investment learning exchanges.

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PRESIDENT BARROW JOINS BANJUL EID PRAYERS, CALLS FOR PEACE AHEAD OF ELECTION

Muslims in Banjul gathered at the King Fahd Mosque to observe the Feast of Eid al-Adha, locally known as Tobaski. President Adama Barrow, cabinet ministers, security chiefs, and senior government officials also participated in Eid prayers, led by Imam Ratib of Banjul, Alhaji Cherno Alieu Mass Kah. The president used his Eid message to call for peace, tolerance, and responsible citizenship.Imam Ratib of Banjul, Alhaji Cherno Alieu Mass Kah, led the two-rakah prayer.In his sermon after the prayer, the Imam Ratib urged Muslims to uphold peace, tolerance, and stability.He expressed concern over the rising use of drugs and illicit substances among youth and called for concerted efforts by government, parents, religious leaders, and society to address this menace, which threatens the well-being and future of young people.He also prayed for ongoing peace and stability in The Gambia and the wider world.In line with religious teachings, Imam Ratib supervised the slaughter of his sacrificial lamb, which opened the way for other Muslims across the city to do the same, as prescribed by Islamic faith.Outside the mosque, His Excellency Adama Barrow delivered his Eid address, congratulating Gambians and Muslims on this significant feast.He urged Muslims to be peaceful, tolerant, and law-abiding, adding that The Gambia is preparing for another presidential election, which the world will observe closely.On the international stage, President Barrow said he was closely monitoring developments in the Middle East. As chairman of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, he maintains contact with regional leaders to promote dialogue, restraint, and diplomacy for resolving differences.The President then left the King Fahd Mosque in Banjul for State House, where he also oversaw the slaughter of his two sacrificial lambs.The Imam of the State House mosque, Alhaji Mustafa Jallow, led the team that marked the conclusion of the President's Eid celebrations.

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GAMBIA SIGNS SPORTS & EDUCATION DEAL WITH TIBU AFRICA 

The Vice President, His Excellency Mohammed B.S. Jallow, has presided over the signing of a cooperation agreement between Tibu Africa from the Kingdom of Morocco and the Ministries of Basic and Secondary Education, Youth and Sports at the State House in Banjul. This agreement aims to support the national development agenda, especially in youth empowerment, education transformation, sports development, and international collaboration. The delegation from Tibu Africa accompanied by Bakary Y. Badjie the Minister of Youth and Sports, and Dr Habibatou Drammeh the Minister for Basic and Secondary Education, went to the Vice President's office to formally introduce their initiatives in The Gambia.Following an in-depth discussion with VP Jallow regarding the programme, the approach to implementation, and its potential impact on the country, the president of Tibu Africa Mohamed Amine Zariat, proceeded to sign agreements with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and the Ministry of Youth and Sports.These agreements, reaffirming the Government’s strong commitment to investing in Gambian youth development and empowerment, through strategic international partnerships, also form part of broader efforts to expand opportunities for Gambian youth in sport and education, as highlighted by Tibu Africa's President, Mohamed Amine Zariat.This partnership also aims to incorporate sports into national development policies. Youth and Sports Minister Bakary Y Badjie described the arrival of Tibu Africa in The Gambia as a “significant advantage.”The Gambia is poised to become the first English-speaking country to benefit from Tibu Africa's intervention and partnership programmes, marking a significant milestone in the organisation’s expansion within the African continent.Basic and Secondary Education Minister, Dr Habibatou Drammeh said the government, through her ministry, is “fully committed to the agreement with Tibu Africa.”This programme targets all “642 public primary schools across the country.” A similar agreement is expected to be signed between Tibu Africa and the Ministry of Interior.Tibu Africa is internationally recognised for its innovative use of sports as a catalyst for sustainable social transformation, youth empowerment, educational advancement, and community development. The organisation operates in more than fifty-two cities across the twelve regions of Morocco and has expanded its interventions to several African countries, including Tunisia, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and Madagascar.

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GOVERNMENT CONDEMNS MISINFORMATION ON POWER CUTS, URGES NATIONAL UNITY

The Government wishes to express deep concern over the increasing spread of misinformation, deliberate distortions, and politically motivated narratives circulating on social media and certain online platforms regarding issues of governance, corruption, and recent electricity supply challenges.While the government fully acknowledges the concerns of citizens affected by intermittent power shortages and other national challenges, it is both irresponsible and unfortunate that some individuals and groups have chosen to exploit these temporary challenges to spread falsehoods, undermine public confidence, and score cheap political points rather than contribute constructively to national dialogue and solutions.The Government remains firmly committed to transparency, accountability, and responsible governance.  Consequently, allegations of corruption must never be reduced to social media propaganda, political sensationalism, or coordinated misinformation campaigns aimed solely at scoring cheap political points and creating public distrust. Matters of governance and public accountability are serious national issues that must be addressed through credible institutions, evidence-based processes, and the rule of law and not through reckless speculation and politically charged disinformation.It is essential to remind the public that the current electricity supply constraints are being actively addressed through ongoing interventions, investments, and regional energy cooperation efforts, particularly within the framework of the OMVG. The Gambia Government, under the leadership of President Adama Barrow has achieved significant progress in expanding national electricity access, improving generation capacity, and modernising energy infrastructure over recent years. These achievements should not be ignored simply for political convenience.No responsible government desires inconvenience for its citizens, particularly during important social and religious periods. However, genuine leadership requires honesty, patience, and collective responsibility, especially during moments like these.For nearly the past year, the country has experienced one of the most stable and reliable electricity supply periods in recent national history, with many households and businesses enjoying significantly improved power availability and fewer interruptions. This progress was not accidental, but the result of deliberate government investments and reforms in the energy sector. Therefore, temporary technical challenges currently affecting electricity supply in parts of the country should be viewed within their proper context. While any disruption to electricity supply is regrettable and taken seriously by the Government, isolated operational and technical challenges cannot reasonably justify the level of outrage, alarmism, and politically charged narratives being amplified in some quarters.The Government is therefore urging political actors, media platforms, activists, and members of the public to exercise restraint, patriotism, and responsibility in their public commentary. Constructive criticism is welcome in every democratic society, but the deliberate politicisation of temporary national challenges for narrow partisan gain does not serve the interests of the country or its people.National development cannot thrive in an atmosphere poisoned by misinformation, constant negativity, and manufactured outrage. Progress requires unity, stability, responsible citizenship, and a shared commitment to national interest above political opportunism.The Government reassures the public that efforts are ongoing to stabilise the electricity supply, strengthen service delivery, and continue advancing the country’s development agenda. Citizens are encouraged to rely on official channels for accurate information and to reject the spread of false and misleading content designed to create unnecessary panic and division.

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PRESIDENT BARROW HOSTS TIBU AFRICA AS MOROCCO GROUP LAUNCHES FIRST ANGLOPHONE PROGRAM IN GAMBIA

The President, His Excellency Adama Barrow, on Tuesday received Mohamed Amine Zariat, President of Tibu Africa, at the State House. Tibu Africa is a Morocco-based sports organisation specialising in sports education, empowerment, and socio-economic inclusion of youth, women, and children across Africa. Mr Zariat launched the first Tibu in The Gambia, marking the first in Anglophone Africa.The President of Tibu Africa, Muhammed Amin Zariat, was accompanied to the State House by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie, and the Tibu country representative, Ebrima Manneh.Speaking to journalists after their audience with President Barrow, Mr Zariat disclosed that Tibu Africa was founded in 2011 to promote sports education and empower women and youths.Mr Zariat added that Tibu Africa plans to expand its activities in The Gambia, targeting schools across the country to give young people opportunities to pursue careers in sports education.The Tibu Africa President also praised the Gambia-Morocco friendship, which inspired this partnership, and expressed particular thanks to King Mohammed VI and President Barrow for their patronage.To further strengthen this partnership, Mr Zariat announced plans to establish a basketball court in The Gambia in December. He also extended an invitation to the President to attend the next Education Through Sport summit, to be held in Casablanca next year, where The Gambia will be the guest country.Finally, Mr Zariat expressed hope that The Gambia will qualify for the 2030 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Morocco.

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GRA DOUBLES REVENUE TO D25.3B IN 5 YEARS UNDER DARBOE

The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) has significantly improved its performance over the last five years, thanks to good management, strong leadership, and new ideas. Their revenue has increased from D12.7 billion in 2021 to an impressive D25.3 billion in 2025. This success has come from the efforts of Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe and his team, who transformed an authority that used to struggle to meet its goals.The 2026 GRA awards celebrate the biggest and most compliant taxpayers of the year. They also highlight the GRA as an institution that consistently exceeds expectations.Yankuba Darboe has been leading the GRA since 2014, six years after it was created by combining the central revenue department with the customs and excise departments. His leadership has brought about changes that have greatly improved how revenue is collected and taxed in The Gambia.With a dedicated team and support from a government focused on development, Mr Darboe started reforms that doubled and even tripled revenue in a short time. This earned him praise from the government and his colleagues.President H.E. Adama Barrow has been inspired by Darboe’s achievements and has attended every taxpayer award night to recognise and appreciate his leadership and contributions.Colleagues at the GRA also admire Darboe for his leadership skills, passion for success, and commitment to exceeding targets.Despite this success, Mr Darboe remains humble and sees these achievements as motivation to keep improving. He believes in always finding new opportunities and welcoming innovations, without creating more pressure on taxpayers. His main goal is to expand the tax base, rather than raise tax rates for the people.As they celebrate another successful year, the GRA leadership and team are confident in their ability to continue meeting and exceeding targets, supported by new technologies and systems. The future looks bright for them.

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