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PRESIDENT BARROW MEETS IMF DELEGATION, BACKS YOUTH FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT

President Adama Barrow met with a high-level delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), led by Deputy Managing Director Bo Li. The delegation was accompanied to the State House by Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Seedy Keita and Central Bank Governor Buah Saidy.In a separate engagement, President Barrow also received members of the organising committee for the President's sponsored Ramadan tournament.After their meeting, Bo Li spoke to reporters, stating that both sides discussed ways to deepen the existing cooperation and partnership between the IMF and The Gambia.Additionally, during a meeting with the organising committee for the President Barrow Ramadan Night Football Tournament, currently taking place at the Serekunda West Mini Stadium and the Brikama Box Bar Mini Stadium, the President expressed his support for the event, which features 40 teams competing for a coveted trophy.Minister of Youth and Sports Bakary Badjie stated that the youths met with the President to express their gratitude for his sponsorship and to invite him to the final match scheduled for this weekend.NPP National Youth President Momodou Sabally described the tournament as groundbreaking, noting it has provided a platform for young people to compete in a healthy environment. He praised the sports committee for organising what he referred to as a peaceful and highly competitive tournament.Sabally also revealed plans to expand the tournament to cover all regions of the country, drawing on the lessons learned from the ongoing tournament, which has attracted record attendance and excitement from young people.The organisers took this opportunity to invite the public to attend the final match this Sunday at the Serekunda West Mini Stadium, where the President is expected to be present.

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GAMBIA REVENUE AUTHORITY LAUDED FOR CONSISTENT PERFORMANCE 

During the first Economic Council meeting, chaired by President Adama Barrow earlier this week, the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) received praise for its consistent performance over the years in mobilising revenue to drive growth and development.The GRA is essential to the government's operations, tasked by law with mobilising and administering tax revenue. This responsibility is significant and complex, and the GRA takes it very seriously.Under the leadership of Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe, the Authority has consistently met and even surpassed its annual revenue collection targets. This year is no different, with positive prospects already evident.The GRA's progress and performance stem from a strong commitment to reform. Commissioner Darboe has initiated various reforms aimed at maximising revenue, eliminating leakages, and enhancing efficiency. Notable initiatives include the introduction of a digital tax stamp and a fuel marking system to increase revenue.The Authority has also launched a single-window platform at all ports of entry and exit to track the transfer and transit of goods within The Gambia. All activities are monitored from the GRA headquarters, allowing officials to trace all movements and prevent the diversion of trucks and fuel tankers.This system is backed by dedicated infrastructure installed at the Banjul Ports, facilitating quick turnover and enabling businesses to clear goods within 24 hours. GRA staff can scan containers to determine their contents within minutes and digitally weigh trucks to assess volumes. Additionally, containers unloaded from ships can be electronically registered.With these systems in place, Mr Darboe believes innovation and digitalisation are key to the GRA's future. The Authority is already planning to introduce a centralised platform allowing taxpayers to pay all taxes online from the comfort of their homes or offices, eliminating the need to visit GRA offices in person.These improvements have reduced bureaucracy, enabling agents and businesses to clear containers from Banjul Port with ease and transparency. Rafael Mendy, the GRA's seaport manager, emphasises that these developments highlight the Authority's commitment to service, transparency, and accountability.Another ambitious initiative, the Rental Income Tax, is already making an impact by transforming the collection and management of rent tax in The Gambia. This initiative covers properties within the Kanifing Municipality and Brikama Area Council and has seen revenue surge from D92 million at its launch in October last year to D139 million this month.All these advancements aim to maximise revenue collection, enhance efficiency, and promote transparency. The GRA's vision as a public institution is to empower taxpayers to take greater responsibility in assessing their tax obligations.Commissioner Darboe credits these successes to the political will and leadership of the President, who has been highly supportive of the Authority. He looks to the future with renewed confidence that the GRA will continue to sustainably mobilise revenue to drive socio-economic and infrastructural development in an atmosphere of peace and stability.The Economic Council meets monthly to discuss economic issues, review the performance of state institutions and agencies, and provide advice to the President and his government on economic matters.

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Gambia Boosts Healthcare with D27M Medical Donation from Al-Ataa Foundation

His Excellency Adama Barrow received medical supplies valued at over D27 million on Friday, donated by the Al-Ataa and Baitul Maal Foundation during a ceremony held at the State House.These medical items are intended to strengthen The Gambia's health sector and enhance the provision of quality healthcare services.Following a closed-door meeting with President Barrow, officials formally presented a donation of medical items worth approximately 400 thousand USD, equivalent to D27.2 million.During the presentation ceremony, Fatou Senghore Tambajang described the donation as a significant contribution towards improving healthcare services in The Gambia. She expressed her sincere gratitude to the Al-Ataa Foundation for their support, stating that this donation would greatly enhance the capacity of health facilities and improve healthcare service delivery across the country.Ahmed El Agamy, the Director of Baitul Maal Foundation, also expressed deep gratitude to the president for his support of the foundation. He noted that this container of medical items is the first donation made to The Gambia but assured that the foundation would continue to support the country's health sector. Mr El Agamy also commended their partner, Baitul Maal, for their assistance.Dr Mustapha Bittaye, the Chief Medical Director of the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, thanked the donors for their support, stating that the consignment of medical items meets the hospital's needs.Upon receiving the items, President Adama Barrow expressed his pleasure and honour in accepting the donation from the Al-Ataa Foundation, emphasising that it would greatly complement his government's efforts.The President took the opportunity to underscore his administration's commitment to health, describing it as a top priority. He pledged to do everything feasible to ensure quality services for Gambians. President Barrow also thanked the Health Minister and his staff for their exceptional work in the health sector and reassured the donors of his government's partnership and support at all times.

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President Barrow Hosts Crucial Cabinet Meeting, Shapes Nation's Future

His Excellency President Adama Barrow convened the weekly Cabinet Meeting at the State House in Banjul, joined by His Excellency Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow, the Chief of Staff to the President, esteemed Cabinet Ministers, and the Deputy Chief of Staff. This gathering of high-level officials marks a vital component of governance in The Gambia.During these meetings, critical national decisions are meticulously discussed and formulated, ensuring that the government remains responsive to the evolving needs of its people. Each session provides a platform for in-depth analysis and rigorous evaluation of existing government policies, allowing for adjustments and enhancements that align with the aspirations and demands of the Gambian populace. The outcomes of these meetings hold immense importance for citizens across the nation, whether they reside in bustling urban centres or serene rural landscapes. The decisions made have far-reaching implications, directly impacting essential services such as education and healthcare. For instance, initiatives to improve the quality of schools and healthcare facilities are often prioritised based on discussions held during these gatherings.Moreover, considerations related to the development of infrastructure, such as roads, public transportation, and utilities, are examined, as these elements significantly contribute to the quality of life for all Gambians. Additionally, the Cabinet addresses pressing concerns regarding security and safety, ensuring that measures are in place to protect citizens and foster a stable environment for growth.The economic opportunities available to the Gambian people are a key focus of these meetings. By translating the needs and aspirations of the populace into actionable initiatives, the Cabinet plays an essential role in driving economic development and creating pathways for job opportunities that enrich communities nationwide. Ultimately, the weekly Cabinet Meetings serve as a cornerstone for effective governance, translating the government’s vision into tangible improvements that benefit every citizen of The Gambia.

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President Barrow Launches Economic Council, Seeks Stability Advice

President Adama Barrow recently chaired the inaugural meeting of the Economic Council at the State House. This council comprises representatives from the central government, various agencies, and the private sector, and it is tasked with advising the President on economic matters, including management and performance.In attendance were the Vice President, the Ministers of Finance and Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Food Security, and Trade, Industry, Employment and Regional Integration. Additionally, attendees included the Commissioner General of the Gambia Revenue Authority, the Director General of The Gambia Import and Export Promotion Agency, the Governor of the Central Bank of The Gambia, and the head of The Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry.During the opening ceremony, President Barrow emphasised the council's significant role in the country's socio-economic development and encouraged its members to prioritise economic stability.The Vice President also praised the council for its advisory role on critical economic issues and urged all stakeholders to collaborate in enhancing socio-economic stability.

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Sinchu Sorie Community Pledges Support for President Barrow, Vows to Drive Development

President Adama Barrow on Tuesday received in audience the Alkalo and community members of Sinchu Sorie in the Kombo North District of the West Coast Region.  The community was at the State House to renew support for the President and his party, and reassure him of their readiness to complement his government's efforts The delegation comprised elders, women's representatives, youth representatives, and religious leaders representing a cross-section of the community.Speaking after they met with the President, the Alkalo of Sinchu, Sorie Alhaji Saidou Jallow, lauded the visit as “very successful,” as both sides agreed to work together to enhance the development of the village.The Alkalo also disclosed that the community took the opportunity to reassure the President of their “political support and loyalty” and engage with all stakeholders across Sinchu Sorie with a view to “mobilise popular support.”He thanked the President for granting them audience and commended him for the unprecedented developments across the country,  whilst expressing belief that the government will support the community in terms of development and social services.

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President Barrow Swears In New Public Service Commissioners, Emphasises Integrity and Reform

His Excellency Adama Barrow has presided over the swearing-in of three Commissioners of the Public Service Commission at a ceremony held at the State House.  Kebba Sarr, Edmond Snowby and Mariama Ndure-Njai took the three oaths of office,  allegiance and secrecy, and later signed the oath registry to officially confirm their new appointments at the ceremony conducted by the Secretary to the Cabinet Alieu Njai. Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Commissioner Kebba Sarr thanked the President for his trust and confidence in them, reassuring him that they will “live up to expectations.”  Mr Sarr also pledged to “uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.”The President H.E. Adama Barrow congratulated the three Commissioners on their appointments,  noting that the “Public Service Commission is one of the most important guardians of uprightness and good governance in the Republic,” adding that a “principled and capable civil service is the engine of national development.”The President advised  the Commissioners to take up the responsibility with the seriousness it deserves, adding that “expectations are high.”  President Barrow urged the PSC to “embrace transparency,  digitalisation and prioritise reform of the civil service to enhance efficiency,  discipline and professionalism.”

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ECOMIG SENEGALESE TROOPS BID FAREWELL: PRESIDENT BARROW PRAISES THEIR SERVICE

Eighty-seven personnel from Ecomig bid farewell after completing their tour of duty in Gambia under the ECOWAS Peacekeeping mandate. This contingent consists of Senegalese gendarmerie officers tasked with providing personal protection for the President and his immediate family.The President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Adama Barrow, extended his farewell to the 87 officers of the elite Group d'Intervention Gendarmerie Nationale. These men and women, who are responsible for the personal security of the President and his family, have concluded their year-long rotation and are now returning to their base in Senegal.During the farewell ceremony, President Barrow praised the Senegalese contingent for their discipline, hard work, and professionalism. He expressed gratitude to the Senegalese government for its support to The Gambia, emphasising that the two countries share similar socio-cultural values that transcend borders and colonial experiences.President Barrow personally thanked the Senegalese leader, Bashirou Jomaye Diakhar Faye, for his ongoing support. He concluded by expressing appreciation to the men and women for their service to The Gambia, highlighting that they have made a significant contribution to the country's democratic consolidation.Colonel Abdoulie Bah, Commander of the State Guard Battalion, spoke about the strong working relationship between the Gambian Forces and their Senegalese counterparts. He noted that this partnership has improved peace and security while fostering mutual understanding between the two forces.He also acknowledged the Senegalese officers for their dedication and professionalism, expressing his belief that the knowledge and experience they gained will advance their careers back home.Captain Amacodou Faye, Commander of the Gendarmerie Contingent, thanked President Barrow for the warm reception and the supportive working environment since their arrival in 2017. He also expressed gratitude to the State Guard Battalion for their collaboration, noting that the Gambian forces have been accommodating, professional, and dedicated. He reassured both the President and his counterparts that the Senegalese forces will continue to work closely with them to enhance peace and security in the country.At the end of the ceremony, all 87 officers of the Group d'Intervention Gendarmerie Nationale received certificates from the President in recognition of their service, dedication, and professionalism in The Gambia over the past year.The contingent is expected to depart the country in the coming days, to be replaced by another 78 men and women who will be deployed for another term of duty.

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GAMBIA'S GOVERNANCE RISES, 47.6 SCORE EARS TOP 10 SPOT IN AFRICA

The Gambia has achieved a significant milestone by being ranked among the top 10 best-governed countries in Africa, as highlighted in the 2026 World Economic Governance Index. The nation achieved an impressive governance score of 47.6, indicating notable progress in its governance framework. This advancement is particularly evident in key areas such as press freedom, where the country scored 65.4, indicating a growing environment for media independence and journalistic integrity. Additionally, political rights received a score of 54.8, reflecting enhanced democratic practices and increased citizen participation in governance.These positive developments are a testament to the efforts made by the government under the leadership of President Adama Barrow, whose administration has focused on reinforcing institutional frameworks, promoting transparency, and upholding the rule of law. The Gambia's commitment to improving governance and fostering a democratic society sets a positive example for other nations in the region, underscoring the potential for progress through dedicated leadership.

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Barrow Facilitates Power Connectivity for 63 Communities: Advancing Towards Universal Electricity Access in The Gambia

In a strategic move to enhance energy accessibility, President Adama Barrow inaugurated the connection of 63 additional communities in the Lower River Region to the National electricity grid, concluding a comprehensive nine-day tour of the provinces. The project was launched in Sutukung village, marking a significant step toward The Gambia's goal of achieving universal electricity access by the year’s end.The President's visit commenced with a stop at the Central mosque for congregational prayers, reinforcing personal and political ties to the community where he had previously participated in the mosque's inauguration. Following this, he engaged with the community's spiritual leader, a figure held in high esteem by thousands in the region and beyond.The evening's official launch of the electricity project is targeted to benefit over 60 communities, allowing them unprecedented access to the national grid. Local leaders emphasised the significance of this development, framing it as a critical advancement that presents new economic and social opportunities for residents. National Assembly Member for Jarra East, Hon. Haruna Barry, articulated the transformative potential of electricity in facilitating rural development, expressing confidence in President Barrow's commitment to follow through on his promises ahead of the upcoming elections.Governor Seedy Lamin Bah of the Lower River Region highlighted that of the 170 villages in Jarra East, 63 have now received electrical connectivity, with plans in place to reach the remaining villages by year-end. He noted that the National Water and Electricity Company (Nawec) has progressed with infrastructure installations, including pole erection, positioning the project on schedule.Dr Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, outlined The Gambia's role as one of three West African nations implementing this regional electricity initiative, commending the country for its exemplary leadership and dedication to maintaining a stable socio-political environment, essential for the successful execution of the project.Additional endorsements came from Demba Jallow, High Commissioner of the Organisation for the Development of the Gambia River Basin (OMVG), and representatives from the World Bank, who praised President Barrow’s leadership, which has been pivotal in the project’s progress. They reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with the government and Nawec to achieve comprehensive electricity access.Nawec’s Managing Director, Galo Saidy, underscored the critical role of electricity in everyday life and pledged continued efforts to extend access to underserved communities. He advised on the safe usage of electrical supplies, emphasising the importance of community stewardship over infrastructure to mitigate risks associated with electrical hazards, vandalism, and theft.In his address, President Barrow reiterated electricity’s strategic significance in driving economic growth and unlocking opportunities, asserting that The Gambia is on course to fulfil its objective of universal access by the close of 2023, well in advance of the African Union's 2030 target.He praised the collaborative regional framework supported by ECOWAS and the World Bank and committed to ongoing efforts to secure funding to connect remaining communities. The President urged all stakeholders to work collectively to protect this national asset from vandalism.The ceremonial switching on of the power in Jarra Sutukung signified the official project launch, followed by a celebratory lighting event in Barrow Kunda, where community members expressed their excitement and gratitude. This positive reaction foreshadows similar scenes in other communities along the Trans Gambia Highway, as excitement over electricity access permeates villages like Dongoroba and Buithe, marking a transformative moment in their developmental trajectories.

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NPP Rally Energises Gambissara: Residents Show Strong Support for Barrow

The National People's Party (NPP) held a huge political rally in Gambissara, a village in the Upper River Region, to reaffirm its support for President Adama Barrow ahead of the upcoming presidential election in December. The event, organised by local residents, was a lively celebration that also saw many supporters of the opposition party switch their allegiance to the NPP.President Barrow took a break from his official duties to attend the rally. As his motorcade arrived in Gambissara, he was greeted enthusiastically by thousands of supporters who were singing and chanting in celebration.The rally was intentionally scheduled alongside events that mark the start of a nationwide project to provide electricity access to all villages in the country. Many local NPP leaders spoke at the event, emphasising how important it is for Gambissara and the surrounding area to remain a stronghold for the NPP and to show unity to secure a victory in the upcoming elections. They recognised that while there are still some opposition supporters in the area, it’s crucial to mobilise everyone to strengthen their position before the elections.The local chairman of the NPP, Haji Kulay Camara, praised President Barrow for significantly improving access to electricity in the region. He pointed out that during the previous government, only four villages had electricity, but that number has now grown to 87.Maimuna Baldeh, the NPP's national women mobilizer, encouraged women to take on more political roles, highlighting that they make up the largest group of voters. She described President Barrow as the best candidate for women and urged them to vote in large numbers for him.The rally also marked a significant moment as several prominent opposition members switched to the NPP, particularly a well-known figure from the GDC, Abdoulie Taal. This shift could weaken the GDC, as many key members have now joined the ruling party.During the rally, President Barrow expressed gratitude to the organisers for their passion and support. He specifically mentioned Abubacarr Jawara of Gach Global for his dedication to the party, which the President believes is strengthening the NPP’s position in the country. He emphasised that the time for misleading politics is over and that the people of Jimara need to be aware of their role in shaping their future.In his address, President Barrow promised to repay their loyalty with more development projects throughout the country. He urged all eligible voters to register for the upcoming election, as it will determine the future of The Gambia for the next five years. He called for unity among his supporters to prepare for what he believes will be a significant victory for the NPP.President Barrow also spoke against voter apathy, advising voters to make informed choices as their votes are crucial in their democracy. As someone from Jimara himself, he asked his fellow villagers for their support for another term, pointing to his achievements as proof of his commitment to development."I have built 1,200 kilometres of roads in nine years, compared to just 300 kilometres in the previous 52 years," he shared with the rally, emphasising that his administration is focused on progress. Regarding electricity, he noted that the country is on track to achieve universal electricity access ahead of other countries in Africa.President Barrow called for everyone to come together in solidarity to prepare for the elections, expressing his confidence that the NPP will win by a large margin.

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BARROW'S ELECTRICITY REVOLUTION WINS HEARTS IN JAH KUNDA

For the first time in the country's history, access to a reliable electricity supply is becoming a reality for ordinary Gambians across the regions. Residents of Jah Kunda in Wuli West, Upper River Region, have expressed joy and gratitude for this life-changing development that has brought electricity to their village. They shared their excitement during the President's tour.Jah Kunda is a remote settlement located about 50 km from the provincial town of Basse. It is one of over 700 rural communities now connected to the national electricity grid, marking a significant milestone in the government’s effort to achieve universal electricity access by the end of the year.Bakary Kanteh, a lifelong resident of Jah Kunda, expressed how the arrival of electricity has transformed the village in unimaginable ways. “I was born and raised here," Bakary said. "Life without electricity was tough. With temperatures soaring to 40 degrees during this time of year, we had to spend 50 dalasis on an ice block. But now, all of this has changed because I can finally buy my own refrigerator.”This sentiment was echoed by Mbara Kanteh, another resident of Jah Kunda, as well as Mamadou Bah, who lives in the neighbouring village of Mana Koto.Lamin Makalo, a prominent opposition figure in Jah Kunda, also shared his thoughts. Despite his political disagreements with the president, he believes that rural electrification has brought significant benefits to the people. “It has transformed our lives, made life easier and better, and allowed us to enjoy modern conveniences.”While the residents celebrate this new development, they commend President Barrow for these and other initiatives that have improved the region. With elections approaching, many believe the President has an advantage over his opponents and are committed to voting for the NPP.

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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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