ECOWAS and UNOWAS mission hastily leaves Guinea-Bissau after President Embaló's threat to expel delegation amid tensions over electoral roadmap. Concerns rise over transparency in upcoming elections and ECOWAS's mediation role. Political tensions deepen as regional observers question ECOWAS's influence.

The Gambia Police Force is investigating officers captured in a video displaying "grossly unprofessional conduct," leading to the officers being ordered to report for further investigation by the Human Rights and Professional Standards Unit. The incident, involving aggressive behavior and insults towards an elderly man, went viral, prompting the GPF

The Government of The Gambia nominates legal expert Mr. Abubacarr M. Tambadou for the International Court of Justice, marking a historic first for the nation. His candidacy recognizes his work in international law, human rights, and prosecution of war crimes, enhancing The Gambia's global

The High Court in The Gambia admits Ousainou Bojang's Tecno Spark 8 phone into evidence in his trial for the murder of two police officers, ruling that the phone and its cover are separate items. Bojang denies the charges as the trial proceeds.

Efforts to reach a consensus on The Gambia's 2024 draft constitution between President Barrow and political rival Darboe have failed, highlighting a deep divide over key provisions. Mediation efforts by Dr. Chambas continue, but the deadlock raises concerns about prolonged political uncertainty.

The National Assembly in Senegal rejected Deputy Thierno Alassane Sall's proposal to repeal the controversial amnesty law due to budgetary non-compliance, sparking political tensions. Sall denounced the rejection as politically motivated and vowed to challenge the decision, raising uncertainty over accountability for past political offenses.

Moroccan King Mohammed VI has urged citizens to skip the traditional Eid al-Adha sheep sacrifice due to a livestock decline from prolonged drought, marking the first such appeal since 1996. The severe drought has led to a drop in livestock numbers and soaring meat prices, prompting the king to balance religious

Former Energy Minister Samuel Sarr remains in detention as his latest bail request was rejected due to lack of new developments and concerns over interference with the ongoing investigation. A ruling by the Court of Appeals on March 4 will decide his fate amidst charges of financial impropriety.

Yahya Jammeh, exiled from The Gambia for nearly eight years, maintains significant influence in Gambian politics, recently expelling rising political figure Bakary Badjie from his faction of APRC. Despite being ousted from power, Jammeh's control over political dynamics persists, utilizing

The PAI-Terra Ranka coalition and API-Cabas Garandi urge Guinea-Bissau workers to strike on February 28 in protest against dictatorship and torture. Opposition groups, including APU-PDGB, reject ECOWAS mediation, citing bias and exclusion of key parties from electoral consultations

Former Senegalese President Macky Sall advocates for a shift from traditional aid to economic partnerships with Africa during his address at the Atlantic Council, emphasizing the continent's readiness for investment and industrial collaboration, highlighting its abundant natural resources and urging mutually beneficial ventures with the U.S.

White House downplays concerns over bruise on former President Donald Trump's hand, attributing it to frequent handshaking. Trump's press secretary cites work ethic as cause, despite past instances of bruising. Questions on Trump's health persist as scrutiny increases during 2024 election cycle.

Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye have had the insurrection case against them officially dismissed by a judge in Dakar, Senegal, citing the recently enacted amnesty law to facilitate political reconciliation and resolution amidst the country's political turmoil

Senegal and the MFDC signed a peace agreement in Bissau, addressing arms surrender and refugee return in Casamance. Challenges persist, including the fate of ex-combatants and Salif Sadio's separatist demands, requiring broader consensus for lasting peace.

MSNBC anchor Rachel Maddow criticizes network's decision to cancel The ReidOut with host Joy Reid, calling it a "bad mistake" and expressing concerns over diversity, job security, and staff treatment. Reid responds with emotions. Network's leadership changes detailed. Maddow emphasizes fairness and respect for employees

Russia is expanding diplomatic and economic ties with Senegal, focusing on trade, investment, and development projects under President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. The collaboration spans various sectors, including energy, infrastructure, education, and technology, indicating a shift towards diversified partnerships as Senegal embraces a new digital

Gambian police summon former PR officer Binta Njie for questioning over social media post criticizing President Barrow and NPP member Bahoum's disparaging remarks towards Kiang residents. Njie defended her community's dignity, refused to delete tweet, and faces administrative action.

Former Gambian President Yahya Jammeh expels Bakary K. Badjie from his faction of the APRC after Badjie announced his presidential ambition. Jammeh denies communication on political matters, defends party members, and criticizes current governance, urging unity and national development.

A 28-year-old Gambian asylum seeker was arrested in Schopfheim, Germany, after roaming the streets naked, disrupting traffic, and resisting police officers. Three officers sustained minor injuries during the arrest, with authorities attributing his behavior to a "mental state of emergency."

Guinea-Bissau's President Embaló confirms general elections on November 30 will proceed as planned, ruling out delays. ECOWAS delegation supports electoral process, stressing financial accountability for candidates. Embaló aims for re-election, asserts victory in first round; emphasizes tax compliance, debt settlement

Senegal's oil revenue distribution reveals 75% for investment recovery by oil companies, with the remaining 25% split among companies, national oil firm Petrosen, and the state. Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko plans to renegotiate contracts to ensure a fairer share for the national

Senegal and MFDC's political wing signed a peace agreement facilitated by Guinea-Bissau, establishing a ceasefire and rebel disarmament in Casamance. The deal aims to end four decades of conflict, with the Senegalese government emphasizing peace for development in the region.

Former Gambian President Yahya Jammeh is listed among the world's ten most 'wanted' ex-leaders for serious crimes, including human rights violations during his 22-year rule. Although no international warrant exists, a Special Tribunal for The Gambia is being created for his prosecution.

The European Union is increasing pressure on Rwanda for alleged support of the M23 armed group in the DRC, with plans for sanctions including asset freezes and travel bans. The EU's move follows Belgium's call for stringent measures, signaling a unified stance against Rwanda's involvement.

Senegalese authorities target Amadou Sall, son of former President Macky Sall, and businessman Racine Sy in the 125 billion CFA francs financial scandal probe, linking them to fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering involving 91 billion CFA francs

Police in The Gambia summoned diehard supporter Baboucarr Bahoum for questioning over social media remarks post-election, citing potential to incite division. Released on bail, Bahoum defended his statements, emphasizing commitment to President Barrow and NPP. Authorities stress responsible civic engagement for national

Guinea-Bissau's major political coalitions reaffirm President Umaro Sissoco Embaló's term ending on February 27, 2025, rejecting any extension as unconstitutional. Opposition demands respect for human rights, electoral reforms, and accuses the administration of corruption and economic mismanagement

The Gambia faces controversy over high customs duties on flour imports, with a Danish entrepreneur encountering difficulties. The Ministry of Trade refutes claims of an embargo, citing protection of local flour mills and a 47% duty increase since 2013.

Ousainou Bojang's murder trial in Gambia continues as he faces charges of fatally shooting two police officers, with his defense pushing for access to his smartphone and diary for evidence, citing issues with password and device condition.

Sudanese army regains El-Obeid from RSF, breaking a two-year siege and claiming a crucial victory. RSF signs political charter to establish parallel government, escalating tensions. Military advances in Khartoum and Darfur as humanitarian crisis persists. Diplomatic tensions rise as Kenya

The National Assembly in The Gambia is convening for its First Ordinary Session of the 2025 Legislative Year to debate the second reading of the Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia (Promulgation) Bill, 2024, a crucial step in the country's constitutional reform process addressing governance

Gambia's Minister for Works and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah, apologizes for mishandling the Deep Sea Port project in Sanyang, admitting faults in communication and transparency. Community pressure led to halting project activities and initiating proper consultations with local stakeholders for future steps.

The University of Bristol's SHINE project, funded by UKRI, aims to integrate well-being into energy system design in The Gambia and Ghana, collaborating with local stakeholders. The initiative focuses on equitable energy transitions and developing community-specific solutions for sustainable energy access.

The Gambia Bakers Union and the Ministry of Trade agreed to delay a planned bread price increase due to rising costs of flour and materials. Government interventions had kept bread prices stable at D10 per loaf, but with those measures expiring, bakers face challenges in maintaining affordability and quality.

Princess Anne of Great Britain and George W. Bush attended Gambia's Independence Day parade in 1990. Bush's subsequent advocacy led to the creation of PEPFAR, which has saved millions of lives in Africa, but the program faces uncertainty in 2025.

The Gambia intensifies efforts to attract oil and gas investors after FAR Ltd.'s exit, raising concerns about its sector's viability. GNPC seeks partnerships and emphasizes decarbonization, aiming to restore confidence and establish itself in Africa's energy industry.

Ousainou Bojang maintains innocence in trial for fatally shooting two Gambia Police Force constables in 2023, urging Anti-Crime Unit to identify real perpetrator. Accused of shooting officers at Sukuta traffic lights, Bojang faces charges alongside his sister; trial highlights allegations of police

A widespread bread shortage hits Greater Banjul Area, leaving residents frustrated despite reassurances from National Bakers Union. Plans to increase bread price spark concerns over affordability, with consumers struggling to find alternatives amid suspicions of hoarding or supply chain disruptions, highlighting unresolved issues between bakers and government.

Gunmen launched an armed robbery at a shop in Cheedy Wolof, Gambia, injuring two children and fleeing with a substantial amount of money. The recurring incident highlights the escalating wave of violent crimes targeting businesses, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced security measures.

Western diplomatic missions, including the French consulate in Bamako, are reportedly refusing to recognize the newly introduced AES passports held by Malians, causing concerns among passport holders. Malian authorities assert all necessary procedures for international recognition have been followed, and efforts are underway to address the issue.

Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti wins the African Union Commission Chairperson election, defeating Kenya's Raila Odinga at the AU Summit. Youssouf, 59, secured a two-thirds majority with 33 votes in the final round, succeeding Chad's

Maltese police arrest Gambian national Camara Sambou for drug trafficking in Paceville, a nightlife hotspot. Sambou allegedly attempted to sell cocaine and cannabis, resisted arrest, causing minor injuries to an officer. Remanded in custody after pleading not guilty in court. Case ongoing.

Nigerian journalist Adeola Eunice Oladele Fayehun criticizes former U.S. President Donald Trump's comments on South Africa's land reform, accusing him of distorting history and racial fearmongering. Fayehun argues that Trump's defense of white farmers overlooks apartheid-era

Senegal's Court of Auditors' financial review revealed misreported economic data by the previous government, leading to a drop in sovereign Eurobonds. The audit uncovered high debt levels and irregularities, prompting Senegal to address fiscal concerns and enhance financial controls.

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal has announced urgent fiscal reforms to address a significant budget deficit and financial mismanagement, including unaccounted-for debts and a rising national wage bill. Reforms focus on transparency, debt policy review, and oversight to restore confidence and economic stability.

Alhaji Mbye Chow, a towering figure in The Gambia's cultural and public service sectors, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of artistic contributions, youth development initiatives, and tourism promotion. His versatile career spanned public service, performing arts, leadership, and philanthropy, impacting countless lives

The Local Government Commission of Inquiry in The Gambia continues to investigate financial and administrative activities in local councils, with testimony from the Arab Gambian Islamic Bank clarifying its role in financing the Mbalit Project through a partnership with Espace Motors. Councillor Habib M.L. Ceesay

During Aero India 2025, Indian and Gambian defense ministers reaffirmed commitment to enhancing bilateral ties, focusing on military training, capacity building, and defense industry cooperation. Discussions emphasized knowledge exchange and potential collaboration, reflecting India's broader strategy of deepening security partnerships with African nations.

The Gambian Inspector General of Police reveals a decade-long criminal enterprise masterminded by Ansumana Ansu Jarju, involved in multiple high-profile robberies since 2014. Jarju and his accomplices executed brazen heists, leading to recent arrests and increased police efforts to combat organized

Former Kuntaur Area Council CEO Pa Nfansu Darboe faced allegations of financial mismanagement and irregular land transactions during his testimony before the Gambia Local Government Commission, admitting to unauthorized payments and procurement inconsistencies while denying direct involvement in disputed land sales.

Transparency International's 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index ranks The Gambia at 98th globally with a score of 37, indicating sustained corruption challenges. Neighboring Senegal fares better at 70th with a score of 43, while Guinea-Bissau faces historical corruption issues.

Residents of Medina-Mary in Senegal seek expulsion of Gambians occupying local land, sparking tensions over unauthorized use. Senegalese officials investigate individuals holding Senegalese identity cards but cultivating land, suspecting administrative irregularities. Calls for legal action and closure of loopholes intensify amid escalating

Malian military junta detains Daouda Magassa, a key supporter of exiled cleric Imam Mahmoud Dicko, to thwart Dicko’s planned return on February 14. Magassa's detention is seen as intimidation, but Dicko's supporters remain determined for his return despite mounting pressure and

Guinea-Bissau extradited Ansumana Jarju to The Gambia for his alleged involvement in a 2025 armed robbery at an Access Bank branch, following the ECOWAS Police Cooperation Agreement. This extradition highlights regional collaboration in combating transnational crime within West Africa.

Senegalese parliamentarian and mayor Farba Ngom voluntarily appeared before the investigating judge in the 125 billion CFA franc case, expressing confidence and readiness to respond. His lawyer cited concerns about case opacity and alleged reputation tarnishing, as the investigation also targets businessman Tahirou Sarr and

Gambiaj.com – (Banjul, The Gambia) – The Gambia Police Force has made significant progress in its investigation into the armed robbery at El Hella Shop in Banjul, leading to multiple arrests and the recovery of stolen cash and firearms. The robbery took place on Hagan Street, Banjul, at approximately 09:08 hrs, when two armed individuals stormed the shop, held the complainant, Muhammed Seedy Hydra, at gunpoint, and stole D1,245,000.00 and 1,650,000.00 CFA before fleeing. Further police inquiries revealed that Amadou Wurry Jallow, a mechanic, had been instructed to drive the vehicle out of Banjul for maintenance and repainting to conceal evidence.

Gambiaj.com – (TEHRAN, Iran) – Iran’s Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, has called on the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to take urgent action to prevent what he described as an orchestrated plan to ethnically cleanse Palestinians from Gaza. In a telephone conversation on Sunday night with his Gambian counterpart, Mamadou Tangara, whose country currently holds the rotating presidency of the OIC, Araghchi condemned the alleged US-Israeli scheme to expel Palestinians from the war-torn enclave. The Iranian top diplomat stressed the need for a unified and forceful response from the international community, urging OIC member states to convene an emergency meeting of their foreign ministers to address the crisis.

Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE) has provided clarifications regarding its decision to use the Olof language as a trial medium of instruction in the Mainstreaming Effective Intervention Strategies in Schools (MEISS) pilot program. According to MoBSE, the MEISS program is part of efforts to improve foundational literacy and numeracy among young learners in Grades 1-3 by integrating strategies that have proven effective in out-of-school programs run by the NGO Effective Intervention (EI). The MEISS pilot, supported by the World Bank’s Resilience, Inclusive, Skills, and Equity (RISE) project, is currently being implemented in 55 public lower basic schools across Regions 1, 2, 3, and 5 (North and South), covering only 10% of public schools.

Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Top American human rights lawyer Reed Brody has warned that US President Donald Trump’s decision to freeze all US-funded programs will severely impact The Gambia’s efforts to prosecute former President Yahya Jammeh. Now, organizations like the Centre for Justice and Accountability have paused work due to the aid freeze, and many Gambian groups are facing the same crisis.” Despite the setback, Brody noted that organizations are seeking alternative funding sources, engaging the diaspora, and pursuing diplomatic efforts to reverse the cuts. The fight for justice, democracy, and human dignity is far from over.” Growing Resistance to the Aid Freeze Brody highlighted that US congressional Democrats are pushing for legislative measures to restore funding, while advocacy groups, faith-based organizations, and NGOs are mobilizing public pressure to reverse the cuts.

Gambiaj.com – (DAKAR, Senegal) – A Dakar court has rejected a request to strip former Senegalese Prime Minister Amadou Ba and former Budget Minister Birima Mangara of their parliamentary immunity, dealing a blow to efforts by the public prosecutor to pursue legal action against them. Amadou Ba, who served as prime minister under former President Macky Sall and was the ruling coalition’s unsuccessful candidate in the March 2024 presidential election, is reportedly implicated in a case related to the expropriation of land for public use. “Freedom of expression is not negotiable,” he declared, condemning the “arbitrary and unjustified arrests of political opponents.” He also denounced the recent revocation of Barthélemy Dias’s mandate as mayor of Dakar, calling it “a serious attack on the popular will and the very foundation of local democracy.” Ba’s remarks signal his continued role as a vocal opposition figure in Senegalese politics, even as legal and political uncertainties loom over his future.

Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Pa Fansu Darboe, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Kuntaur Area Council (KAC), has admitted to flouting procurement regulations, approving unauthorized financial practices, and inflating budget figures during his testimony before a commission of inquiry. When pressed by Gomez on whether KAC followed procurement regulations, Darboe admitted, “No, we were not following the procurement processes.” In a further admission of financial irregularities, Darboe disclosed that he authorized revenue collectors to make direct payments from collected funds before depositing them into the council’s bank account—an explicit violation of financial regulations. Commission Chairperson Jainaba Bah questioned Darboe on why the council projected revenue of 17 million dalasi in one year despite having collected only six million the previous year.

“The only thing we take a certain satisfaction from is that everything we said turned out to be true,” Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a weekly briefing, referring to Moscow’s longstanding criticism of the agency. “It is a machine for interfering in internal affairs; it is a mechanism for changing regimes, political order, and state structure.” The aid arm of U.S. foreign policy, USAID, funded health and emergency programs as well as democracy promotion initiatives in around 120 countries, including the world’s poorest regions. Musk has called USAID “a viper’s nest of radical-left Marxists who hate America.” Trump said last week it was being run by a “bunch of radical lunatics.” The assault on the agency has drawn a swift backlash from aid groups.

Babucarr Fofana, former regional coordinator for the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) in Kuntaur, The Gambia, faced questioning over his handling of a 100,000-dalasi fund intended for COVID-19 relief. Fofana argued the funds were used for general disaster relief, citing major disasters in the region coinciding with the pandemic. The Local Government Commission of Inquiry is investigating the matter, with Lead Counsel Patrick Gomez asserting the funds were improperly accepted by the NDMA and demanding evidence of expenditures.

The trial of Augustine Bangura, accused of murdering a British woman in The Gambia, continues with the testimony of Sub Inspector Boye, who detailed the investigation and arrest of Bangura. The suspect, who initially denied involvement, later confessed to the crime, leading to the recovery of stolen items and the murder weapon. The case has been adjourned until March 5, 2025, for further proceedings.

The Gambian government's decision to feature former President Yahya Jammeh's image on billboards commemorating the country's Diamond Jubilee has sparked controversy. Critics, including human rights activists and legal professionals, argue that this move undermines the country's transitional justice efforts and glorifies a leader known for his brutal regime. The debate reflects broader issues in The Gambia's post-Jammeh era regarding reconciliation and national unity.

The Tanji Village Development Committee (VDC) in The Gambia has been officially dissolved by the Brikama Area Council due to several violations, including failure to hold an Annual General Meeting throughout its five-year tenure and allegations of fiscal mismanagement. The Council is now expected to oversee the establishment of a new VDC, in line with governance regulations.

The Gambia government's concession agreement with Turkish company Albayrak for the management of the Banjul Seaport and the development of a Deep Seaport in Sanyang has been marred by irregularities, according to an investigation by The Alkamba Times. The report raises concerns about the bidding process, Albayrak’s qualifications, and the government’s decision-making, with allegations that the contract was awarded despite Albayrak failing to meet all bid requirements. The investigation also reveals financial and managerial disputes within the Albayrak-Negmar Consortium, and allegations of corruption and mismanagement in Albayrak's past engagements in other African countries.

A Gambian contractor, Lamin Y.F.A. Mboge, has admitted to the Local Government Commission of Inquiry that he paid a bribe to officials of the Kuntaur Area Council after securing a government contract. Mboge, the proprietor of Mbulmano Construction, claimed that council officials demanded a bribe of 150,000 dalasi in relation to a borehole drilling contract, which he negotiated down to 100,000 dalasi. The Commission of Inquiry was established to investigate the financial and administrative operations of local councils, with the aim of improving transparency and accountability.

The Gambia International Airlines Ltd. (GIA) has announced the details and cost of its 2025 Hajj package, priced at D525,000 per pilgrim. The package includes round-trip airfare between The Gambia and Saudi Arabia, hotel accommodations, ground transportation, meals, and a 5-liter bottle of Zam Zam water. However, the cost of the Tobaski ram is not included, and pilgrims wishing to perform the Tobaski sacrifice will need to pay an additional D15,000.

The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia have signed a historic agreement to implement free roaming, aiming to lower mobile costs for travelers and improve regional connectivity. The deal, which aligns with ECOWAS regulations, was formalized by regulators from each country's telecommunications authority and is expected to boost trade, tourism, and business operations. The initiative is part of a broader effort to expand free-roaming agreements across all ECOWAS member states, potentially contributing to Africa's projected $180 billion digital economy by 2025.

The Drug Law Enforcement Agency, The Gambia (DLEAG) has arrested Gambian national Saikou Krubally in a major drug bust at Banjul International Airport, seizing 128,745 ecstasy pills. Krubally, who arrived in Banjul from Brussels, was under surveillance and was arrested on February 2, 2025. This arrest is part of DLEAG's ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking through the airport, with more than 215,000 ecstasy pills and other illicit substances seized in the past three months.

The Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) in The Gambia has expressed concern over the arrest and detention of Sira Touray by the Gambia Police Force. The rights group has urged the Inspector General of Police to respect Touray's rights in detention and provide a public update on the circumstances surrounding her arrest. The case has raised issues about due process and detainee rights in The Gambia.

The Gambia Police Force has clarified that recent murder cases were acts of domestic violence, not random or gang-related crimes, occurring between January 29 and February 1, 2025. The incidents took place in private residences in Bansang, Wellingara, Dippa Kunda, and Sinchu Malado, involving individuals with pre-existing relationships. The police are urging for greater societal involvement in addressing domestic violence and have initiated a community sensitization program on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and domestic abuse.

President Adama Barrow of The Gambia has emphasized his government's commitment to reducing living costs, increasing domestic production, and modernizing infrastructure for economic stability. He outlined efforts to encourage business investment in agriculture and energy, including a tender for a 50MW solar farm, and addressed concerns over the privatization of the country's main port. Barrow's administration faces the challenge of translating these policies into real economic relief for ordinary Gambians, with the success of these initiatives crucial in determining whether The Gambia can achieve sustainable growth and reduce its dependence on imports.

President Adama Barrow of The Gambia has expressed his readiness to engage in direct talks with Ousainou Darboe, the leader of the main opposition United Democratic Party (UDP), amidst ongoing tensions between the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) and the UDP. The President emphasized the importance of national interests over political rivalries and reiterated his support for constitutional reforms, including presidential term limits. The move signals a potential shift in political engagement as the country seeks a new constitution that balances democratic governance with executive authority.

A bench warrant has been issued in The Gambia for the arrest of Bemba Drammeh, who failed to appear in court to face charges of seditious intent. Drammeh, who had previously been granted bail, fled the country and did not attend his scheduled court hearing. He had previously claimed in an interview that the 2021 presidential election was rigged, and his absence has led to his bail being revoked.

President Adama Barrow of The Gambia has responded to threats from exiled predecessor Yahya Jammeh, stating that if Jammeh returns to the country, he must face justice for alleged crimes committed during his 22-year rule. This comes after Jammeh, currently in exile in Equatorial Guinea, suggested in a recent speech that he would reclaim power upon his return. The Gambian government maintains that Jammeh can return as a citizen, but not to power, and must answer for his past actions.

Relevant: As of November 24, 2024, 1,035 Gambian nationals are on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) non-detained docket with final orders of removal. The Gambia has been classified as a country “at risk of non-compliance” with U.S. removal efforts, indicating potential delays in confirming citizenship, issuing travel documents, or accepting repatriation flights to The Gambia.

Gambian-born rapper Pa Salieu returns with his acclaimed mixtape "Afrikan Alien," showcasing a blend of afrobeats, UK rap, and R&B. After enduring imprisonment, Salieu reflects on resilience and the responsibility of artists to shape culture through their music.

The National Assembly of Senegal has voted to lift the parliamentary immunity of Deputy Mouhamadou Ngom, also known as Farba Ngom, allowing for judicial proceedings against him. Ngom is under investigation by the Financial Judicial Unit, marking a significant step in Senegal's efforts to address financial accountability among public officials. The decision has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that the process lacked fairness and transparency.

The U.S. State Department has ordered a freeze on nearly all new foreign aid funding, potentially affecting billions of dollars in health, education, and development projects worldwide. The freeze, expected to last at least three months, exempts emergency food programs and military aid to Israel and Egypt but includes critical health initiatives like the President’s Emergency Relief Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). This move has sparked concern among humanitarian organizations and aid agencies, with House Democrats urging Secretary of State Marco Rubio to lift the freeze.

A jihadist attack near Kayes, Mali, on January 19, 2025, has raised concerns over security at the Senegalese-Malian border. Despite increased surveillance and security measures, the porous border and rise in illicit activities provide opportunities for jihadist infiltration. Experts stress the need for enhanced security measures, regional cooperation, and long-term preventive strategies to counter the growing threat of terrorism in the region.

Njau Sawalo village experienced an armed robbery at a Mauritanian-owned shop, resulting in the theft of an unspecified amount of money. The police responded swiftly and are investigating, urging the public to assist by providing information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects.