The Gambia's goalless draw against Gabon in the African Nations Championships playoffs marked a strong start, with striker Musa Ceesay's early goal disallowed. Gabon struggled to break through the Gambian defense, setting up a decisive second leg match in Franceville.

The Women Journalists Association of The Gambia, in partnership with the Gambia Press Union, conducted a training for 25 female journalists on gender-sensitive reporting and ethical journalism, with a focus on sexual and gender-based violence. Emphasis was placed on amplifying women's voices and advocating for issues affecting

Bai Dodou Jallow, president of the Gambia National Olympics Committee, elected to ANOCA Zone 2 executive board during a meeting in Bamako, Mali. His election signifies The Gambia's increased influence in the African Olympic movement.

The Women Journalists Association of The Gambia and the Gambia Press Union held a two-day training program for 25 female journalists, focusing on gender-sensitive reporting, ethical journalism, and SGBV issues. Emphasis was placed on amplifying women's voices and advocating for societal concerns.

The Gambia nominates Abubacarr M. Tambadou for Judge of the International Court of Justice in 2026, citing his extensive experience in international law and notable achievements, including prosecuting high-profile cases at international criminal tribunals.

The Gambia nominates Abubacarr M. Tambadou for the International Court of Justice, highlighting his extensive experience in international law and notable achievements, including prosecuting high-profile cases and earning global recognition.

Gambians in the UK celebrated The Gambia's independence at a special event in London, organized by the High Commission. Keynote speeches emphasized unity and gratitude, with recognition of the diaspora's vital role, historical ties with the UK, and a festive parade and reception.

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.

Gambia's national women's team advances in Afcon qualifiers, men's U-17 team to compete in Morocco, and CHAN-Gambia prepares for Caf CHAN qualifiers against Gabon, showing renewed enthusiasm in Gambian football across multiple categories.

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 Gambian High Commission in the UK honored singer Sona Jobarteh and rapper Pa Salieu Gaye for promoting Gambian culture through music, with Jobarteh recognized for her humanitarian work and establishment of a kora school, and Gaye for highlighting his Gambian roots internationally.

Rahma Gambia Ltd inaugurates Gambia's first food processing plant in Foni Kanfenda, aiming to enhance food security, boost exports, and create local jobs. The project signals a crucial step towards self-reliance and economic growth, supported by government officials and community leaders.

The Institute of Security Studies recommends Ecowas seek UN and AU assistance for Gambia's constitutional building process, crucial for security and judicial reforms post-dictatorship. Despite political tensions over the 'Barrow Constitution', Ecowas mediation is urged for stability and transitional justice progress.

The Gambian High Commission in the UK honors singer Sona Jobarteh and rapper Pa Salieu Gaye for promoting Gambian culture internationally, recognizing their music and advocacy efforts. Jobarteh's song "Gambia" symbolizes national pride, while Gaye showcases his Gambian roots through performances

CHIME project, with R65 million funding from UK's NIHR, studies how music can improve perinatal mental health in Africa. Research shows benefits of participatory singing for pregnant women in South Africa, Lesotho, and The Gambia, aiming to reduce prenatal stress and anxiety.

Gambia's Information Minister highlighted strong bilateral ties with Türkiye, emphasizing peaceful democracy, cultural richness, and tourism potential. Cooperation in media sector and mutual understanding of cultures promoted, with Türkiye supporting Gambia's defense and education sectors, fostering growth in exports and cultural exchanges.

Rahma Gambia Ltd initiates Gambia's first food processing plant in Foni Kanfenda, aiming to bolster food security, create jobs, and reduce reliance on imports. Government officials and local leaders applaud the venture for its potential economic and social impact.

The University of Bristol has been granted £3.5 million by UKRI for the SHINE project, aiming to integrate well-being into energy system design. Collaborating with international researchers, the project in West Africa will focus on inclusivity and sustainability.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at in The Gambia celebrates the country's 60th independence anniversary, emphasizing unity, love for one's nation, and collective efforts towards national development. They extend heartfelt congratulations and prayers for continued progress and prosperity under the banner of brotherhood.

Gambia Participates recommends National Assembly enact campaign finance law to address lack of regulation, transparency issues, and vote-buying in Gambia's electoral process, pushing for accountability, transparency, and neutrality among political parties, media, and security personnel.

Alport Banjul sponsors a maritime conference organized by RMU and DMI, focusing on sustainable development in the blue economy with high-profile speakers and topics like marine resources and sustainable shipping, reflecting The Gambia’s maritime growth and economic progress.

French graffiti artists Fanny Boimare and Naja showcase powerful portraits of influential Gambian and African women in public spaces in Banjul, sparking empowerment and recognition. The initiative, funded by the French Embassy, aims to celebrate women's achievements and inspire change through vibrant street art.

A delegation of African Development Bank Executive Directors visits The Gambia to assess project effectiveness, meet government officials, and explore collaboration opportunities under the country's National Development Plan.

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.

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

Tensions rise at the Gambian-Senegalese border as Gambian youths clash with Senegalese soldiers over goods transportation in Casamance, leading to a standoff over alleged illicit trade practices and territorial disputes in the contested village of Tranquil.

President Barrow inaugurates The Gambia's 2025 Legal Year, emphasizing judicial independence, modernization, transitional justice, anti-corruption measures, and security sector reform. Reforms aim to strengthen the rule of law, enhance efficiency, restore public confidence, and promote accountability and human rights.

The IMF technical assistance report on the Gambia highlights annual loss of 200,000-300,000 cubic meters of sediment due to coastal erosion, projecting potential $2 billion costs by 2090. The country's vulnerability to climate change threatens critical infrastructure and ecosystems.

The Gambian government is urged to provide appointment letters with terms, conditions, and pay for citizens going to work in Saudi Arabia. Foroyaa will investigate and share its findings with readers soon.

A delegation of seven executive directors from the African Development Bank visited The Gambia for a five-day consultation mission, highlighting the deepening partnership for sustainable development and economic reform. The visit underscores President Barrow's leadership and commitment to collaboration with the Bank.

UDP leader Darboe laments betrayal of Independence heroes' dreams by poor governance and corruption in Gambia. He criticizes Barrow administration's inefficiency and lack of progress, urging for visionary leadership to fulfill promise of independence for all Gambians.

Bakary Badjie, an Independent NAM aligned with former president Jammeh's faction, announced his presidential bid at the Gambia Teachers Union Conference Center, citing the country's dire situation and the need for a savior to address issues like youth suffering and economic challenges.

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 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.

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 reflects on 60 years of independence, highlighting achievements and challenges under past administrations. Calls for unity, accountability, and development, emphasizing the need for economic diversification, healthcare and education reforms, sports funding, and a culture of patriotism.

The Gambia reflects on 60 years of independence, highlighting achievements and challenges under past administrations while emphasizing the need for unity, accountability, and development to achieve economic self-sufficiency, eradicate corruption, improve healthcare and education, invest in sports, and instill patriotism for a prosperous future.

Albayrak Group's subsidiary, Alport Banjul, has taken over The Gambia's ports under a 30-year PPP agreement, aiming to modernize facilities, increase efficiency, and boost the country's role as a trade hub in West Africa, with plans for job creation and economic

Yahya K. Jallow, a young Gambian social entrepreneur and climate activist, empowers women and youth in agriculture with climate-smart techniques and business skills. With seven years of experience, he trains farmers in sustainable farming methods, reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and promoting climate change mitigation.

The Gambia Police warns commercial drivers against unauthorized fare hikes, as reports show rates exceeding approved levels on the Serekunda-Brikama route. Officers are instructed to monitor and take action, urging the public to report violations to ensure fair transport practices.

The Ambassador of Türkiye congratulates The Gambia on its 60th Independence Day, highlighting strong bilateral relations, including military cooperation, trade growth, and development projects. Türkiye pledges continued support across various sectors to enhance partnership.

Yahya K. Jallow, a young Gambian social entrepreneur and climate activist, empowers women and youth in agriculture through climate-smart techniques and business skills. With 7+ years of experience, he trains farmers with innovative solutions and recently completed a prestigious agriculture internship in Israel.

Ambassador Türker OBA congratulates The Gambia on its 60th Independence Day, highlighting bilateral relations, economic growth, military cooperation, and shared commitment to global issues, expressing continued support for development projects and educational initiatives.

UDP leader Ousainu Darboe marked The Gambia's 60th Independence Day, praising past achievements but criticizing current challenges under President Barrow, citing corruption and poor governance. He called for visionary leadership to realize the nation's potential for progress and prosperity.

Turkey's Ambassador Türker OBA congratulates The Gambia on its 60th independence anniversary, highlighting strong bilateral ties, including defense cooperation and trade growth, as well as shared commitments to democracy, economic development, and international peace initiatives.

UDP leader Ousainu Darboe commemorates The Gambia's 60th Independence Day, praising progress but critiquing ongoing challenges like poverty and corruption under President Barrow's administration. Darboe calls for visionary leadership to fulfill the nation's potential and emphasizes UDP's commitment to democracy

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

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

The Gambia faces potential asylum seeker crisis in Europe or USA due to statelessness, prompting need for action to prevent it. Offspring of Gambians being US citizens raises questions on justifying statelessness. Foroyaa to investigate and seek solutions.

Nearly 600 residents of Ghana Town in Brufut, Gambia face statelessness due to lack of official documents, with 94% lacking any form of identification. The report highlights a need for legal reforms and cooperation between governments to address this issue.

Heads of government-run tertiary institutions in The Gambia gather for a five-day retreat to align strategic priorities for 2025, fostering collaboration and efficiency in the higher education sector, emphasizing national and global alignment and setting key objectives for enhancing governance and accountability.

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.

The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child expresses concerns over challenges facing children in The Gambia, including early marriage impacting education. Report highlights dropout causes, violence statistics, and calls for protective measures and comprehensive strategies for children's rights.

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.

The Agri-Accelerator Project, launched in Banjul, Gambia, aims to empower young entrepreneurs in the agriculture sector by providing training and resources funded by the German Ministry of Food and Agriculture, with collaborative efforts from various organizations to enhance food security and sustainable development.

Despite mounting evidence and damning reports from the auditor general, the government has shown little interest in accountability, with President Barrow himself dismissing audit reports as “just an opinion”. The Barrow government will not take any serious action to fight corruption, but a UDP government will take urgent actions to restore accountability and rebuild public trust. Corruption in The Gambia under President Adama Barrow’s government has reached alarming levels, with every sector and ministry affected.

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.

- Advertisement - By: Alieu Jallow The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) on Thursday, February 6, 2025, is convening a day-long workshop titled “Enhancing Collaboration and Coordination Among Government Agencies, CSOs, and Humanitarian Actors Involved in Migration-Related Activities.” The event aims to bolster The Gambia’s resilience to climate shocks and address the root causes of internal and irregular migration. Delivering the keynote address on behalf of NDMA Executive Director Madam Binta Sey Jadama, Acting Administrative Director emphasized the critical need for a unified approach: “Building resilience against climate-induced challenges requires a collaborative effort,” she stated, citing that as an agency, they have witnessed firsthand the struggles of communities displaced by floods, droughts, and environmental degradation. - Advertisement - As The Gambia continues to face the challenges posed by climate change, such collaborative efforts are essential in building a resilient society capable of withstanding environmental shocks and minimizing forced migration.

- Advertisement - By: Alieu Jallow The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) on Thursday, February 6, 2025, is convening a day-long workshop titled “Enhancing Collaboration and Coordination Among Government Agencies, CSOs, and Humanitarian Actors Involved in Migration-Related Activities.” The event aims to bolster The Gambia’s resilience to climate shocks and address the root causes of internal and irregular migration. Delivering the keynote address on behalf of NDMA Executive Director Madam Binta Sey Jadama, Acting Administrative Director emphasized the critical need for a unified approach: “Building resilience against climate-induced challenges requires a collaborative effort,” she stated, citing that as an agency, they have witnessed firsthand the struggles of communities displaced by floods, droughts, and environmental degradation. - Advertisement - As The Gambia continues to face the challenges posed by climate change, such collaborative efforts are essential in building a resilient society capable of withstanding environmental shocks and minimizing forced migration.

Alieu Njie, arrested at Banjul International Airport in The Gambia with ecstasy tablets in December last year, has been convicted and fined D500,000 or a default six-year prison sentence. Njie was found guilty on two counts of possessing and dealing in prohibited drugs by Principal Magistrate Anna Mendy of the Brikama court. He was caught with 47,078 pills of MDMA (ecstasy) amounting to 22kg 900g.

The Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights & Justice (EFSCRJ) has objected to the inclusion of former Gambian president Yahya Jammeh's portrait on a billboard commemorating The Gambia's diamond jubilee of independence. The organization argues that Jammeh, who led the country from 1994 to 2017, violated the constitution, committed human rights abuses, and imposed autocratic rule. The EFSCRJ is calling for Jammeh's image to be removed from the billboard and for his legacy to be remembered as a dark period in the nation's history.

Lang Balla Sawo, the suspended president of the Gambia Dock and Maritime Workers Union, has petitioned the Banjul High Court to order the Gambia Ports Authority to pay him D1 million for alleged wrongful interference in his office. Sawo is also seeking a declaration that his suspension is null and void, and that his removal from the board of directors of the Dock Labour Company, Gambia Limited, is unlawful. He is further demanding that the defendants vacate his office and pay all dividends due to him by the Gambia Ports Authority.

The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC-Gambia) threshold programme, aimed at addressing The Gambia's electricity challenges, has been temporarily paused due to an executive order by US President Donald Trump. The order, which freezes all US-funded programmes worldwide for 90 days, has caused the delay of a US$25 million grant intended to fund economy-boosting investments, reduce poverty, and improve education, transport, and the ecosystem along The Gambia River. Despite the pause, the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) will continue its operations and no staff layoffs are expected.

This article is about the political situation in The Gambia, focusing on President Adama Barrow's intention to run for a third term. Critics argue that despite the constitution allowing unlimited terms, Barrow's decision contradicts his previous support for term limits and risks causing instability. The article also highlights the president's prioritization of his party's interests over those of the Gambian people, and the potential implications for the 2026 elections.

Alhagie Alieu Momarr Njai, the long-serving Chairman of The Gambia's Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), has officially announced his retirement. During his tenure, the IEC oversaw several major elections, including the significant 2016 presidential election, which saw a peaceful yet turbulent transition of power from Yahya Jammeh to Adama Barrow.

The Gambia College Students Teachers Association (STA) is launching a football championship at the Brikama campus, named this year after Mayor Talib Bensouda of KMC. The competition, organized by Gambia College sports minister Lamin F Sanneh, aims to promote unity and teamwork among students and teachers in the School of Education. The tournament, which will include both male and female categories, is set to commence this evening.

The Gambia For All (GFA) party has criticized President Adama Barrow's administration, accusing it of failing the Gambian people and blaming it for the continued influence of exiled former dictator Yahya Jammeh. The GFA expressed regret at the lack of meaningful institutional and constitutional reforms under Barrow's leadership, and urged the president to prioritize the interests of The Gambia for good governance, economic prosperity, and political stability.

Gambian Under-17 footballer Francis Gomez has arrived in Denmark for a one-month trial at AC Horsens, managed by Sheriff Jarju of Ebanor Sports. Gomez, who recently scored in Sibanor’s 2-1 victory over Siffoe United, is also reportedly attracting interest from teams such as Rukh FC and FK Sarajevo.

The Gambia continues to be a significant producer of oilseeds, with its historical production data indicating 96,152 tons of groundnuts produced in 1915. The country's oil mill, previously owned by GOMB/GPMB before bankruptcy and subsequent takeover in the second Republic, is currently under the Barrow administration. Despite the potential to produce various products including seed and oil, groundnut cake, briquettes, soap, and chicken feed, the innovative capacity is reportedly not being stimulated by government policies and practices.

A recent agreement between The Gambia and Spain, allowing for legal migration of 50 Gambian labourers to Spain, has sparked controversy. Critics argue that the Gambian government has failed to create sufficient domestic job opportunities, leading to dissatisfaction among citizens. Meanwhile, activist Yahya Sonko has accused the government of a lack of transparency regarding the agreement, leading to confusion and unrealistic expectations among the youth.

The Gambia Police Force has clarified that the recent murder cases reported between January 29th and February 1st, 2025, were acts of domestic violence, not random acts of violence that could be prevented through routine policing strategies. The force is committed to proactively addressing domestic violence through various initiatives, including community policing, sensitization, strengthening laws against domestic violence, and working with social services. Despite a decline in crime rates in 2024, the force acknowledges the recent incidents of alleged armed robberies at the start of 2025 and pledges to intensify efforts in crime prevention, law enforcement, and community engagement.

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.

Dr. Abubacarr Jawara, CEO of Gambia, Africa, China Holding (GACH), has significantly reduced the cost of basalt in The Gambia by importing directly from Ivory Coast, bypassing Senegal. This move has made basalt more accessible for local construction projects, saving time and money. Jawara praised President Barrow's administration for creating an environment conducive to private investment, which has made such ventures possible.

In an ongoing trial in The Gambia, Paulo Djabi, his wife Nadine Ismael de Gouveira Pereira, and Mamadu Neto Djabi face 21 criminal charges related to drug trafficking and money laundering. The prosecution has amended counts 19 and 20 and introduced a new charge, count 21, alleging that Djabi laundered money by purchasing vehicles, motorbikes, and a jet ski. The case, which falls under The Gambia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Combating of Terrorist Financing Act, 2012, will resume on March 3, 2025.

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP), once a significant political force in The Gambia, is facing internal disputes and a decline in influence. A faction within the party has challenged the results of the leadership election held in December, alleging constitutional violations by some candidates. Uthman Jeng, a representative of the dissenting faction, emphasized the importance of constitutional integrity and fairness in the electoral process.

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.

Alagie Ceesay and Alagie Secka, young players from the Logic Sports Academy in The Gambia, are set to continue their football and educational journey at the New English School in Jordan. This move follows a partnership between Logic Sports and the school, a development that Minyan Jobe, the chairman of Logic Sports, believes will bring significant benefits for the players and their parents.

Essa Bokarr Sey, former ambassador and deputy chief executive officer of the OIC Gambia Secretariat, has publicly declared his opposition to any third term for incumbent president, Adama Barrow. Sey, who previously served as The Gambia’s ambassador in Taiwan and the US, voiced concerns that term limit manipulations and constitution tampering are key causes of conflict and political instability in West Africa.

The Njie Charakh School of Business Training in The Gambia has graduated 200 women entrepreneurs after a five-month intensive course on business and entrepreneurship. The school, which was established a year ago, has trained over 500 entrepreneurs to date. The CEO of Njie Charakh, Morr Sarr, highlighted the profits made by the entrepreneurs within five months of completing training and called on the government to support such initiatives to boost job creation and reduce unemployment.

The Gambia's national football team, the Scorpions, will play their 2026 World Cup qualifier matches against Kenya and Côte d’Ivoire in Abidjan due to the Independence Stadium not being approved before March 17. The decision to host the home match in Abidjan was made to reduce travel and logistical costs. This comes as a disappointment for Gambians who were hoping to see their national team play at home after a five-year wait.

The article criticizes the Gambia's President Adama Barrow's government for its focus on road construction at the expense of other sectors such as healthcare and education. The author argues that while infrastructure development is important, it has led to a declining standard of living, a struggling healthcare system, increasing crime rates, and deteriorating educational outcomes. The piece calls for a more balanced approach to development, prioritizing investments in healthcare, education, job creation, and social services.

President Barrow, initially an independent candidate, is currently serving his second term in The Gambia, despite initially agreeing to serve for only three years. This year, as The Gambia turns 60, questions arise about whether Barrow will establish a two-term limit for future presidents or seek another term, potentially continuing a history of long-serving presidents in the country.

The Gambia's Minister of Transport, Works and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah, has announced that the Hakalang road project is nearing completion, with an inauguration expected by the end of April 2025. The project, which is fully funded by the Gambian government, includes an 85-kilometer road stretch divided into three sections, with approximately 85% of the work already completed. The Minister also visited other ongoing road projects in the country, emphasizing that these roads are linked to essential services like hospitals and schools.

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.

The Gambia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Momodou Tangara, has informed the National Assembly Foreign Affairs Committee about plans to open new embassies in Berlin, Stockholm, and Tokyo. The fact-finding missions for these proposed embassies have been successfully conducted and approved, with the reports sent to the Office of the President for further directives. Minister Tangara also updated the committee on the Foreign Service Bill, which is expected to be finalized and submitted for enactment by the National Assembly by the end of 2025.

Sheriff Kijera, former chairman of the Gambia Centre for Victims of Human Rights Violations, has called on the Barrow government to issue an international arrest warrant for former president Yahya Jammeh. This comes after Jammeh, currently in exile in Equatorial Guinea, released an audio declaring his intention to return to The Gambia, dismissing efforts to put him on trial. Kijera, now head of Accountability Project Gambia, has urged President Barrow to assure that Jammeh will be arrested and held accountable if he returns.

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.

President Adama Barrow of The Gambia has announced his intention to run for a third term in the upcoming presidential election, despite considering stepping down. He stated that his party, the National People's Party, is too young and unprepared to lose its leader. Despite public sentiment suggesting the country is headed in the wrong direction, Barrow expressed confidence in his administration's achievements and his chances of re-election.

Relevant: In the Lower and Upper Niumi Districts in the North Bank Region of The Gambia, seccos (agricultural cooperatives) reportedly owe farmers over fourteen million Dalasi (D14,000,000). Despite having debts, these seccos continue to take farmers' groundnuts on credit, with the Gambia Groundnut Corporation (GGC) promising to supply funds as soon as final reconciliation is completed.

Mariama Sowe has been reappointed as interim head coach of Gambia's Women's national football team, replacing Yahya Manneh who moved to the U-17 male team. Sowe, a CAF B license holder who guided Gambia to its first WAFU-A bronze title, will prepare the team for the African Women's Nations Cup qualifiers against Niger in February.

In response to criticisms from Ousainou Darboe and Essa Faal, President Adama Barrow and his officials typically respond with hostility. However, despite inflammatory remarks from former dictator Yaya Jammeh, the government has remained silent. This raises questions about Barrow's commitment to transitional justice and suggests he may be protecting Jammeh.

In 2024, over 1600 Gambians tragically lost their lives while attempting to migrate to Europe irregularly, with the majority perishing at sea. The government is urged to address the underlying factors driving this dangerous trend, such as lack of opportunities and skills training for young people. Urgent action is needed to stem the flow of migration and save lives.

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.

The Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure in Gambia has partnered with the National Roads Authority to sign a contract with AREZKI Company for the construction of the Bertil Harding Highway phase III. The project includes the construction of a new bridge, traffic lights, cameras, and service roads. AREZKI, which also constructed the first two phases of the highway, has already secured 70% of the resources needed for the third phase. The project is part of the Ministry's efforts to oversee the construction of about 500 kilometers of roads across the country.