Episode 2025-01-27

Today's Stories

1

Minister Bah Announces Findings Of Kamalo Land Allocation Investigation – The Fatu Network

Following an investigation into the Kamalo land allocation process, the Ministry of Lands has released a report recommending revoking Kamalo extension and implementing stricter measures, including a National Land Policy and environmental assessments. The report also recommends holding responsible officials accountable for irregularities and adopting measures to improve documentation and administrative oversight.
Fatu Network
2

NPP Bigwig Seedy Njie Is Father Of Women's Wing In West Coast – The Standard Newspaper

Members of the National People's Party (NPP) West Coast Region Women's Mobilisers have recognized party deputy spokesman Seedy Njie as their "father figure," highlighting their strong support for his leadership and guidance. Njie expressed surprise and gratitude for the recognition, pledging continued commitment to the party.
Standard
3

Lebanon Urges Gambia To Intensify Fight Against Corruption – The Standard Newspaper

Lebanon, alongside other nations, has urged The Gambia to strengthen its anti-corruption measures and address ongoing weaknesses in governance. Despite recent progress, concerns remain about the prevalence of corruption and the need for improved mechanisms to combat it.
Standard
4

Plans Afoot To Modernise GRTS- Minister Ceesay – The Standard Newspaper

The Gambian government plans to modernize state-owned GRTS by digitizing the broadcaster and rolling out the fourth phase of the Digital Terrestrial Transition project, an $11 million initiative. The project aims to transition television transmission from analog to digital, providing nationwide coverage.
Standard
5

GTU Demands Review Of Textbook Printing Contract – The Standard Newspaper

The Gambia Teachers Union has petitioned the minister of public service to revise the contract for printing senior secondary school textbooks. The union cites inadequate copies, limited subject coverage, and lack of distribution capacity as gaps in the current agreement that hinder educational development. They urge the ministry to address these issues to improve the quality of education and access to resources for students.
Standard
6

Minister Bah Announces Findings Of Kamalo Land Allocation Investigation – The Fatu Network

Minister Bah released the findings of the Kamalo Taskforce, which investigated land allocation irregularities. Recommendations adopted include maintaining Kamalo proper, revoking its extension, addressing documentation deficiencies, and holding accountable those responsible for missing files and administrative issues. These measures aim to improve land management practices and ensure transparency in the land allocation process.
Fatu Network
7

"Gambian People Deserve To Be Protected": Minister Bah Announces Hajj 2025 Improvements – The Fatu Network

The Gambian government has announced improvements for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, including better accommodation arrangements and a lower cost of 525,000 dalasis per pilgrim. Additionally, a strengthened agreement with Gambia International Airlines and oversight of food services aim to enhance the overall experience for Gambian pilgrims.
Fatu Network
8

“Their Goal Is to See The Gambia Fail”: Barrow Takes Aim at Essa Faal and UDP Elected Officials

President Adama Barrow criticized opposition leaders for undermining national progress and prioritizing their own ambitions. He acknowledged internal divisions within his own party and urged supporters to unite for the party's success and longevity. Barrow welcomed new party members and responded to criticism by opposition figure Essa Faal, dismissing it as baseless.
Gambia Journal
9

Gambian Convict Awarded Substantial Compensation for Unlawful Detention in the UK

Ebou Jasseh, a Gambian man convicted of assault in the UK, has been awarded compensation for unlawful detention by the High Court. The Home Office, which has been attempting to deport him for years, has yet to comment on whether he has been removed from the UK. Jasseh's case highlights the scrutiny surrounding the Home Office's handling of immigration cases involving individuals with criminal records.
Gambia Journal
10

Particulars about the Central Bank Employee Arrested with Over $57,000 and D370,000 in Cash

On January 24, 2025, Gambian authorities arrested three individuals, including a Central Bank employee, in possession of a substantial amount of cash during a routine traffic stop. The suspects claimed the funds were intended for delivery or religious purposes, but investigations are ongoing to verify their accounts. The incident raises concerns about cash handling practices within the Central Bank and the need for heightened security measures.
Gambia Journal
11

Task Force Arrests Man for Visa Fraud – Foroyaa Newspaper

On January 17, 2025, the Gambia Police Force arrested Yusuff Mendy for visa fraud. The suspect allegedly collected 585,000 dalasis from individuals by promising UK visas and was found with 49 passports and 90,000 dalasis in cash during a search of his residence. The police urge citizens to report suspicious activities and remain vigilant against scams.
Foroyaa
12

OIC Roads Will Be Ready By May – Foroyaa Newspaper

The Gambian government aims to complete all OIC road projects by May 2025, with progress on Lot One roads at 65% and Lot Two roads at 62% as of January 2025. Features of the ongoing projects include sidewalks, drains, and streetlights, with construction expected to be completed by March 2025.
Foroyaa
13

Exiled Kerr Mot Ali Residents Petition Regional Police Commissioner & Governor – Foroyaa Newspaper

Four exiled residents of Kerr Mot Ali have filed complaints with the police and governor regarding trespass and development on their former lands, which they allege was occupied illegally after they were forcibly displaced in 2009 due to their religious beliefs. The High Court had previously granted an injunction against such actions, but the complainants assert that it has not been enforced, and the TRRC has recommended their return and the restoration of their properties.
Foroyaa
14

HOW DOES GOVERNMENT INTEND TO REACT TO SOCIAL MEDIA? – Foroyaa Newspaper

The Ministry of Information in The Gambia has launched a campaign to combat misinformation and disinformation, particularly on social media. The campaign includes a nationwide tour to promote credible media and informed public engagement. The campaign aims to minimize the negative effects of false information and encourage the consumption of reliable news sources.
Foroyaa
15

Court Hears Testimony on Voluntariness of Statements in Arona Tine Murder Trial

The Gambia High Court is evaluating the voluntariness of statements made by Arona Tine, accused of killing Fatoumatta Kargbo. An independent witness testified that Tine was not coerced or threatened during the statement-taking process, but the defense alleges irregularities and questions the witness's impartiality. The court will determine if the statements can be used as evidence in the main trial.
Gambia Journal
16

M23 Rebels Claim Strategic Gains in Goma as Clashes Intensify in Eastern DRC

The city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is experiencing intense clashes between Congolese forces and M23 rebels, allegedly supported by Rwanda. The rebels have reportedly seized parts of the city, including the National Radio and Television of Congo facilities, causing fear and chaos among residents. The DRC has accused Rwanda of direct involvement, leading to international condemnation and calls for immediate intervention to prevent further violence.
Gambia Journal
17

FROM GENOCIDE TO DEPOPULATION OF GAZA – Foroyaa Newspaper

The Palestinian people are facing significant challenges in their pursuit of self-determination and independence, with Israel rejecting a two-state solution. The United Nations and the United States have been criticized for their inability to enforce resolutions and ensure co-existence between Israel and Palestine. Amidst a recent ceasefire in Gaza, there are concerns over the new U.S. President's comments suggesting Palestinians may have to settle in Egypt or Jordan, which some interpret as a call for ethnic cleansing.
Foroyaa
18

Rongo Wins Ruling Against Alkalo of Banjulunding & Others – Foroyaa Newspaper

Momodou Lamin Jarju, also known as Rongo, won a ruling against Momodou Lungs Jarju, the Alkalo of Banjulunding, in a case remitted by the Supreme Court to the High Court for fresh evidence. Justice Sonia Akinbiyi K.J.W, of the High Court, stated that the court's role is to gather fresh evidence before returning the case to the Supreme Court for continuation of the appeal. The case is related to a land dispute, with Rongo claiming to have new evidence to present.
Foroyaa
19

€1 Million Boost: French Development Agency Supports Gambia’s Flood Recovery – Foroyaa Newspaper

The French Development Agency has provided The Gambia's NDMA with €1 million to support flood recovery and strengthen disaster response. The funds will be used to procure equipment, construct flood-resistant houses, and enhance the NDMA's operational readiness during the rainy season.
Foroyaa
20

FPAC Tasks OVP to Ensure GBoS Provides Payment Vouchers of D450,890 – Foroyaa Newspaper

The Finance and Public Accounts Committee (FPAC) has tasked the Vice President's Office with ensuring that missing payment vouchers worth D450,890 from the Gambia Bureau of Statistics (GBoS) are provided for audit inspection by September 28, 2023. Additionally, FPAC has directed the Judiciary to prepare and submit its accounts for the period 2016-2022 for audit by December 31, 2023.
Foroyaa
21

Government Launches Nationwide Campaign to Combat Misinformation, Disinformation – Foroyaa Newspaper

The Ministry of Information, supported by Wave Gambia, has launched a nationwide campaign to combat misinformation and disinformation. The campaign aims to raise public awareness, foster media literacy, and promote responsible media consumption. Scheduled to run from January 31 to February 6, it includes a nationwide tour and media practitioner training.
Foroyaa