Daily Gambian News Summary
Episode 2025-02-05
EN WO FR AR

Today's Stories

1

BUREAU DE CHANGE WORKER TELLS COURT HE SPENT D1.9 M ON GAMBLING BETS – The Standard Newspaper

Tijan Jallow, an employee of Afro Express Bureau de Change in Brikama, Gambia, has been charged with stealing over D1.9 million from his employer and was arraigned at a local magistrate's court. Despite denying the charges, Jallow admitted to spending the money on gambling bets. The court granted him bail at D2 million with four Gambian sureties and two property deeds, with the full trial set to commence on February 13.
The Standard
2

Contractor Admits To Paying D100K Bribe To Kuntaur Area Council Officials – The Standard Newspaper

Lamin YFA Mboge, owner of Mbulmano Construction, testified at the Local Government Commission of Inquiry, alleging he paid a bribe exceeding D100,000 to Kuntaur Area Council (KAC) officials after securing two contracts for borehole drilling. Mboge claimed that council officials demanded 40% of his contract's value, significantly impacting his ability to procure project materials. The money was reportedly given to Lamin Kujabi, the director of planning, for distribution among senior officials.
The Standard
3

BB Dabo’s Party Says Barrow Gov’t Has Failed Gambians – The Standard Newspaper

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.
The Standard
4

Police Clarify The Nature Of Recent Alleged Murder Cases – The Standard Newspaper

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 Standard
5

Dr Barry Testifies In Economic Crime Trial Of Health Officials – The Standard Newspaper

Dr. Cherno Barry, former permanent secretary at the Ministry of Health and current deputy head of the Senegalo-Gambia Permanent Secretariat, testified in the economic crimes trial of three health officials in The Gambia. The accused, PS Muhammadou Lamin Jaiteh, Balla Kandeh, and Omar Malleh Ceesay, face 18 charges including economic crimes, forgery, corruption, and theft related to the Gates Foundation-funded Global Fund's national malaria control program. The case is set to continue on March 5.
The Standard
6

Activist Claims Spain Will Take Only 50 Labourers From Gambia For Now – The Standard Newspaper

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 Standard
7

Minister Says GPPA Rules, Unreliable Contractors Responsible For Inadequate Supply Of Drugs – The Standard Newspaper

Health Minister Dr Ahmadou Samateh has highlighted the issues affecting the supply of drugs in The Gambia's health facilities, citing GPPA procurement methods and unreliable suppliers as the main problems. He revealed that all drugs and medical consumables used in the country are imported, but many suppliers, mainly Gambians, have failed to deliver as per their contracts. Despite an increase in the health budget, only 30% of the national requirement for medicines can be covered, he added.
The Standard
8

Rights Centre Urges Barrow Not To Seek Third Term – The Standard Newspaper

The Edward Francis Small Centre (EFSCRJ) in The Gambia has urged President Adama Barrow to refrain from seeking a third term in office, following his recent announcement of intentions to run in the 2026 presidential election. The EFSCRJ, led by rights campaigner Madi Jobarteh, expressed concerns over potential political instability and corruption linked to prolonged presidential tenures. The organization reminded Barrow of his previous commitments to presidential term limits and democratic governance, and announced plans to campaign against his third term bid.
The Standard
9

Nominations In Massembeh Ward By-election Start Today – The Standard Newspaper

Nominations for the Massembeh Ward area council by-election in The Gambia open today, with candidates from the United Democratic Party and the National People's Party set to file their papers. The by-election was called following the death of Bakary Cheren Korita, who was elected on a UDP ticket. The ward includes the major settlements of Kolior, Jomari, and Massembeh.
The Standard
10

Gambia College Stages Mayor Bensouda Championship – The Standard Newspaper

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 Standard
11

U-17 STAR FRANCIS GOMEZ TO START TRIALS IN DENMARK – The Standard Newspaper

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 Standard
12

Well Done DLEAG And More Grease To Your Elbows! – The Standard Newspaper

The Gambia is facing a significant increase in drug trafficking, with the Drug Law Enforcement Agency of the Gambia (DLEAG) frequently intercepting illicit drug shipments. The government is urged to take stronger action to prevent the country from becoming a regional hub for drug trafficking, which could damage its reputation and economy. A comprehensive study is suggested to understand why traffickers are using the Gambian airport for drug transportation, and more stringent laws may be needed to support the fight against drugs.
The Standard
13

At Gambian Border, Women Abandon Rice Fields Amid Military Presence – Foroyaa Newspaper

Since 2017, the women of Bwiam, The Gambia, have abandoned their rice fields due to the presence of ECOMIG forces, despite the military insisting they pose no threat to the farmers. The lingering fear and discomfort stem from past threats and the ongoing presence of armed patrols near their homes. The military's presence in the region, a legacy of former President Yahya Jammeh's rule, continues to be a source of tension.
Foroyaa
14

Military Officer Testifies in High-Profile Money Laundering and Drug Case – Foroyaa Newspaper

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.
Foroyaa
15

SSHFC Completes Thousands of Affordable Housing Units – Foroyaa Newspaper

The Social Security and Housing Finance Corporation (SSHFC) in Gambia has completed over six thousand affordable housing units over the past 39 years, benefiting a similar number of people through its social protection services, according to its 2022 activity report. The report also highlighted a 12% growth in the Corporation's investment portfolio, from D5.92 billion in 2021 to D6.59 billion in 2022, and an 8.33% increase in the members' fund to D7.8 billion. The SSHFC has also established a new payment arrangement for the recovery of the D1.8 billion non-profit making state-owned enterprises and Gambia government loan portfolios.
Foroyaa
16

ARE THERE FRAUDSTERS POSING AS BUSINESS CONCERNS IN THE GAMBIA? – Foroyaa Newspaper

The Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry is advising foreign nationals interested in conducting business in The Gambia to seek their guidance to avoid fraudulent dealings. The Gambia's media outlets are urged to report on instances of fraud, specifically those involving the swift money transfer service, Wave, as part of a nationwide campaign to protect small businesses from financial collapse due to deceitful practices.
Foroyaa
17

IMPORTING OIL WHILE PRODUCING NUTS (OILSEEDS) – Foroyaa Newspaper

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.
Foroyaa
18

Envy Night Club Ambush: Paulo Djabi Hit With Fresh Charges – The Fatu Network

In one of the largest drug-related cases in The Gambia, alleged drug dealer Paulo Djabi is facing an expanded case with 21 charges, including multiple money laundering offenses. Djabi is accused of using illicit funds between 2021 and 2023 to purchase various vehicles and was arrested following an ambush at a nightclub where drugs were allegedly found in his possession. The trial, which includes testimonies from military officers about Djabi's links to an international drug network, continues on March 3, 2025.
Fatu Network
19

Jawara Says GACH’s Basalt Importation Reduces Skyrocketing Costs – The Fatu Network

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.
Fatu Network
20

Envy Night Club Ambush: Paulo Djabi Hit With Fresh Charges – The Fatu Network

In one of the largest drug-related cases in The Gambia, alleged drug dealer Paulo Djabi is facing additional charges as the State expands its case against him. Djabi, now charged with 21 counts, including multiple money laundering offenses, is accused of using illicit funds to purchase 13 vehicles, three motorbikes, and a jet ski between 2021 and 2023. The trial, which includes testimonies from military officers about Djabi's links to an international drug network, continues on March 3, 2025.
Fatu Network
21

Jawara Says GACH’s Basalt Importation Reduces Skyrocketing Costs – The Fatu Network

Dr. Abubacarr Jawara, CEO of Gambia, Africa, China Holding (GACH), has significantly reduced the cost of basalt in The Gambia by importing it directly from Ivory Coast, bypassing Senegal. This move has made basalt more accessible for construction projects in the country, saving both time and money for Gambians. Jawara also commended President Barrow's administration for creating an environment conducive to private investment.
Fatu Network
22

The Gambia JournalBAC Dissolves Tanji Village Development Committee Over Transparency and Governance Failures

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.
Gambia Journal
23

The Gambia JournalOfficer Testifies in Trial of Man Accused of Hammer Murder of British Woman

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.
Gambia Journal
24

The Gambia JournalEx-NDMA Coordinator Defends Use of COVID-19 Relief Funds Before Inquiry

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.
Gambia Journal
25

Bougane Guèye's High-Stakes Meeting With President Barrow: Investment Plans And Regional Implications – The Fatu Network

Senegalese businessman Bougane Guèye has revealed a $25 million investment plan in The Gambia, focusing on media, technology, and agribusiness sectors. The announcement was made during a meeting with President Barrow at the FOGECA economic forum, following a similar business model Guèye previously implemented in Côte d’Ivoire.
Fatu Network
26

Bougane Guèye's High-Stakes Meeting With President Barrow: Investment Plans And Regional Implications – The Fatu Network

Senegalese businessman Bougane Guèye has announced a $25 million investment plan in The Gambia, targeting media, technology, and agribusiness sectors. This follows a meeting with President Barrow and is in line with Guèye's business model previously implemented in Côte d’Ivoire.
Fatu Network
27

The Gambia JournalGovernment’s Decision to Feature Jammeh on Independence Billboards Sparks Controversy

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.
Gambia Journal