Journalism in The Gambia On Life Support

From Watchdogs to Publicists: The Collapse of Gambian Journalism; Alagi Yorro Jallow

Fatoumatta: The lifeblood of any democracy lies in its media—a press that informs, educates, and holds power to account. In The Gambia, this lifeblood is critically endangered. Journalism, once a beacon of truth and accountability, stands on the precipice of irrelevance. Online media platforms have forsaken Gambian stories and priorities, leaving citizens adrift and democracy vulnerable. If journalism in The Gambia is not restored to its rightful role, the nation risks losing the very foundation of its democratic governance. Journalism in The Gambia is not just struggling; it is on life support. The shift to online platforms has brought with it a collapse in ethical standards. Many outlets now recycle content from Senegalese newspapers or irrelevant sources, neglecting critical Gambian issues and failing to hold the government accountable. The core principles of journalism—informing, educating, and entertaining the public—have been abandoned. Instead, these platforms have morphed into public relations machines for politicians and celebrities. Gambian stories are overshadowed by an overwhelming focus on Senegalese news, particularly figures like Ousmane Sonko and other key officials. This disproportionate coverage of Senegalese affairs raises serious concerns. While Senegal boasts over 300 newspapers and radio stations that rarely cover Gambian issues, Gambian media inexplicably prioritizes Senegal over its own pressing matters. This imbalance prompts questions about potential affiliations and external influences, particularly with organizations like Pastef. Gambian journalists must ask themselves: why act as propagandists for foreign political figures while neglecting their own nation’s needs?

The integrity of a democracy hinges on the strength of an independent press. In The Gambia, where freedom of expression is constitutionally guaranteed, the media has a responsibility to prioritize Gambian issues, especially with elections on the horizon. Local journalism is not just a public service; it is a democratic necessity. It bridges community divides, amplifies diverse voices, and clarifies how policies impact citizens' lives. It fosters political engagement, disseminates critical information during crises, and cultivates a strong local identity. The stakes for local journalism in The Gambia have never been higher. Without a revitalized press, the nation risks deepening political divides, eroding government accountability, and undermining democratic values. The decline of local news is insidious, fostering polarization, reducing voter turnout, and weakening the very fabric of democracy. Local journalism is not just important; it is indispensable. It empowers communities to understand the significance of local elections, encourages civic engagement, and ensures public officials are held accountable. Moreover, the lack of professional training among many editors and journalists in Gambian online media is a glaring issue. Many of these individuals are not trained journalists but proofreaders who have been invited into newsrooms without the necessary skills or ethical grounding. This lack of professionalism further erodes the quality of reporting and undermines public trust in the media. The Gambian media must also reflect on the disparity in coverage. How much attention does Senegalese media give to Gambian issues? The answer is stark: virtually none. Yet Gambian outlets devote significant resources to covering Senegalese affairs, particularly since the new government came to power last year. This raises serious questions about priorities and motives. Gambian journalists must realign their focus, ensuring that their reporting serves the interests of Gambians, not foreign political agendas. The future of democracy in The Gambia hangs in the balance. Without immediate efforts to restore the integrity of local journalism, the nation faces a chilling reality—a democracy without a voice. Fatoumatta: A democracy without a voice is a nation lost. Gambian journalists must rise above mediocrity, prioritizing Gambian narratives over foreign agendas. The future demands ethical, professional, and independent reporting to serve the people of this country. Anything less condemns The Gambia to an era where voices of accountability are replaced by echoes of external propaganda. The urgency is clear: journalism must reclaim its role as democracy's trusted ally. The moment to act is now—before the light of democracy fades into silence.