Barrow for 2026,” We say it with Confidence, Evidence, and Conviction

By Yaya Dampha

NPP Diaspora Coordinator

Fellow Gambians at home and abroad,

As we step into a new year filled with hope, promise, and renewed determination, it is only fitting that we pause to reflect on how far our beloved nation has come under the leadership of President Adama Barrow—and, more importantly, where we are headed together as one people with one destiny.

Since January 2017, President Barrow has presided over a historic turning point in The Gambia’s journey. He restored what no project can be priced to buy: freedom, peace, and democratic governance. These priceless foundations have allowed development to take root across every sector of our economy and society.

Guided first by the National Development Plan (NDP) 2018–2021, and now by the forward-looking Recovery-Focused National Development Plan (RF-NDP) 2023–2027, “YIRIWAA”, President Barrow has provided a clear national vision—one that is planned, monitored, and accountable. Development under this administration is not accidental; it is deliberate and strategic.

Across the length and breadth of our country, roads, bridges, and connectivity are redefining national integration. From the transformative URR Roads and Bridges Project, to the OIC Roads, the ongoing nationwide road expansion, and the landmark Hakalang Road, rural communities are no longer cut off from opportunity. These roads are not just asphalt; they are pathways to markets, schools, hospitals, and national unity.

In the energy and water sector, President Barrow confronted decades-old challenges head-on. Through the Electricity Restoration and Modernisation Project, the OMVG regional interconnection, grid densification, and the 23MW Jambur Solar Power Plant, The Gambia is steadily building a reliable, diversified, and green energy future. The launch of the Greater Banjul Area Water Supply Project (WASIB) further demonstrates a commitment to dignity, public health, and urban resilience.

The health sector stands as a testament to leadership in times of crisis and beyond. From the decisive COVID-19 Preparedness and Response, to the renovation of EFSTH, the construction of the 1500-bed National Treatment Centre in Farato, expanded diagnostic services, strengthened laboratories, and new health facilities across rural Gambia—healthcare delivery has been fundamentally strengthened so that no Gambian is left behind.

Education and skills development remain at the heart of President Barrow’s human capital agenda. Scholarships for UTG excellence, Islamic higher learning, the National TVET Policy, Ndemban Skills Centre, RISE Project, SIE Fund, Zero Out-of-School Children Initiative, curriculum reform, student loans, and the ultra-modern UTG Faraba Banta Campus all point to one truth: this administration is investing in the future of Gambian youth.

In agriculture, the backbone of our economy, the President has moved beyond subsistence to transformation. Through NAIP II, rice and horticulture value chains, ROOTS, climate-smart agriculture, mechanisation, youth agribusiness programmes, and fertiliser subsidies, food security and farmer incomes are being strengthened with resilience and sustainability in mind.

Tourism—our window to the world—has rebounded strongly with post-COVID recovery plans, diversification, eco-tourism, MSME support, licensing reforms, and investment promotion. At the same time, youth and sports, entrepreneurship and trade, social protection, and security sector reform have all benefited from coherent policies, financing mechanisms, and institutional reforms that empower citizens and protect the state.

From NAFA cash transfers to MSME financing, from youth revolving funds to women enterprise support, President Barrow’s development agenda is inclusive, people-centred, and pro-poor.

Fellow Gambians, this record speaks for itself. And this is only some of what has been achieved.

That is why, when we say “Barrow for 2026,” we say it with confidence, evidence, and conviction. Continuity is not a slogan—it is a necessity. The foundations have been laid. The systems are working. The vision is clear.

Let us move into this new year united, hopeful, and resolute in our support for a leader who has delivered peace, stability, and development—and who is best positioned to take The Gambia even further.

May the New Year bring progress, prosperity, and peace to our nation.

May God bless President Adama Barrow.

May God bless the Republic of The Gambia.

Tears and Tributes as GFF Celebrates Dedicated Finance Boss Kemo Ceesay

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

Banjul — The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) has bid farewell to its long-serving Finance Director, Mr. Kemo Ceesay, following a formal send-off ceremony held in his honor. His tenure officially ends on December 31, 2025.

The ceremony, chaired by GFF President Lamin Kaba Bajo, brought together members of the Executive Committee and staff of Football House. Mr. Ceesay was applauded for more than two decades of committed service to Gambian football. He was presented with a certificate of service along with a token of appreciation as a gesture of gratitude for his remarkable contribution.

President Bajo hailed Ceesay as an exemplary and selfless leader who has played a vital role in the growth of football in the country. He described the moment as both emotional and proud, highlighting Ceesay’s loyalty, dedication, and willingness to always defend his team. Despite stepping down from his role at the federation, President Bajo noted that Ceesay’s journey in football will continue, particularly through his involvement with the Gambian Dutch Lions and their newly established sports complex in Faraba Banta.

Reflecting on his years of service, an emotional Mr. Ceesay expressed deep appreciation to the GFF leadership and staff, acknowledging their trust and support. He extended gratitude to past GFF presidents and paid special tribute to President Bajo for his leadership, humility, and support throughout his career, including opportunities for professional development and spiritual fulfillment.

Several speakers, including Executive Committee Member Arret Njie Jah, General Secretary Lamin M. Jassey, Technical Director Sang Ndong, Finance Officer Alagie Dawda Barrow, and Communications Director Baboucarr Camara, also paid glowing tribute to Ceesay. They praised his professionalism, humility, integrity, and team spirit, recounting their positive experiences working alongside him and recognizing his outstanding service to Gambian football.

The ceremony concluded with heartfelt applause, marking the end of an era for one of GFF’s most respected administrators.