DLEAG Airport Command Arrests Gambian With 37 Blocks of Suspected Cocaine

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

Operatives of the Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG) stationed at the Banjul International Airport have arrested a 31-year-old Gambian national, Mr. Alieu Jeng of Nema Kunku, in connection with suspected drug trafficking.

The arrest took place on Friday, January 16, 2026, at about 20:00 hours, when officers intercepted the suspect while he was heading to the airside area of the airport to offload cargo. Acting on reasonable suspicion, DLEAG operatives conducted a search of the tractor under his control.

During the search, officers discovered 37 blocks of suspected cocaine concealed in two black suitcases and a school bag. Mr. Jeng was later identified as an employee of the NIRO Company.

The suspect is currently in DLEAG custody as investigations into the matter continue.

In a statement, the management of the Drug Law Enforcement Agency reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to combating drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking in The Gambia. The Agency also called on the public to continue supporting and collaborating with law enforcement authorities in the fight against drugs.

“Joshua Mendy’s Empty Rhetoric: Loud Claims, Zero Evidence Against President Barrow”

By Yaya Dampha

NPP Diaspora Coordinator

Joshua Mendy’s attack on President Adama Barrow is not only misleading but intellectually hollow. Labeling the President as “incompetent and clueless” without a shred of evidence exposes the weakness of his argument and the poverty of his political reasoning.

Serious political commentary requires facts, data, and policy comparisons — not loud declarations designed to excite social-media echo chambers. Mr. Mendy’s prediction that Gambians will vote President Barrow out in December 2026 is unsupported by any credible poll, survey, or empirical research. It is nothing more than wishful thinking disguised as analysis.

President Barrow’s Record vs Empty Rhetoric

Contrary to Mr. Mendy’s claims, President Adama Barrow leads with a clear record of delivery, not slogans.

Under his leadership, The Gambia has:

Restored democracy, rule of law, and civil liberties after 22 years of authoritarian rule.

Reintegrated into the international community, unlocking development financing and restoring global credibility.

Recorded sustained economic growth, improved public finance management, and increased infrastructure investment.

Delivered nationwide road networks, schools, hospitals, electricity, and clean water projects that directly impact citizens’ daily lives.

Expanded access to education, healthcare, women empowerment funds, youth employment programs, and agricultural support.

Established key national reform institutions, including the TRRC, strengthening accountability and reconciliation.

These are measurable outcomes visible across the country — not theoretical promises.

The Myth of Ousainou Darboe’s “Superior Competence”

Joshua Mendy presents Lawyer Ousainou Darboe as a credible alternative based almost entirely on longevity in politics. But time spent in politics is not the same as achievement in governance.

In truth, the only clear constitutional or administrative achievement Darboe can legitimately boast of while in government was the scrapping of the 65-year age limit, a constitutional provision that prevented him from becoming Vice President and contesting for president. That amendment served personal political ambition, not national transformation.

Equally revealing is the hypocrisy surrounding electoral reform. The UDP loudly demanded electoral reforms during Yahya Jammeh’s dictatorship, yet failed to implement those same reforms when they controlled the National Assembly after 2017. Why? Because they were illusionally confident they would win the 2021 election without reforming the system. That arrogance cost them politically — and exposed a lack of strategic foresight.

During Darboe’s tenure as Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gambians saw no landmark policy reforms, no transformative diplomatic achievements, and no development breakthroughs that justify portraying him as a superior governing alternative.

Gambians Are More Informed Than Mendy Thinks

The Gambian electorate is not naïve. Voters no longer buy political mythology or recycled opposition talking points. They judge leadership by results — roads built, services delivered, freedoms protected, and opportunities created.

President Barrow’s support is grounded in performance and national reach, not nostalgia or personality cults. The NPP remains the most nationally rooted political movement in the country, drawing support across regions, ethnicities, and generations.

Conclusion

Joshua Mendy’s commentary reflects political bias, not serious analysis. If he believes President Barrow lacks leadership or vision, he must present facts, comparative data, and policy evidence — not insults and speculative election outcomes.

The 2026 election will not be decided on Facebook noise or recycled opposition arrogance. It will be decided by Gambians comparing delivery against failure, governance against guesswork, and proven leadership against political entitlement.

President Adama Barrow has a record. His critics have rhetoric. Gambians will decide accordingly.

Editorial: FAKE WEALTH, REAL PRISON TIME. Diaspora Deception Ends in Conviction Over Forged Cash

When fake money is used to impress, the result isn’t admiration—it’s a criminal record.

The Gambian diaspora must understand a simple truth: there is no real-life competition that justifies living a false lifestyle—least of all one that involves carrying forged bank notes. Beyond damaging the Gambian economy, the consequences are severe. The risk of arrest, conviction, and imprisonment is real and high.

That reality came sharply into focus as the Gambia Police Force secured the conviction of Cherno Abdourahman Mendy and Yaya Mendy for purchasing forged bank notes.

The case, Inspector General of Police v. Cherno Abdourahman Mendy and Yaya Mendy, was heard at the Bundung Magistrates’ Court before His Worship Magistrate I. Dibba. Both accused persons are Gambian nationals resident in the United Kingdom.

They were charged with one count of purchasing forged bank notes, contrary to Section 312(b) of the Criminal Offences Act, 2025.

The prosecution team—Assistant Superintendent of Police L. Badjie and Inspector B. Jarjue—presented the facts of the case and tendered exhibits, all of which were admitted into evidence by the court.

At the conclusion of the trial, the court found both accused persons guilty as charged and sentenced each of them to

A fine of One Hundred Thousand Dalasis (D100,000), or two (2) years’ imprisonment in default; and

Payment of Four Hundred and Fifty Thousand Dalasis (D450,000) as compensation to eight (8) complainants, or two (2) years’ imprisonment in default.

The court further ordered that all recovered forged bank notes be forfeited to the State and destroyed by the Central Bank of The Gambia.

The Gambia Police Force has once again reaffirmed its commitment to combating financial crimes and protecting the integrity of the nation’s financial system.

€33,500 ‘AFCON Miracle’ Collapses: Self-Styled Marabout Arrested After Mali’s Exit

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

A man who allegedly promised to secure Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) success for Mali in exchange for cash has been arrested following the national team’s quarter-final elimination, in a case that has sparked widespread public outrage.

The suspect, identified as Mr Sinayogo, presented himself as a marabout — a traditional spiritual healer — and claimed he could guarantee victory for the Malian national team. In return, he reportedly collected more than 22 million CFA francs (approximately €33,500) from supporters eager to see Mali lift the continental trophy.

Those hopes were dashed on Friday night when the Eagles were narrowly defeated 1–0 by arch-rivals Senegal, ending their AFCON campaign. The promised triumph failed to materialise, triggering anger among contributors who felt deceived.

Tensions escalated the following day when a crowd gathered outside Sinayogo’s residence in Bamako, demanding explanations and refunds. The situation became increasingly volatile, prompting riot police to intervene and escort him away for his safety.

Shortly afterwards, authorities placed Sinayogo under arrest on suspicion of fraud. He is currently being held by Mali’s Cybercrime Division, highlighting how digital platforms may have been used to solicit funds and promote his claims.

“Charlatanism is an offence under Malian law,” a police official told AFP, confirming the basis of the charges. The official added that making an arrest during the height of the AFCON tournament would have posed significant practical and public-order challenges.

Investigators are now examining Sinayogo’s background, with sources indicating he was previously known as a political activist before abruptly adopting the identity of a spiritual practitioner.

“He declared himself a marabout almost overnight and amassed a considerable sum,” said a social media content creator familiar with the case, suggesting the move was driven by opportunism.

The incident underscores the powerful intersection of football passion, cultural belief and public vulnerability. As Mali reflects on its AFCON disappointment, the country is also confronting a deeper issue — the cost of misplaced trust, counted not in goals conceded, but in money lost.

From Bush to Boom: Why the Brufut “Dubai” Comment Should Inspire, Not Divide

By Yaya Dampha

NPP Diaspora Coordinator

In Support of President Adama Barrow

President Adama Barrow’s recent description of Brufut as “Dubai” has ignited intense public debate. Predictably, the comment was seized upon by critics and reduced to mockery. Yet beyond the noise and political sarcasm lies a deeper truth that deserves serious reflection: the President was speaking in metaphor, highlighting progress, possibility, and the power of development-driven leadership.

A generation ago, Brufut was largely bushland with scattered compounds. Only a few years ago, travelling to Brufut was itself a struggle. The roads were riddled with potholes to the extent that many taxi drivers refused to go there unless passengers paid exorbitant fares. There were no streetlights, no pavements, and movement—especially at night—was difficult and unsafe. Today, those conditions are history. Brufut now boasts improved road networks, street lighting, walkways, modern housing, utilities, schools, and growing commercial activity. These changes are visible, tangible, and undeniable. Political disagreement cannot erase physical development.

Dubai is often referenced globally not because other nations seek to copy it wholesale, but because it represents what focused vision, planning, and disciplined execution can achieve within a relatively short time. That was the essence of President Barrow’s comparison. It was not a claim of equivalence, but a statement of ambition—a reminder that transformation is possible when development is prioritised.

Unfortunately, Gambian politics too often rewards outrage over substance. Instead of engaging with the broader message about infrastructure, planning, and national ambition, some critics chose literal interpretations and partisan ridicule. This exposes a deeper weakness in our political culture: we are more energised by election drama than by development outcomes. We argue endlessly about personalities, yet lose interest when discussions turn to healthcare, education, energy, or long-term infrastructure.

History teaches us that successful nations are built when leaders think beyond election cycles. Dubai’s transformation was driven by long-term planning and competence, not constant political agitation. Leadership of that kind focuses on the next generation, not the next rally. That is the lesson President Barrow was invoking.

Today, many Gambian elites travel abroad for medical treatment while our own hospitals struggle with limited resources. We demand express highways, modern universities, and world-class services, yet often resist the bold thinking and comparisons that inspire progress. A modern nation cannot be built with 19th-century political habits.

The real divide in Gambian politics is not between political parties, nor between so-called “progressives” and “regressives.” It is between those committed to nation-building and those consumed by perpetual campaigning. President Adama Barrow’s development-focused leadership—centred on infrastructure, stability, and gradual transformation—deserves to be evaluated fairly and honestly, not distorted for political gain.

The Gambia does not need to become Dubai or Singapore. It needs to become a confident, competent, and forward-looking version of itself. That means world-class hospitals instead of medical tourism, modern campuses instead of overcrowded classrooms, durable highways instead of temporary repairs, and an economy driven by productivity rather than dependency.

Whether Brufut looks like Dubai is beside the point. What matters is that progress is happening and that a vision for more exists. If we rise above petty outrage and embrace development politics, metaphors will no longer offend us—they will inspire us.

President Adama Barrow’s words should challenge us to think bigger, plan better, and argue less. Nation-building demands nothing less.

NPP Diaspora Coordinator Congratulates President Barrow on By-Election Victories

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

The National People’s Party (NPP) has recorded significant victories in the recently concluded by-elections in Kiang Kaiaf and Foni Bantanjang Wards, further consolidating the party’s growing grassroots strength across the country.

In Kiang Kaiaf Ward, NPP candidate Omar Touray defeated the United Democratic Party (UDP) candidate Sulayman Sanneh after securing 1,127 votes against UDP’s 895, winning by a margin of 232 votes. Meanwhile, in Foni Bantanjang Ward, NPP’s Abdoulie Badjie emerged victorious in a closely contested race with 402 votes, narrowly edging out APRC No to Alliance candidate Bakary M. Manga, who polled 401 votes. Independent candidate Alhagie Njie secured 155 votes.

Reacting to the outcome, the NPP Diaspora Coordinator and Head of Media, Mr. Yaya Dampha, has extended warm congratulations to His Excellency President Adama Barrow and the entire NPP leadership for what he described as “well-deserved and meaningful victories.”

According to Mr. Dampha, the twin wins are a clear demonstration of President Barrow’s development-oriented leadership and the positive impact of government projects on the lives of ordinary Gambians.

“These victories reflect the confidence Gambians continue to place in President Adama Barrow and the National People’s Party. They are a direct endorsement of the government’s development agenda and its visible impact at community level,” he said.

Mr. Dampha further noted that the by-election results send a strong political message ahead of the 2026 presidential election, stressing that the NPP remains firmly rooted at the grassroots and increasingly popular nationwide.

“The outcome of these elections serves as a clear signal to opposition parties that the NPP, under the leadership of President Barrow, is well-positioned for an outright victory in the December 2026 presidential election,” he added.

He concluded by wishing President Barrow continued success and strength as he leads the country, while reaffirming the commitment of the NPP Diaspora to support the party’s vision for peace, stability, and national development.

The victories in Kiang Kaiaf and Foni Bantanjang further strengthen the NPP’s growing political influence and underline its expanding support base across The Gambia.

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

Authorities intensify operations as perilous illegal migration routes claim more lives

The growing menace of illegal migration through dangerous sea routes has once again come under the spotlight, as the Government of The Gambia intensifies efforts to curb the so-called “backway” journey to Europe—a voyage that has cost countless lives in the treacherous Atlantic waters.

The Government of The Gambia has expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in the number of people attempting to migrate illegally to Europe by sea, using the country as a launch point. In response, special operation teams under the Ministry of Interior have been activated to decisively tackle the situation.

Through coordinated, intelligence-led enforcement operations, the Gambia Immigration Department, in collaboration with the Gambia Police Force, targeted identified hotspot areas across the country. These operations led to the interception of 782 intending migrants and the arrest of four suspected organisers believed to be involved in human trafficking and migrant smuggling.

The intercepted migrants comprise nationals from several West African countries, including 233 Senegalese, 197 Gambians, 176 Guineans, 148 Malians, 16 Ivorians, six Nigerians, two Mauritanians, and one each from Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, and Ghana.

Authorities have commended the vigilance and cooperation of members of the public whose timely information played a crucial role in the successful interceptions. The Ministry of Interior noted that this level of civic responsibility demonstrates a strong national spirit and collective resolve to confront emerging social challenges and criminal networks that prey on vulnerable individuals.

Meanwhile, rescue and investigation efforts continue following the tragic boat capsizing incident of 1 January 2026. Authorities say work is ongoing to account for all those involved and to provide support to affected families, as the nation mourns yet another painful reminder of the deadly risks associated with illegal sea migration.

The Ministry, however, strongly condemned the indiscriminate circulation of graphic images of deceased victims without the consent of their families, describing the act as insensitive and inhumane. Both the media and the public have been warned to immediately desist from such practices.

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and safeguarding national security, the Government praised the dedication of security forces on the frontline and reiterated its resolve to dismantle illegal migration networks. The public has once again been urged to remain alert and promptly report any suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.

As the crackdown continues, authorities stress that no dream of a better life is worth the deadly gamble of the backway journey—a path increasingly marked by tragedy, loss, and heartbreak.

Finance Minister Applauds GRA’s Strong 2025 Performance Ahead of 2026 Targets

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

As the country prepares to enter 2026, the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Honourable Seedy K.M. Keita, has lauded the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) for what he described as an exceptional performance throughout 2025.

The Minister made these remarks during a courtesy visit to the GRA headquarters in Banjul, where he held discussions with the Commissioner General, Yankuba Darboe, and members of the Authority’s senior management team.

According to the Minister, the visit was intended to personally convey his appreciation to the GRA staff, following an earlier letter in which he formally commended the institution for its achievements. He noted that beyond written correspondence, it was important to acknowledge the workforce in person for their collective efforts.

Hon. Keita praised the GRA’s steady institutional growth, describing it as an organisation whose reputation now extends beyond national borders. He said the Authority’s achievements place it among leading revenue institutions in the sub-region and reflect its emergence as a centre of excellence in public revenue administration.

He further highlighted the importance of teamwork and inclusivity, stressing that every member of staff plays a vital role in the Authority’s success. The Minister encouraged employees at all levels to remain committed and to build on the progress already made as the country looks ahead to 2026.

In his response, Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe welcomed the Minister’s visit and expressed gratitude for the recognition accorded to the Authority. He assured the Minister of GRA’s continued dedication to meeting and exceeding its revenue targets in the coming year.

Also speaking during the visit, the Chairman of the GRA Board, Mr Dawda M.E. Ndure, commended the Minister’s leadership approach, noting that his gesture of appreciation had significantly boosted staff morale.

The Gambia Revenue Authority operates under the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs and is mandated to mobilise domestic revenue through tax and customs administration. Its performance remains critical to government financing, economic stability, and the achievement of national development objectives.

Operation "Storm Watch,” Police Arrested Over 200 In Jinack

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

Following President Adama Barrow’s declaration that illegal migration in The Gambia will no longer be treated as “business as usual,” security forces have intensified operations to curb the practice and hold both migrants and smugglers accountable. The government says the tougher stance is aimed at reducing irregular migration and preventing the tragic loss of lives at sea, where hundreds of young men, women and children—many from the subregion—have perished in recent years.

In line with this directive, the Gambia Police Force, through the Police Intervention Unit (PIU) in the North Bank Region (NBR), carried out a major early-morning operation on Tuesday, January 6, 2025, targeting suspected irregular migration activities in the Jinack area.

The operation, code-named “Storm Watch,” commenced at around 05:00 hours and involved PIU officers from Kerewan under the leadership of their commander. The team conducted coordinated raids, searches and arrests at identified locations believed to be linked to the facilitation of irregular migration and unlawful departure attempts.

As a result of the operation, more than 200 individuals suspected of involvement in irregular migration were arrested and evacuated from the Jinacks. They are currently undergoing screening and processing at the Barra GID and Essau Model Police Station, in collaboration with immigration and other relevant security authorities.

Police authorities said the success of the operation was bolstered by the cooperation of community members from Kajata village, particularly Jinack Nigi, whose support helped officers secure key locations and ensure an orderly process.

According to the Gambia Police Force, the operation forms part of sustained, intelligence-led efforts to dismantle irregular migration networks, prevent dangerous journeys and safeguard lives.

The police have commended the communities in the Jinacks for their cooperation and reiterated that community partnership remains central to the fight against irregular migration. Members of the public are urged to continue supporting security efforts by reporting suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station or by calling 9968885.

The Rule of Law Must Prevail Over Emotion

By Yaya Dampha, NPP Diaspora Coordinator

There is no doubt that many Gambians sympathize with Mr. Abdoulie Sanyang. His ill health is a matter of genuine concern, and his past contributions to the struggle against dictatorship in The Gambia are well known and widely acknowledged. Compassion, however, must never eclipse the supremacy of the Constitution. A nation governed by law cannot substitute justice with sentiment, no matter how compelling the circumstances may be.

Recent calls on President Adama Barrow to pardon and release Mr. Sanyang before the conclusion of his trial are not only misguided; they are unconstitutional and unlawful.

Presidential Pardon Applies Only After Conviction

The Gambian Constitution is unequivocal on this matter. Under Section 126 of the 2019 Draft Constitution—mirroring provisions in the 1997 Constitution—the President may grant a pardon, respite, or remission of punishment only to a person who has been convicted of an offence, typically after consultation with the Prerogative of Mercy Committee.

There is no ambiguity here. A presidential pardon applies solely to a convicted person. The President cannot pardon an individual whose trial is ongoing. Moreover, a pardon does not erase guilt; it merely forgives or reduces punishment after a court of law has rendered its judgment.

Any demand for a presidential pardon prior to conviction therefore has no constitutional basis. It is not an act of mercy; it is executive interference in the judicial process.

Discontinuation of Trials Is Not a Presidential Power

Equally important is the issue of discontinuing criminal proceedings. The Constitution clearly assigns this authority to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), subject to the approval of the Attorney General. The DPP may discontinue proceedings at any stage before judgment.

The President has no constitutional authority to unilaterally halt or withdraw a case before the courts. Suggestions that the President should “order” Mr. Sanyang’s release or terminate his trial either misunderstand—or deliberately ignore—the principle of separation of powers enshrined in our Constitution.

Separation of Powers Is Fundamental

The judiciary exists precisely to prevent executive overreach. Courts determine guilt or innocence; the executive does not. A presidential pardon is not a substitute for a trial, nor was it ever intended as a political tool to bypass the courts. Allowing such a practice would drag The Gambia back to the authoritarian past that many citizens sacrificed so much to overcome.

The law is clear:

A pardon after conviction: constitutionally permitted and exercised by the President.

A pardon before conviction: constitutionally prohibited.

Discontinuation of a trial: within the powers of the DPP, with Attorney General approval.

Stopping a trial by executive order: constitutionally impermissible.

The Lawful Path Forward

If Gambians are genuinely concerned about Mr. Sanyang’s health and welfare, the responsible and lawful course of action is clear. The courts should be urged to expedite the trial so that justice is neither delayed nor denied. The judiciary must be allowed to determine guilt or innocence without pressure or interference. If—and only if—Mr. Sanyang is convicted, constitutional avenues for a presidential pardon may then be properly pursued.

This approach respects the Constitution, upholds the rule of law, preserves the separation of powers, and honors the democratic values that Mr. Sanyang himself once championed.

Conclusion

The President of The Gambia cannot lawfully pardon, release, or discontinue the trial of an individual whose case is still before the courts. Any demand to the contrary is not a call for justice; it is a call for constitutional violation.

True democracy is not tested when the law is convenient. It is tested when the law must be upheld despite sympathy, pressure, and emotion. Let justice take its course. Let the courts do their work. And let mercy follow the law—not replace it.

Falana Urges U.S. Congress to Sanction Trump Over Alleged Venezuela Invasion

By JarranewsTV Staff Reporter

January 4, 2026

Nigerian human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr. Femi Falana, has accused former United States President Donald Trump of committing grave violations of international law, calling on the U.S. Congress to impose sanctions over what he described as an illegal invasion of Venezuela.

Falana also urged the United States judiciary to resist what he termed an attempt by Mr. Trump to use domestic courts to undermine the sovereignty of Venezuela and the rights of its people as protected under international law.

In a statement reacting to reports of U.S. military action in Caracas, Falana alleged that American forces bombed the Venezuelan capital, overthrew President Nicolás Maduro’s government, killed scores of unarmed civilians, and moved to seize the country’s oil resources.

According to him, the Venezuela operation represents a continuation of what he described as “reckless gangsterism” during Mr. Trump’s second term in office, characterised by military actions allegedly carried out without the approval of the U.S. Congress.

“In his second term in office, the United States President, Mr. Donald Trump, has repeatedly engaged in reckless gangsterism. A few months ago, he bombed Iran without congressional approval,” Falana said.

He further recalled that in November 2025, Mr. Trump allegedly threatened military action against Nigeria over claims of a so-called Christian genocide.

Falana also referenced an announcement made by Mr. Trump on December 25, 2025, in which he claimed to have launched “powerful and deadly” strikes against militants allegedly linked to the Islamic State (IS) group in north-western Nigeria, again without congressional authorisation.

“Once again, he did not secure congressional approval,” Falana stated.

The human rights lawyer said the situation worsened with reports of the bombing of Caracas and the alleged overthrow of the Venezuelan government. He further claimed that following the invasion, Mr. Trump announced the capture of a foreign head of state and his wife, who were reportedly charged with terrorism and narcotics offences in a U.S. District Court.

“The abduction and extraordinary rendition of a sitting president of a sovereign state is indeed a blatant violation of international law,” Falana said, adding that the response of the international community exposed “glaring hypocrisy and double standards.”

Beyond the military action, Falana accused the Trump administration of attempting to install a transition regime in Venezuela with the sole aim of controlling the country’s vast oil and gas resources, effectively turning it into “a new colony of the United States.”

While acknowledging ideological differences between the United States and the Maduro administration, Falana maintained that such disagreements do not justify external military intervention or regime change.

“Notwithstanding ideological differences with the Maduro administration, the United States Congress should sanction Mr. Trump for the illegal invasion of Venezuela,” he said.

He also called on the U.S. judiciary to reject what he described as efforts to use domestic courts to subvert Venezuela’s sovereignty.

Falana concluded by urging the United Nations to take decisive action, warning that silence in the face of such alleged violations would erode the credibility of the global body.

“The UN must stand with the people of Venezuela and demand justice and accountability for the fundamental breach of the United Nations Charter if it is to uphold the letter and spirit of the Charter,” he said.

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.