CG Yankuba Darboe and His Visionary Team Leading GRA to New Heights

Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe and His Visionary Team Leading GRA to New Heights In a compelling display of leadership and innovation, Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe and his dynamic team at the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) continue to set a bold new standard for revenue administration in The Gambia. At a recent high-level engagement, CG Darboe reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to enhancing tax compliance, modernizing operations, and strengthening stakeholder collaboration. His remarks underscored a results-driven vision focused on national development, transparency, and service excellence.

Flanked by top officials from the GRA, including key directors and technical staff, CG Darboe highlighted the Authority’s strategic reforms aimed at making revenue collection more efficient and taxpayer-friendly. These efforts have already begun yielding significant dividends, with record revenue mobilization and increased public trust in the GRA’s mandate. Under his leadership, the GRA has embraced digital transformation, enhanced staff capacity, and fostered strong partnerships with both local and international institutions. The Commissioner General’s forward-thinking approach continues to inspire confidence among taxpayers, development partners, and government stakeholders alike. As the face of a progressive, accountable, and service-oriented institution, Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe and his team are not just managing revenue—they are building the financial backbone of a brighter future for The Gambia.

Dr. Lang Fafa Dampha Calls for Legal Reform to Strengthen China-Africa Trade Ties

In a powerful address at the Fifth China-Africa Cooperation Legal Forum (FOCAC), Dr. Lang Fafa Dampha, Executive Director of the Pan-African Centre for Cultures and Languages (PACCL), called for urgent reforms in the legal frameworks governing China-Africa economic relations. He stressed that overhauling current dispute resolution mechanisms is vital to securing the future of the burgeoning trade partnership—now valued at more than $250 billion annually. Speaking in Changsha, China, Dr. Dampha warned that the rapid expansion of trade, investment, and infrastructure projects between China and African nations will inevitably lead to an increase in commercial disputes. “Disputes are a natural consequence of complex and growing trade relationships,” he said. “The focus should not be on their elimination, but on managing them fairly, efficiently, and accessibly.” The legal forum, held on July 11–12, was hosted by the China Law Society in partnership with Xiangtan University, the Human Law Society, and the China Legal Exchange Centre. This year’s theme—Building Trust, Managing Risk, and Ensuring Long-Term Sustainability—set the stage for Dr. Dampha’s appeal for systemic legal reform. He outlined major barriers to effective dispute resolution: legal uncertainty, difficulties enforcing foreign judgments and international arbitration awards, a shortage of professionals trained in international commercial law, and procedural delays. He also cited challenges stemming from divergent legal traditions (common law, civil law, and customary law), language barriers, and conflicting cultural expectations. “These issues call for more than procedural tweaks—they demand coordinated reform,” Dr. Dampha asserted. He proposed a five-pronged strategy to build a robust, culturally responsive legal infrastructure: 1. Establish regional dispute resolution hubs in key African trade centers—such as Nairobi, Lagos, Johannesburg, Kinshasa, and Cairo—that combine local legal knowledge with internationally recognised standards. 2. Launch specialised training programmes for judges, lawyers, and arbitrators focused on China-Africa commercial disputes. 3. Promote legal harmonisation by encouraging the adoption of UNCITRAL model laws and securing universal ratification of the New York Convention across African jurisdictions. 4. Leverage technology, including Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) platforms, to improve access and reduce costs. 5. Integrate hybrid and culturally sensitive mechanisms, such as mediation followed by arbitration, and respect traditional dispute resolution practices where appropriate. Dr. Dampha emphasised that success hinges on strong political will and institutional collaboration. He urged African institutions—including the African Union, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, and Regional Economic Communities—to lead the charge in harmonising legal systems and cross-border enforcement. He also called on China to take an active role: “China can play a key part by funding infrastructure, supporting capacity building, and co-establishing dispute resolution centers that reflect African legal traditions and languages.” Describing legal reform as a “strategic investment in legal infrastructure,” Dr. Dampha argued that a modern, accessible, and trusted dispute resolution system is fundamental to long-term economic stability and investor confidence. “With a blend of international best practices, regional innovation, and shared political commitment,” he concluded, “Africa and China can build a legal foundation strong enough to support a thriving and equitable economic partnership.” Dr. Dampha’s remarks resonated with delegates from across the continent and China, as both sides acknowledged the growing importance of legal cooperation in shaping the future of China-Africa relations.

Editorial | JarraNewsTV Defending Integrity: Mrs. Anna Jarju Deserves Our Respect, Not Ridicule

In a time when accountability and professionalism in public service are in short supply, Mrs. Anna Jarju of the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) stood tall — only to become the target of unjust attacks. Following a now-publicized incident involving international footballer Musa Barrow at Banjul International Airport on July 11, 2025, certain social media users and unprincipled media outlets have launched a smear campaign against this dedicated public servant. Let’s be clear: Mrs. Jarju did her job. She followed procedure. She upheld the law. According to an official statement from the GRA, Mr. Barrow arrived in Banjul on a Turkish Airlines flight with five suitcases, all of which were flagged during standard customs screening. Instead of personally cooperating with customs officers — as is expected of every traveler, regardless of their status — Mr. Barrow delegated the task to his brother and others, and refused multiple requests to come forward for inspection. His representatives failed to produce proper documentation for the contents of the luggage, leading to the imposition of customs duties which were later reduced after internal discussions. Throughout this incident, Mrs. Anna Jarju — the GRA Shift Supervisor — conducted herself with integrity and professionalism. Contrary to false reports, she was not present during the initial scanning, and when approached later, she acted in full compliance with established protocols. CCTV footage with audio, reviewed by GRA authorities, confirms this. Yet, despite her measured conduct, she has become a punching bag for online commentators and gossip-hungry media houses that seem more interested in clicks than truth. The Real Issue: Rule of Law vs. Celebrity Privilege This situation is not about personal grievances or social status — it’s about the rule of law. The Gambia cannot afford a society where celebrity or wealth becomes a shield from legal obligations. Customs procedures exist for a reason. They are part of a broader tax system that supports national development — funding our hospitals, schools, roads, and essential services. It is every citizen’s duty — from the farmer in Janjanbureh to the footballer in Milan — to pay taxes or go through the lawful process of seeking a duty waiver. That is how functioning societies operate. If someone believes they are entitled to an exemption, let them submit the necessary paperwork — not send emissaries to argue their case in the airport terminal. Public Servants Are Not the Enemy Mrs. Jarju is not the villain in this story. She is a reflection of the kind of public servant The Gambia desperately needs — principled, composed, and unwavering in the face of pressure. To attack her character for fulfilling her responsibilities is not only unfair; it sends a dangerous message to other officers: “Do your job, and we’ll tear you down for it.” We must ask ourselves: do we want a country where public officials are bullied into silence, or one where the law applies to all — equally and consistently? A Word to the Online Mob To those on social media who have turned this incident into a circus: freedom of expression is a right — but truth is a responsibility. Misinformation, tribal sentiments, and personal attacks erode the very foundation of the justice you claim to defend. If your goal is accountability, then let your advocacy be guided by facts, not fiction. Conclusion: Let Us Stand by Those Who Stand for the Law

JarraNewsTV stands in full support of Mrs. Anna Jarju and all law-abiding customs officers across the country. Their job is not glamorous. It is often thankless. But it is vital to the integrity and sovereignty of our nation. In defending Anna Jarju, we defend professionalism. We defend justice. And we affirm, once again, that no one is above the law — not even our heroes in cleats. — JarraNewsTV Editorial Board

GRA Clarifies Incident Involving International Footballer Musa Barrow at Banjul Airport

GRA Clarifies Incident Involving International Footballer Musa Barrow at Banjul Airport The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) has issued a formal statement to address the recent incident involving Gambian international footballer Musa Barrow at Banjul International Airport on July 11, 2025. According to the GRA, Mr. Barrow arrived via Turkish Airlines at approximately 7:00 PM. Upon arrival, his five suitcases were flagged during mandatory luggage screening. This process was conducted by a joint airport security task force made up of the GRA, Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG), State Intelligence Services (SIS), Food Safety Unit, and Public Health officials. The suitcases were flagged by the Image Analyst over customs-related concerns. The GRA states that Mr. Barrow did not personally engage with customs officers after being informed of the flagged luggage. Instead, his brother and several associates attempted to present the bags to GRA Shift Supervisor Mrs. Anna Jarju, who was not present during the initial screening. Despite repeated requests, Mr. Barrow reportedly refused to come forward for inspection. His brother, acting on his behalf, opened the luggage but failed to produce any invoices or documents to support the declared contents. Due to the lack of proper valuation documentation, customs duties were initially estimated at D15,000 (D2,500 per suitcase) but later reduced to D10,000. Mr. Barrow, through his brother, reportedly claimed an inability to pay the revised amount. GRA officials held a private meeting with the footballer and ultimately allowed him to leave without payment, issuing a stern warning to ensure future compliance. In its statement, the GRA emphasized that all individuals, regardless of status or fame, are subject to the same customs procedures. The Authority also praised the professionalism and integrity of its staff, especially Mrs. Anna Jarju, whose conduct was reportedly in line with standard protocols. The incident, GRA confirmed, was captured on CCTV footage with audio. Furthermore, the Authority reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on staff misconduct and noted that a dedicated Internal Affairs Unit is in place to investigate and enforce disciplinary actions when necessary. The GRA reiterated its commitment to transparency, professionalism, and the enforcement of national laws. The Authority concluded by urging all travelers to cooperate fully with customs officials to support the protection of The Gambia’s economy and national security. — GRA Management

Businessman Pays Over D1.3 Million for BCC Land, Still Denied Access Seven Years On

By JarraNews Staff Reporter Gambian Businessman Pays Over D1.3 Million for BCC Land, Still Denied Access Seven Years On Banjul — A Gambian businessman who says he paid over D1.3 million to the Banjul City Council (BCC) for a plot of land has told the Local Government Commission of Inquiry that, despite making substantial payments, he has yet to take possession of the land—more than seven years after it was first allocated to him. Momodou Korka Jallow testified before the Commission on Tuesday, revealing that he applied for a plot after learning that land allocations were being made to others. His application, he said, was approved, and he was allocated a parcel measuring 175 by 125 meters. He was asked to pay D2 million for the property. “I was only given a letter indicating that I should pay D2 million,” Jallow told the Commission, stating that no negotiations took place over the amount. Under questioning from Lead Counsel Patrick Gomez, Jallow confirmed that he accepted the price as quoted. Jallow said he began payments toward the D2 million fee, ultimately paying around D1.3 million before halting in 2022. He explained that he was advised not to proceed further after learning that an embargo had been placed on land transactions under review. He supported his testimony with a lease agreement dated 2017 and ten payment receipts issued by the BCC, all of which were submitted into evidence. Despite these payments, he said, the land remains out of his reach. The allocation, Jallow noted, was made during the tenure of the late Mayor Abdoulie Bah, whom he described as “a friend.” He stopped short of alleging misconduct but emphasized that the process has been stalled ever since. “Since then, I have been struggling to possess the land,” Jallow said. “I was told the issue would be resolved, and I am still waiting.” The Commission asked Jallow to provide further documentation, including his application letter, the approval, and all related correspondence with the BCC. His testimony comes amid a sweeping probe by the Local Government Commission of Inquiry into land allocations, procurement, and financial practices across local councils between May 2018 and January 2023. The inquiry is part of a broader effort to promote transparency and accountability in local governance. The hearings continue.

Land Sale Sparks Scrutiny of Banjul City Council Dealings

By JarraNews Staff Reporter Banjul, The Gambia — A Lebanese-Gambian businessman at the center of a controversial land transaction in the capital has admitted profiting over D13 million from the sale of a public property, despite having no formal lease or signed agreement with the Banjul City Council (BCC). Testifying before the Local Government Commission of Inquiry, Sharbel Elhajj revealed he purchased a plot of council land for D2 million in 2018 and later sold it to EMK Stores, owned by businessman Nandu, for D15 million. Elhajj’s testimony unfolded over two days and exposed a murky chain of verbal proposals, informal payments, and administrative ambiguity—raising fresh questions about the city council’s land management practices under the previous administration. A Deal Without Documentation Elhajj told the commission that he initially approached the BCC with a proposal to develop a warehouse and packaging facility along Bond Road. However, the project—allegedly pitched by a Nigerian company called Fuwani—never materialized. “There was no feasibility study,” Elhajj admitted. “I could not have waited for it. Time is of essence.” Instead of the requested Bond Road site, BCC allocated him a plot behind the National Assembly. Elhajj said he paid D2 million to the council’s account before inspecting the land—a decision that raised eyebrows during cross-examination by Lead Counsel Patrick Gomez. “Who pays for land before seeing it?” Gomez asked. “Will you do that under normal business conditions?” “No,” Elhajj replied, “but maybe that was BCC’s procedure.” Fuwani later rejected the site, and Elhajj turned to EMK Stores, arranging to have the land transferred despite lacking legal ownership. Profiting from Public Property On April 16, 2019, Elhajj wrote to the BCC’s Chief Executive Officer requesting that the land be transferred to EMK Stores. Though he had no formal lease, the transaction proceeded—culminating in a D15 million deal with EMK. “You don’t have a land. You don’t have anything to sell,” Gomez said during questioning. “Yet you made D13 million.” Elhajj responded: “If you do A minus B, that is correct... But there were risks involved.” BCC’s former CEO Mustapha Batchilly confirmed that Elhajj had paid D2 million to the council and that his application was approved by the Council, following a referral from the Mayor. However, Batchilly admitted no lease was ever issued. “We just used the letter [from Elhajj] to transfer the land to EMK Stores,” Batchilly testified. “That letter was not a power of attorney,” Gomez retorted. “Council did not authorize the transfer.” Questions Over Origin of Funds Further scrutiny revealed that the D2 million Elhajj used to pay BCC may have originated from Nandu himself, casting doubt on Elhajj’s claim that Fuwani was the original partner. “There was no Nigerian company,” Gomez concluded. “Nandu was in the picture all along.” Elhajj admitted he sought out Nandu only after the Fuwani deal collapsed. “That deal failed,” he said. Yet Gomez remained unconvinced, arguing that the entire Fuwani narrative may have been a fabrication to secure the land. A breakdown of payments submitted to the Commission showed Elhajj received D10.8 million from EMK Stores, with two cheques dated August 2020 tendered as evidence. The agreement between Elhajj’s firm, C-Consulting, and EMK Stores stipulated that D5 million would be paid to the council—though BCC records show only the initial D2 million was received. When asked about the size of the abandoned project, Elhajj claimed it was valued at $20 million. “Where can we find documentation for that?” Gomez asked. “Nowhere,” Elhajj admitted. Mayor in the Dark? Batchilly, who described himself as “shocked” upon learning of the D15 million deal, testified that he had contacted the Mayor via WhatsApp to ask whether she was aware of the transaction. “She said she wasn’t,” Batchilly said. He also cast doubt on EMK’s later claim to have invested D35 million in the site, particularly in backfilling. “I don’t know about that money,” he said. “D33 million for backfilling does not make sense.” Gomez agreed: “That reasoning is simply implausible.” Commission Demands Clarity As the hearing concluded, the Commission requested a full list of all land allocations made by the BCC during the relevant period. Batchilly promised to provide the list on June 3. The inquiry has spotlighted what appears to be a pattern of informal arrangements and private profiteering from public land—without the necessary documentation, oversight, or due diligence. “You don’t have land. You don’t have anything to sell,” Gomez said in closing. “Yet you walked away with millions.” Elhajj’s response was stark: “It is business.”