National News

𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐋, 𝟔𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: A high-level delegation led by the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Hon. Sering Modou Njie, presented The Gambia’s Voluntary Review Report on the implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) at the International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) in New York. The submission reaffirms the Government’s sustained commitment to advancing safe, orderly and regular migration, while addressing emerging challenges through inclusive and evidence-based policy approaches. Recognised as a GCM Champion Country, The Gambia was among the 164 United Nations Member States that adopted the Global Compact for Migration on 19 December 2018. This milestone reaffirmed the country’s commitment to multilateral cooperation, the protection of human rights, and strengthened migration governance, while underscoring migration as a shared global responsibility and a key driver of sustainable development. Since the adoption of the Compact, The Gambia has recorded notable progress across key priority areas. Significant achievements have been made in remittances, diaspora engagement, public awareness, border management, migrant protection, and return and reintegration. Improvements in remittance systems, supported by financial innovation, digital solutions, and strengthened reporting mechanisms, have enhanced the developmental impact of migration on households and the broader economy. Reintegration programmes continue to support returnees through livelihood assistance, skills development, and psychosocial services, contributing to sustainable reintegration at the community level. Public awareness initiatives, led by government institutions and partners, have strengthened understanding of migration risks and opportunities, particularly among youth and high-migration communities. The Gambia has further demonstrated leadership by mainstreaming migration into the Recovery-Focused National Development Plan (2023–2027) and advancing the development of a National Migration Strategy, ensuring stronger alignment between migration governance and broader socio-economic priorities. The active engagement of civil society, the private sector, the media, and diaspora actors has contributed to a more inclusive and participatory migration governance framework, enhancing outreach, service delivery, and innovation. Lessons learned from implementation continue to inform ongoing efforts, with emphasis on strengthening data systems, enhancing institutional coordination, expanding regular migration pathways, and building national capacities. Additional progress has been made in addressing trafficking in persons and the smuggling of migrants through improved border coordination, victim protection systems, institutional capacity-building, and ongoing legal reforms supported by national authorities and partners. The preparation of the report followed a structured, consultative, and evidence-based process, grounded in a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach. The process was coordinated through the National Coordination Mechanism (NCM) on Migration, with technical support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Network on Migration in The Gambia. To ensure inclusivity and broad national ownership, multi-stakeholder consultations were convened in March-April 2026. These consultations brought together representatives from government ministries, departments and agencies, United Nations entities, civil society organisations through TANGO, the media, academia, the private sector, trade unions, national human rights institutions, and organisations representing persons with disabilities, including the Gambia Federation of the Disabled (GFD). Regional consultations were also conducted across selected local government areas to capture sub-national perspectives, particularly on internal migration dynamics and community-level drivers. On the margins of IMRF 2026, The Gambia co-chaired a high-level side event titled “Saving Lives and Missing Migrants: From Recommendations to Results,” held on Tuesday, 5 May. The event was co-organised with the Republic of Ecuador and the United Nations Network on Migration, in collaboration with key partners, including the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). In his intervention, the Honourable Minister emphasized that behind each statistic lies a human story, a life cut short and families left in uncertainty and grief. These tragedies, he stressed, are preventable and require urgent, collective action. The Government of The Gambia reiterates its strong commitment to strengthening partnerships at national, regional, and global levels to ensure that migration remains safe, orderly, and beneficial for all. It will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to advance the objectives of the Global Compact for Migration and to harness the positive contributions of migration for national development.

𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐋 𝟐𝟎𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: On Thursday 16th April 2026, the Permanent Secretary and Head of the Diplomatic Service of The Gambia, Ambassador Lang Yabou, received a High-Level Delegation of the Leadership and Strategic Studies Course from the Nigerian Army Resource Center (NARC) in Abuja Nigeria at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad. The 54 Member-Delegation which was led by Major General Khalifa Myam, other Senior Officers and 44 Course Participants was in The Gambia as part of a study tour from the 12th to 17th April 2026 under the theme: “Defeating Emerging Asymmetric Threats: The Need for Regional Cooperation.” In receiving the delegation on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Mr. Sering Modou Njie, Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Yabou, warmly welcomed them to The Gambia, describing the country as their “second home” and reaffirming the longstanding and cordial bilateral relations between the Republic of The Gambia and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He expressed sincere appreciation for the decision of the Nigerian Army Resource Center to choose The Gambia for this important study tour. While, delivering his address on the theme of the Study Tour, Ambassador Lang Yabou paid tribute to the men and women in uniform across the region who continue to serve with dedication and commitment in safeguarding national and regional peace and security. He also expressed the Gambia’s deep appreciation to the Government and people of Nigeria for their enduring support and cooperation, particularly in the training and development of Gambian armed and security personnel as well as, overall contribution to the Gambia’s development strides. Ambassador Yabou underscored the importance of regional solidarity and cooperation in addressing evolving security challenges, noting that the current global environment is marked by complex and dynamic asymmetric threats to peace and stability that needs our collective action to address them. Furthermore, in urging countries to unite in order to confront the emerging asymmetric threats, Permanent Secretary Yabou, expressed sincere appreciation and gratitude to the Government and People of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the many years it has partnered in and supported efforts to prioritize African peace, security and development as cardinal principles of its foreign policy and development cooperation, citing Gambian security officers – many of whom were trained in Nigerian institutions – as an example. As measures to address the emerging asymmetric threats, Permanent Secretary Yabou highlighted the importance of enhanced collaboration, intelligence sharing, capacity building among countries in the ECOWAS sub-region, the need for continued efforts and cooperation toward addressing asymmetric threats, to bring about lasting peace and development for the people in the sub-region. In summarizing his presentation, Ambassador Lang Yabou emphasized that effectively addressing emerging asymmetric threats requires sustained international and regional cooperation, partnership and solidarity in strengthening state institutions, ensuring the protection of state sovereignty and territorial integrity, address hopelessness, ensuring inclusiveness and consensus building on national issues, and spearheading collective efforts to tackle underlying challenges such as poverty, youth unemployment, humanitarian crisis, climate change, lack of sustainable development, and illiteracy in the region. Ambassador Yabou concluded by reaffirming the Gambia’s commitment and determination to promoting peace, security, and development within the region and beyond. “As a government and people, The Gambia continues to attach great importance to the attainment of peace and security in the sub-region, Africa and beyond, and our partnership with the Federal Republic of Nigeria in fostering international cooperation in the search for solutions to eradicating asymmetric threats would continue. The Gambia, would continue to champion and be committed to the cause of addressing all forms of threat to peace and security in the region and beyond and we remain optimistic that, with the required support from all partners and stakeholders, the region would achieve the desired positive outcomes for our efforts in securing a region free from all forms of conflicts” asserted Ambassador Yabou. “Together with the Federal Republic of Nigeria, we would continue to support efforts geared towards addressing emerging asymmetric threats and bringing about lasting peace and development for the people of our region” Permanent Secretary Ambassador Lang Yabou concluded. The engagement provided an opportunity for Senior Officials and Participants to interact with Ambassador Lang Yabou, asked questions and exchanged views on peace and security issues in the region and beyond and of particular interest during this session relates to maritime security, illegal unreported and unregulated fishing, migration, etc. On their part, Major General Khalifa Myam and delegation expressed their appreciation and gratitude to Gambian authorities for the great hospitality extended to them and the quality of the presentation and engagement at the Ministry. They reechoed, the many years of strong cooperation and partnership between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and The Gambia describing it as a relationship that is unique and beneficial to both sides. The session ended with the delegation conveying Nigeria’s assurance and commitment to continue partnering with The Gambia. The Study Tour enables the Delegation to visit different Gambian Institutions and, exchange insights on strategies for addressing asymmetric threats and, is expected to further strengthen bilateral relations and deepen cooperation between the Nigerian Army Resource Centre and institutions in The Gambia, while contributing to ongoing regional efforts to ensure stability and security across West Africa.

𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐋, 𝟏𝟑𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: At the 9th Meeting of Ministers of the South Atlantic Peace and Cooperation Zone (ZOPACAS) held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (8–9 April 2026), The Gambia reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to regional peace, security, and sustainable development. The Meeting focused on strengthening cooperation across key priority areas, including maritime security, ocean governance, climate change, transnational illicit activities, the protection of global commons, as well as peace and security in the South Atlantic. Delivering a statement on behalf of the President of the Republic of The Gambia, His Excellency Adama Barrow, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Sering Modou Njie, extended warm greetings to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and commended Brazil for successfully hosting the high-level meeting. The Minister emphasized the growing urgency for collaboration among South Atlantic nations in addressing evolving global and regional challenges. “The need for regional solidarity and coordinated action has never been greater,” he stated, pointing to threats such as climate change, maritime insecurity, and transnational crime. Highlighting the importance of maritime security, he stressed that “peace and maritime security remain fundamental prerequisites for development,” calling for stronger cooperation in information sharing, joint surveillance, and law enforcement to combat illegal fishing, trafficking, and other crimes at sea. On sustainable development, The Gambia underscored the importance of protecting marine resources and supporting fisheries. The Minister noted that “the sustainable management of our shared marine resources is a priority for The Gambia,” advocating for harmonized policies and stronger monitoring systems to safeguard livelihoods and food security. Addressing climate change, he warned of its severe impact on coastal nations, declaring that “climate change and sea-level rise constitute existential threats to many of our coastal communities.” He called for increased climate financing, technical support, and global action to address loss and damage, while promoting solutions such as mangrove restoration and coastal protection. The Minister also emphasized the importance of building an inclusive and sustainable blue economy. “Promoting a sustainable blue economy that benefits all citizens must be central to our collective agenda,” he said, highlighting opportunities in renewable energy, aquaculture, and maritime industries. Reaffirming The Gambia’s commitment to multilateral cooperation, he announced concrete contributions, including hosting capacity-building workshops, participating in maritime surveillance initiatives, and supporting regional climate-resilient infrastructure planning. In closing, the Minister underscored the interconnected nature of regional priorities: “Our collective security, prosperity and environmental stewardship are inextricably linked.

𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐋, 𝟏𝟏𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: A high-level delegation from the Republic of The Gambia, led by the Chief of Staff, at the Office of the President, Hon. Mr. Alieu Loum, and comprising the Permanent Secretary II of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Ms. Fatou Kinneh Jobe, together with other senior government officials, concluded an official working visit to the People’s Republic of China last week. The visit, which coincided with the 10th anniversary of the resumption of diplomatic relations between the two countries, underscored the shared commitment to further strengthening the longstanding partnership and advancing mutually beneficial cooperation. During the visit, the delegation held strategic consultations with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, focusing on deepening bilateral relations and advancing a comprehensive, results-oriented partnership aligned with The Gambia’s Recovery-Focused National Development Plan (2023–2027) and the outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). The discussions included the proposed establishment of a Foreign Service Academy of The Gambia, aimed at strengthening diplomatic capacity and enhancing institutional effectiveness. The two sides also discussed several priority areas and explored opportunities to expand scholarships, training programmes, and people-to-people exchanges within the framework of FOCAC 2026. The delegation met with H.E. Miao Deyu, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, where both sides reaffirmed the strong and dynamic partnership between the two countries. The Gambian delegation conveyed warm greetings from H.E. President Adama Barrow to H.E. President Xi Jinping and expressed deep appreciation for China’s continued support to The Gambia’s development efforts. Discussions reviewed cooperation under key frameworks, including FOCAC, the Belt and Road Initiative, and the Global Development Initiative, with emphasis on strengthening institutional capacity, advancing priority projects, and expanding collaboration in emerging sectors. In a separate engagement, the delegation met with Mr. Liu Junfeng, Vice Chairman of China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), where discussions focused on enhancing development cooperation and improving project implementation. The Gambian side expressed appreciation for China’s grant assistance and concessional support, including the “small and smart projects” initiative, and presented proposals in several priority areas. Both sides also reviewed ongoing and planned projects, particularly in the energy sector, emphasizing the importance of timely implementation, effective coordination, and measurable impact. As part of efforts to strengthen institutional capacity, the delegation visited the China Foreign Affairs University, where they were received by Ambassador Wang Shihting, Head of the University, where discussions centered on building partnerships to support the establishment of the proposed Foreign Service Academy. The engagement further highlighted opportunities under FOCAC to enhance professional training and knowledge exchange. During the visit, the delegation held an engagement at the Embassy of the Republic of The Gambia in Beijing, where they were received by H.E. Ambassador Masanneh Kinteh and his staff. The Embassy provided a comprehensive briefing on its priority areas, achievements, and ongoing initiatives, highlighting its role in promoting diplomatic, economic, and development cooperation between the two countries. The Government of the Republic of The Gambia reaffirms its strong commitment to further strengthening its strategic partnership with the People’s Republic of China. This milestone visit, marking ten years of renewed diplomatic relations, provides a timely opportunity to consolidate existing gains, advance priority initiatives and explore new avenues of cooperation in energy, trade, digital innovation, and human capital development. The Gambia remains steadfast in its adherence to the One China Principle and continues to support China in multilateral fora. Both countries look forward to translating their shared commitments into tangible, sustainable outcomes that will further enhance development and prosperity for their peoples.        

𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐋, 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Bakary Dena Sonko as African Youth Ambassador for Peace (AYAP), to the 4th Cohort, representing the West African Region from 1st April 2026 to 31st March 2028. This prestigious appointment, endorsed by the African Union Peace and Security Council, recognises Mr. Sonko’s leadership, commitment and dedication to advancing peace, security and youth engagement across the African continent. In this role, Mr. Sonko will work with the African Union and other stakeholders to advance the Youth, Peace and Security agenda across West Africa. His responsibilities will include: ▪️Advocating for the promotion and protection of the rights of young people within the region; ▪️Raising awareness of the African Union Continental Framework on Youth, Peace and Security (CFYPS) and its 10-Year Implementation Plan; ▪️Supporting AU Member States in coordinating the Youth for Peace Programme and facilitating the development and implementation of National Action Plans; ▪️Implementing regional youth-focused initiatives aligned with the five priority areas of the CFYPS; and ▪️Representing the AU Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security in meetings, trainings and workshops, when required. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses its full confidence in Mr. Sonko’s ability to effectively deliver this mandate and contribute meaningfully to advancing the Youth, Peace and Security agenda across the West African region. This appointment is a source of pride for The Gambia and reflects the country’s continued contribution to peace-building and youth leadership on the African continent. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs extends its sincere congratulations to Mr. Sonko and wishes him success in this important role. 𝐄𝐍𝐃.

The President of the Republic of The Gambia, His Excellency Adama Barrow, held a substantive telephone conversation today, 8th April 2026, with the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, His Excellency Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. During the cordial and productive exchange, the two leaders discussed a range of bilateral issues of mutual interest, reaffirming their shared commitment to further promote and enhance the longstanding relations between The Gambia and Egypt. They underscored the importance of strengthening cooperation and collaboration across various sectors, including trade, investment, education, and capacity building, for the mutual benefit of their peoples. The two Heads of State also exchanged views on recent developments in the Middle East. In this regard, President Barrow, in his capacity as Chair of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), highlighted his ongoing engagements with leaders in the region aimed at fostering peace and stability. He reiterated The Gambia’s principled position that dialogue and diplomacy remain the most effective and sustainable means of resolving conflicts, emphasizing the need to avoid military confrontation. President Barrow commended President El-Sisi for his continued efforts in mediating and promoting peaceful solutions to the ongoing conflict, expressing appreciation for Egypt’s constructive role in advancing regional stability. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close consultations and working together on issues of regional and international concern.

𝐁𝐀𝐍𝐉𝐔𝐋, 𝟕𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓: The Republic of The Gambia and the Republic of Azerbaijan have successfully commenced the First Round of Political Consultations at the Coco Ocean Hotel and Resort in Bijilo, marking a significant milestone in the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two countries. The consultations were co-chaired by Ambassador Lang Yabou, Permanent Secretary I and Head of the Diplomatic Service at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad of The Gambia, and H.E. Mr. Yalchin Rafiyev, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Yabou welcomed the Azerbaijani delegation to The Gambia, describing the consultations as a historic step in deepening cooperation between the two nations. He highlighted that relations between The Gambia and Azerbaijan, established in 1994, have continued to grow based on shared values of mutual respect, solidarity, and South–South cooperation. He noted that the consultations would serve as a platform to explore new avenues for collaboration and further strengthen existing partnerships, particularly in areas such as education, capacity building, and human capital development, where Azerbaijan has continued to support The Gambia through scholarship programmes and technical assistance. The consultations covered a broad range of strategic areas, including: ▪️Bilateral Relations and Cooperation ▪️Economic and Trade Cooperation ▪️Investment Promotion ▪️Sectoral Cooperation ▪️Parliamentary and Multilateral Cooperation The consultations concluded with both sides expressing satisfaction with the depth and breadth of discussions and reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. The meeting culminated in the adoption of agreed minutes and the identification of priority areas for future cooperation, with a shared commitment to translating discussions into concrete actions and measurable outcomes. Both delegations emphasized that the First Round of Political Consultations has laid a solid foundation for a more structured, dynamic, and results-oriented partnership between The Gambia and Azerbaijan.