BRIKAMA – The University of Applied Science, Engineering, and Technology (USET) held its inaugural convocation ceremony on Saturday, with President Adama Barrow officiating the joint commissioning of the College of Science and Engineering (CoSE) Building and the graduation of the institution’s first cohort of engineering students.
Twenty-eight students graduated from the Departments of Civil Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering during the ceremony held in Brikama.
“The occasion represents not only the overwhelming development of our tertiary education sector, but also a new chapter in our ambition to transform The Gambia into a knowledge-driven, technologically empowered, and self-reliant nation,” President Barrow said at the event.
The ceremony included the conferment of an honorary Doctor of Engineering and Technology (Honoris Causa) degree upon President Barrow by USET. According to the State House statement, the honorary degree recognized “not just his tangible achievements but his enduring legacy of integrity, vision, and service—a true architect of national progress.”
The event marked the commissioning of the new College of Science and Engineering building alongside the graduation ceremony. USET focuses on applied science, engineering, and technology education as part of the country’s tertiary education sector.
The graduation represents the first group of engineering students to complete their studies at the Brikama-based institution.
Francis Gomez celebrates a goal at the Box-ba Mini Stadium
The Box Bar Mini Stadium is a furnace of noise, alive with the fervour of passionate fans packed into the stands, all chanting fervently in support of Sibanor United. The atmosphere buzzes with excitement and tension as the team faces off against Kunkujang Friends in the West Coast Regional Football Association (WCRFA) Third Division League final. As the game progresses into the 61st minute, it seems that all hope is fading for the Foni boys; opportunities slip away like grains of sand, and the crowd’s energy wavers.
However, a spark ignites when 16-year-old Francis Gomez switches from the right wing to the attacking midfield position. This wiry wunderkind possesses a left foot that hints at genius, and in a moment that rewrites the narrative, he drifts gracefully from the right wing into the heart of the action as an attacking midfielder. With a keen eye, he scans the field, waiting for the perfect opportunity. As a defender lunges toward him, Gomez deftly glides past with a mesmerising feint, leaving the opponent grasping at air.
Another defender approaches, yet he is left chasing shadows as Gomez continues his elegant dance through the defence. A crisp one-two with Modou Saidy rips the formations apart, and with the composure of a seasoned player, Gomez strikes the ball past the outstretched arms of the goalkeeper with that sweet left foot. The score is tied at 1-1, and it’s as if the very ground beneath the Box Bar Mini Stadium trembles with excitement, erupting into a tidal wave of joy intertwined with the pulse of Jola music blaring from the PA system.
In the midst of the jubilant chaos, Gomez, lost in the moment of celebration, lifts his jersey to reveal a heartfelt tribute scrawled across the fabric: “I dedicate this to Pa Modou.” His action resonates with the fans, crafting a bond that transcends the game itself.
Then, in the 83rd minute, the tide continues to turn when Saidy delivers a low cross, finding Sainey Nyassi poised and ready. With precision, Nyassi buries the ball into the net, sealing a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory for Sibanor United and crowning them champions. Yet, it is Gomez, the fearless prodigy from Foni, who leaves an indelible mark on this exhilarating night, affirming his status as a young player brimming with vast potential for the future. The energy extinguishes all doubt, lighting a path for what lies ahead.
In the heart of The Gambia, where the sun-drenched dust dances on the sidelines of forgotten regional leagues, a young star is rising, Francis Gomez, the boy from Foni. At just 16, he stands out like a brilliant diamond among mere stones, forging a path from his quaint, sleepy home to the vibrant world of professional football.
With a dazzling first touch and a left foot that sings poetry on the pitch, Gomez isn’t just playing football; he’s crafting artistry that captivates the spirit of his nation. His remarkable dribbles weave through defenders like a painter’s brush on canvas, while his vision on the field reveals scenes of possibility that others fail to see.
Already, whispers of his talent have crossed borders, earning him a pre-contract with Denmark’s AC Horsens, a tantalising promise of professional glory awaiting him at 18. After showcasing his skills on The Gambia’s U17 team at the WAFU Zone A tournament in Senegal, it’s clear—Francis is no ordinary player. He embodies the dreams of many, a beacon of hope from the quiet corners of Foni, destined to carry The Gambia’s aspirations to the grand stages of Europe. As he prepares to dance into the limelight, the world watches with bated breath, ready for the magic he brings.
A Star Forged in Foni’s Dust
Foni’s dirt roads were Gomez’s first arena, where he chased makeshift balls under a merciless sun, his left foot weaving dreams in the dust where he was playing football before he could spell his name. “I started playing football at a very young age before even going to school. I naturally like the game,” he said, his soft voice laced with fire. “I just loved it.” In a country where regional talents often fade into obscurity, Gomez’s gifts were impossible to ignore. Joining Sibanor United was his spark. “That’s where I know my position. I know how to live with a group of people of great personalities,” he said, his eyes gleaming. “I learned to bond with a team of incredible souls.”
Sibanor United is a sanctuary for Gomez. “Last year was magic, even when we fell to Balosarr,” he recalls, a grin breaking free. “But yesterday… scoring that goal, lifting the trophy, that’s a memory etched in my heart.” The Box Bar Mini Stadium, with its roaring fans and raw energy, was his kingdom. Yet, the road is steep. Francis, despite his age, his vision is unshakable: to play for The Gambia at every level and to don FC Barcelona’s blaugrana, his ultimate quest.
Outshining His Idol
Gomez worships Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, a star whose flair he echoes. “I play like him, but I want to surpass him,” he says, his quiet confidence electric. His game is a spectacle: dizzying dribbles, passes that cut like knives, and goals that hush crowds. His shift to attacking midfielder in the final, where he caused absolute havoc, as Coach Camara marvels, was a masterclass in audacity. “I need to be deadlier in front of the goal,” Gomez says, his hunger palpable.
His family and friends are his foundation. “They push me to grow, to stay true,” he says. Their belief fuels his mission to honour Foni, Sibanor, and The Gambia.
Coach Camara’s Rare Jewel
Coach Ebrima Camara
Ebrima Camara, Sibanor United’s coach, speaks of Gomez with reverence. “His discipline and determination are extraordinary,” Camara says. “He’s a natural, versatile, but his best skill is dribbling and finishing.” Gomez has honed his craft, his work ethic and finishing sharper with every session. “He sets training alight, and games? He owns them,” Camara says. Yesterday, when he slid to attacking midfielder, he turned the tide single-handedly.
Camara sees a global destiny. “The pre-contract with AC Horsens, secured for when Gomez turns 18, is a pivotal step. “Horsens sees his rare brilliance,” Camara says. “It’s the perfect launchpad for Europe.” His advice is clear: “Work relentlessly, listen, stay disciplined, believe.” Sibanor nurtures its stars holistically, from training to emotional support. “We’re his family, guarding his dreams,” Camara adds.
In The Gambia, regional talents like Gomez face a brutal challenge: invisibility. “People think stars only rise from first or second divisions or academies,” Camara says. “We give Foni’s kids a chance to shine.” That chance has catapulted Gomez into the spotlight, his left foot a beacon for scouts worldwide.
A Fan’s Fervent Gospel
Pa Modou Tamba, a Sibanor devotee and a Gambian football zealot based in Germany whose name Francis created on a singlet after scoring the goal, has been captivated by Gomez since the 2023 zonals against Gunjur. “He’s The Gambia’s next superstar,” Tamba proclaims. “That sweet left foot is pure wizardry.” Watching Gomez is a ritual of joy. “It sets my heart on fire,” he says. “Foni is bursting with pride for Fra. He’s a once-in-a-generation talent.”
Tamba envisions global glory. “He’ll carry The Gambia’s flag high,” he vows. “He’s a brilliant boy dreaming of being the world’s best. Europe’s elite will come for him.” Tamba knows Sibanor’s time with Gomez is fleeting.
An Agent’s Blueprint for Greatness
Sheriff ML Jarju, CEO of EBanor Agency, saw Gomez’s spark early. “Francis has grit, perseverance, and an unmatched work ethic,” Jarju says. “He loves the game, respects his coaches, and stays humble.” The pre-contract with AC Horsens is a masterstroke. “His deal at AC Horsens is something that will help him to take the next step in his footballing career. We believe that AC Horsens has the best project for its development. His dream is to use AC Horsens as a springboard to the top 5 leagues in the world. We believe with hard work, he will achieve his dreams playing in the 5 top leagues in the world.” Jarju says. The deal, set for when Gomez turns 18, is his gateway to the world.
A Left Foot to Rewrite History
Francis Gomez
Francis Gomez is a rare comet from Foni, blazing a trail where few from The Gambia’s regional leagues dare to tread. His game-changing goal in the WCRFA final, his fearless shift to attacking midfielder, and that sweet left foot have made him a legend at 16. With Coach Camara’s wisdom and Sheriff Jarju’s vision, Gomez is destined for greatness. As Pa Modou Tamba declares, “Fra will play for giants. He’s a boy from Foni dreaming big to be the world’s best.”
For now, Gomez remains in Sibanor and is set to help them for a place in the national Second Division League while he awaits his age to turn 18 for a professional contract, perfecting his art and dreaming of Barcelona. But the world is watching, and with every velvet touch of his left foot, this rare Gambian talent inches closer to immortality. On June 21, 2025, at the Box Bar Mini Stadium, Francis Gomez proved that from Foni, a star can rise to light up Gambian football’s future.
President Adama Barrow delivered his 2025 State of the Nation Address to the National Assembly on June 19, outlining what he described as his administration’s key achievements and policy priorities as The Gambia marks its 60th year of independence.
Barrow reported that The Gambia’s economy grew by 5.8% in 2024, with a projected growth rate of 5.9% by December 2025.
“Despite global and regional challenges, the growth rate was five-point-eight percent (5.8%) in 2024, with a projection of five-point-nine percent (5.9%) by December 2025,” he told lawmakers.
He said inflation declined significantly from 17.3% in 2023 to 10.2% in 2024, crediting improvements in financial services, trade, construction, and mining. Remittances, which he described as a vital source of foreign exchange, reached $775.6 million in 2024—a 4% increase from the previous year’s $746.8 million.
Barrow acknowledged fiscal pressures, reporting a deficit of GMD 6.7 billion, or 4.7% of GDP. He noted a reduction in the debt-to-GDP ratio from 75.7% in 2023 to 71.8%, though still above the 70% sustainability threshold.
The President highlighted infrastructure development as a major focus, pointing to the completion of the first two phases of the 22-kilometer OIC Highway.
“This attractive infrastructure has transformed the face of urban Gambia forever,” he said.
He added that 365 kilometers of roads are expected to be completed nationwide by the end of 2025, including the 50-kilometer OIC Urban Roads and the Kiang West Roads.
In the ports sector, Barrow said a concession agreement with Albayrak Company became effective in February 2025. He stated that operations will eventually move to Sanyang following the construction of a deep-sea terminal.
Barrow said assessments show 90% of Gambians will have electricity access by the end of 2025. He reported that the country’s first utility-scale solar park—a 23-megawatt facility in Jambur—has been commissioned, with a 50-megawatt plant planned for Jarra Soma.
To expand household access, he noted that electricity meter prices were reduced from D8,500 to D500 in project-covered areas, enabling 72,000 new household connections by December 2024.
According to Barrow, the agriculture sector received extensive support through subsidized fertilizer and seed distribution. He said 28,000 tons of fertilizer were procured, with the price reduced from D2,500 to D1,150 per 50kg bag in recent farming seasons.
“Through various agricultural projects, the government distributed eight thousand six hundred and ninety-seven (8,697) metric tons of fertiliser, over one thousand (1,000) metric tons of certified rice seeds, three hundred (300) metric tons of certified maize seeds, and one hundred and forty thousand (140,000) litres of herbicides to farmers across the country, free of charge,” Barrow reported.
Barrow said the tourism sector showed positive momentum, citing 227,000 tourist arrivals in 2024—a 10% increase compared to 2023. He said the government projects continued growth toward a target of 336,787 air arrivals, as outlined in the Recovery-Focused National Development Plan.
The President cited the launch of several social protection initiatives, including the Skills, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship Fund with an initial GMD 396 million allocation. He said the Women’s Enterprise Fund disbursed GMD 15.88 million to support 138 women’s groups between June and December 2024.
He also reported that 88 graduates completed the National Youth Service Programme, while 100 University of The Gambia students were placed in various institutions as part of their civic engagement.
On health, Barrow announced ongoing construction of the National Emergency Treatment, Blood Transfusion, and Diagnostic & Imaging centres near the Brusubi roundabout. He said the government procured 32 ambulances, seven trucks, and 61 motorcycles to improve emergency response.
He further reported the expansion of the National Health Insurance Scheme to 13 public health facilities across the country, aimed at easing financial barriers to healthcare.
Barrow emphasized what he described as The Gambia’s growing international profile, referencing the successful hosting of the 15th OIC Summit in 2024 and the country’s assumption of the chairmanship. He also noted The Gambia’s re-election to the UN Human Rights Council and the African Union Peace and Security Council.
On regional conflicts, he stated:
“As Chairman of the OIC, I express grave concern over the recent escalation of Israeli attacks on Iran, resulting in the killing of military and non-military officials. I call for restraint and a return to peace in the region.”
Domestically, Barrow acknowledged persistent challenges such as irregular migration, border security, and drug trafficking. He said the Drug Law Enforcement Agency recorded over 1,000 drug cases in 2024, with 126 convictions.
Looking ahead, Barrow said his administration plans to strengthen digital infrastructure through a second subsea cable rollout by 2026, modernize the civil service through salary reforms, and continue expanding access to essential services.
The President concluded with a call for national unity:
“In unity lies our strength and success. Conversely, disunity exposes us to obstacles and troubles.” He urged Gambians to “remain steadfast in our collective mission to build a better nation” as the country celebrates its Diamond Jubilee.
The National People’s Party (NPP) has announced the immediate removal of four party officials, including its Youth President, following what the party described as serious constitutional and ethical violations.
In a press release issued Saturday, the party stated that “following an executive meeting held on Friday, 20th June 2025, at the Party’s headquarters in Bundung, the National Executive Committee unanimously approved a resolution for the immediate removal of the following party officials from their respective positions.”
The dismissed officials are Mr. Kebba Madi Bojang, who served as Youth President; Mr. Lamin Jatta, a Co-opted National Executive Member; Mr. Lamin Touray, Deputy PRO of the Youth Wing; and Mr. Sainey Manneh, Regional Public Relations Officer for the West Coast Region.
According to the party statement, “this decision was taken in response to actions and conduct by the aforementioned individuals deemed to be in serious violation of the Constitution and ethical standards of the National People’s Party.” The release did not specify the nature of the violations that led to the removals.
Deputy Spokesman Seedy S.K. Njie, who signed the statement, emphasized party unity moving forward. “The NPP urges all its members and supporters to remain committed to the core principles, values, and constitution of the Party as we continue to pursue our collective mission of building a prosperous and democratic nation,” the statement read.
The party leadership also expressed gratitude to its membership, stating: “We extend our sincere gratitude to all members and supporters for their unwavering loyalty and dedication to the ideals of the NPP. Let us remain united and steadfast as we advance toward the upcoming electoral cycle with a renewed sense of purpose and solidarity.”
The removals come as political parties in The Gambia prepare for future electoral processes, with the NPP calling for continued unity among its ranks.
The residents of Koli Kunda in the Upper Region (URR) have praised the newly constructed road that connects their village to nearby communities, recounting how pregnant women previously endured near-fatal situations while attempting to access healthcare services.
Alieu Bah, an elderly villager, described the road as transformative, emphasising the challenges they faced before its construction.
Like many others, Mr. Bah expressed that the new road has brought immense joy to the villagers.
“Only Allah knows how thrilled we are,” he remarked, adding that “previously, during the rainy season, we struggled significantly as the road became impassable. We couldn’t go anywhere when it rained.”
He pointed out that pregnant women had harrowing experiences on the road while seeking healthcare in the past. “Before, when it rained, we couldn’t go anywhere. If a wife were pregnant, she might even die before reaching the hospital,” he said.
The new road has instilled a sense of hope and connectivity in Koli Kunda.
“We are thrilled. We thank the President for the road,” Bah expressed.
Regarding electricity, the villagers mentioned they now have full access.
“Whatever can be done with electricity, we have it now,” stated a villager.
Despite the improved access to roads and electricity, the residents still face challenges as farmers and herders.
“Farming is currently a struggle for us. We lack farming equipment. We seek support with farming tools,” Mr. Bah lamented.
Additionally, residents revealed that accessing water in the village is a significant issue.
“Our boreholes are not operational. Our women walk about a kilometre to fetch water from neighbouring villages,” reported another village elder who also added that “during the dry season, we take our cattle to other areas for grazing where they can find water more easily.”
Amadou, a youth from Koli Kunda, also praised the road construction in his hometown, noting its far-reaching positive effects.
He echoed similar feelings about the previous difficulties they faced due to the poor road conditions.
However, he stressed the ongoing challenges they still encounter, such as water shortages, schools, and madarasa for their children.
“We lack water and schools, and we need all of these,” he pleaded.
President Adama Barrow has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing road construction projects across the country, assuring Gambians that his government is committed to improving infrastructure to drive national development.
Speaking during his routine inspection tour, President Barrow emphasised that most of the planned roads are nearing completion, with only one remaining.
“This is a routine activity we conduct every two months. I am very happy and impressed with what we have seen. Almost all of the roads are completed, except for one. The community is also happy with the progress,” President Barrow stated.
The president extended appreciation to the country’s development partners who have provided funding and concessional loans for the road projects.
“I have to thank our partners because some of these roads are donor-funded, while others are financed through concessional loans, 35 per cent of which are grants. That’s why I am very grateful to our partners,” he said.
President Barrow also commended the National Roads Authority (NRA) and the Ministry of Works for their role in supervising and implementing the projects.
“We are not only working on donor-funded roads. We are also constructing about 350 kilometres of roads financed by the central government. The government is handling three projects at the same time, and all are progressing well,” he noted.
He revealed that phase two of the project will be completed before the end of the year, and phase three will commence immediately after.
“Developing roads is critical to national progress. Without proper roads, you cannot develop a country. We are also investing in electricity, education, and healthcare,” President Barrow emphasised, while thanking his team and international partners for their support.
Based on the latest reports from June 18, Israel and Iran continue exchanging fire on the sixth day of their confrontation, with Iran launching its 12th wave of long-range missiles at Israel while stating attacks will be “focused and continuous.”
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declared they have “opened the gates of hell on the Zionists,” as their missiles penetrated Israel’s air defense systems, killing at least 24 Israelis and wounding hundreds while forcing civilians across the country into bomb shelters.
US President Donald Trump expressed uncertainty when pressed about potential direct American military involvement, telling reporters “that doesn’t mean I’m going to do it” regarding striking Iran’s nuclear facilities, adding “We’ll see what happens… I haven’t made a decision.”
Trump reiterated his claim that Iran was “weeks away” from a nuclear weapon, while UN nuclear agency officials have stated they found no indication Iran is building such weapons.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei warned that any US strikes on Iranian territory will have “serious irreparable consequences,” while Iran’s Foreign Minister emphasized the country remains “committed to diplomacy” and is acting “solely in self-defense.”
Israel reports striking 40 sites in Iran today, including centrifuge production and weapons facilities, while continuing its military operations in Gaza where 144 people were killed in the last 24 hours. The conflict has also drawn responses from Russia, with Putin offering to help broker an agreement between Iran and Israel.
European leaders are scheduled to meet with Iran’s Foreign Minister in Geneva on Friday in coordination with Washington, indicating potential diplomatic efforts as regional tensions escalate.
This report was compiled from live updates by Al Jazeera.
United Democratic Party (UDP) leader Ousainou Darboe has announced his intention to seek the party’s presidential nomination for 2026 while issuing a public call for unity following days of internal recriminations that have exposed deep divisions within the opposition party.
In a statement released today, Darboe acknowledged that “the last few days have not been our best in the all-important arena of living and demonstrating unity of purpose within our party,” referring to public disputes between party members and supporters that have drawn national attention.
The party leader expressed understanding for supporters who have been “saddened, disappointed and in some instances upset” by the public infighting, which has involved party leaders “in varying degrees and manners.”
Darboe emphasized that the UDP’s three-decade history and foundation built on “the sacrifices of martyrs” demands higher standards from all members. He stressed that “the burden of responsibility rests on the shoulders of every member of the United Democratic Party starting from me to the newest person to join our ranks.”
The statement comes amid escalating tensions between supporters of Darboe and Kanifing Municipality Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda, creating what Banjul Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe has described as two camps within the party: “the Darboe and Bensouda camps.” Recent public disputes have involved other party figures including Brikama Area Council Chairman Yankuba Darboe, who told Mengbe Kereng TV: “Any day they tell me that has changed and it is now Talib, I will find my way somewhere else.”
“Our party is big, it is growing and it is diverse. We are all one family in a big tent with room for every member and supporter,” Ousainou Darboe said, attempting to address concerns about internal divisions.
The UDP leader warned that internal conflicts could undermine the party’s prospects, stating: “Disunity whatever the underlying reasoning one may proffer is a losing proposition for all concerned. It must therefore be avoided at all costs.”
He acknowledged that disagreement and ambition within party ranks are “normal” and “healthy,” but cautioned against allowing these natural political dynamics to fracture party unity.
Darboe also pointed to external opponents who “would want to see our unity and diversity fractured not because they offer better alternatives” but to “seek vindication in our disunity and the potential for failure that it entails.”
Most notably, Darboe formally announced his presidential ambitions, stating: “I intend to put forward my candidature for the Party’s flag bearer position.” This declaration comes as the party grapples with ongoing divisions over leadership succession, with disagreements centering on whether the veteran leader should continue as the party’s presidential candidate or step aside for younger leadership, particularly Bensouda.
He emphasized that the UDP will follow “its stipulated rules for the selection of a flag bearer” and promised to run “a robust, facts-based and issues–focused campaign” if selected to challenge what he described as “the corrupt and insensitive NPP government.”
The statement described the upcoming elections as “a defining moment for The Gambia” and positioned the UDP and its potential allies as “the only choice” to replace the current administration.
Darboe concluded with specific instructions to party members: “Do not be distracted, respect all Gambians, do not fan polarisation of any sort and do not pit one member against another.”
The unity call represents Darboe’s attempt to contain the internal divisions that political analysts have warned could weaken the UDP’s appeal among undecided voters crucial to challenging President Adama Barrow’s National People’s Party in 2026.
Whether this public appeal will successfully heal the rift between different factions within the UDP remains to be seen as the party navigates the delicate balance between managing internal ambitions and presenting a united front to voters.
Veteran human rights defender Madi Jobarteh has called for urgent reform in The Gambia’s political parties, warning that deep-rooted stagnation and personality-driven politics are stifling democratic progress in the country.
In a detailed Facebook post reflecting on the ongoing internal friction within the United Democratic Party (UDP), Madi argued that the party’s turmoil is symptomatic of a broader dysfunction that has long plagued Gambian politics.
“The vibrations rumbling in the UDP are nothing new, unexpected, or surprising. Rather, they reflect an outdated system that has characterized our political parties since independence, for which this country has been suffering from bad governance ever since,” Madi Jobarteh wrote.
According to him, the “malaise afflicting the UDP” is not unique but exists across the board, pointing to a common failure in governance, internal democracy, and leadership structures within political parties.
“When any group of people is stagnant and unable to move and evolve, it generates division, injustice, antagonism, and resentment from within,” he noted, adding that internal decay often reduces party politics to “personality, identity, group, and other sectarian interests.”
At the heart of his argument is a firm call for internal democracy, warning that no party can deliver democratic governance unless it first practices democratic values within.
“A political party that is not democratic while in opposition cannot win power and then transform itself into a democratic government immediately on the job. Thus, so long as our political parties are owned or dominated by one person, the party cannot claim to be democratic and viable,” he states.
Madi Jobarteh drew a long list of political parties historically tied to individual leaders:
“UP was PS Njie. PPP was Sir Dawda K. Jawara. NCP was SM. GPP was Assan Musa Camara. PDOIS is Halifa. APRC was AJJ. UDP is Ousainou. NRP is Hamat. GPDP is Henry Gomez. GMC is Ahmad Mai Fatty. GDC is Mamma Kandeh.”
He warned that once these figures leave, their parties often wither or become irrelevant.
“Personalizing political parties, or political parties being overshadowed by an individual, is not democratic. Such an entity does not even qualify to be classified as a political party. It is rather a Kafo at best or a cult at worst,” he states.
While he acknowledges the repressive political atmosphere that defined much of the country’s post-independence period, Jobarteh questioned why reform has not followed the 2016 democratic transition.
“It may be understandable that up until 2016 political parties had weak governance systems, but what is not expected and totally unacceptable is to continue with the same system from 2017 to date. By now, all the political parties should have reformed. Sadly, all the parties failed to reform!” he outlines.
He also proposed specific reforms: instituting term limits for party leaders, separating the role of party leader from that of presidential flag bearer, and introducing stronger, more inclusive governance structures within parties.
“They should avoid decision-making bodies being overtly dominated by a single ethnic group, religion, or region,” he advised, urging transparency in party finances and power decentralization.
Reacting to recent controversial remarks by the Brikama Area Council’s Chairman Yankuba Darboe, Madi sounded critical but equally unsurprised.
“I am disappointed by the uncouth remarks of Chairman Yankuba Darboe. I am not surprised by it at all. The arguments put forward by Nanama Keita and Yunus Hydara are steps towards dismantling stagnancy and autocracy in political parties that should be welcomed by all,” he said.
He emphasized that real democracy goes beyond congresses and structures. It requires values, stressing that creating a semblance of democracy through holding congresses, creating structures, building party bureaus, and taking part in elections does not necessarily indicate true democracy and good governance.
Expressing dismay that the UDP’s top leadership has not changed in nearly three decades, he challenged the party’s younger generation.
“It’s rather disappointing that with the impressive array of its intelligentsia, with diverse national and international experience and expertise, UDP has remained one of the most anachronistic parties in this country. The founders of the party in 1996 remain the leaders of the party in 2025. That is not progress and democracy,” he states.
State House, Banjul, 17th June 2025: His Excellency President Adama Barrow received a delegation from the Gambia University of Applied Science, Engineering, and Technology (USET). The Minister for Higher Education Professor Pierre Gomez led the delegation to the State House in Banjul.
The meeting provided an update to the President regarding the upcoming convocation and commissioning of the USET multimillion-dollar, ultra-modern College of Science and Engineering (CoSE) campus in Brikama. This significant event is slated to take place on Saturday, 21st June 2025 at Brikama.
After 60 years of Independence, President Barrow will also preside over the convocation of the first cohort of home-trained engineers, along with the presentation of certificates and diplomas from the Institute of Technical Training (ITT) and the Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (IIE).
President Barrow welcomed the delegation and expressed satisfaction with the completion of USET building. He assured that it would be a game changer for the Gambian people, while recalling the challenges faced from the allocation of land to the construction of the building. The President reiterated his government’s policy focus on building a skilled workforce in The Gambia, highlighting the role of youths as a driving force for national development. “My policy direction is for Gambians to feel the change.” He stressed. The President thanked the people and government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for their support in enhancing The Gambia’s education, health, and judiciary sectors.
The Minister for MoHERST Prof. Pierre Gomez expressed gratitude to the President for his support and guidance in bringing the first National University of Engineering, Science, and Technology to fruition.
At this historic event, the CoSE will confer degrees to twenty-eight (28) students from the Department of Civil Engineering, Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, and the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
Overall, one thousand, six hundred and fifty graduates from the 2022 to 2024 academic sessions will be awarded certificates in various disciplines of Science, Engineering and Technology.
In another great achievement, the University of Education, formally Gambia College will also be commissioned by the Gambian leader on the 21st June 2025.
The Vice Chancellor of USET Prof. Nazmat Surajudeen-Bakinde acknowledged President Barrow’s transformative agenda and praised Prof. Pierre for his leadership.
The United Democratic Party (UDP), Gambia’s main opposition party, is experiencing significant internal divisions as the 2026 presidential elections approach, with disagreements over leadership succession creating visible tensions within the party ranks.
The Leadership Question
The divisions center on whether veteran leader Ousainou Darboe should continue as the party’s presidential candidate or make way for younger leadership, with Kanifing Municipal Council Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda frequently mentioned as a potential successor. This has led to the formation of what Banjul Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe described as two camps within the party: “the Darboe and Bensouda camps.”
On June 17, Yankuba Darboe, chairman of the Brikama Area Council (BAC), made clear his position in an interview with Mengbe Kereng TV: “Any day they tell me that has changed and it is now Talib, I will find my way somewhere else.” He accused Bensouda of conducting political activities in his region without consultation and claimed that during party tours, “all you see are Talib Bensouda T-Shirts.”
Allegations of Internal Tensions
The crisis extends beyond succession politics. On June 12, Banjul Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe appeared on Eye Africa TV’s Sunu Reew platform, alleging she faces sustained verbal abuse and character assassination from within her own party. Lowe claimed the party leadership has remained silent while she endures attacks, stating that party leader Ousainou Darboe has left her “vulnerable to attacks.”
Yankuba Darboe has accused Bensouda’s supporters of targeting Lowe with “incessant insults and derogatory remarks” and alleged that Bensouda is “using personal branding to overshadow the party” and “sponsoring others under his name with flyers and T-shirts distributed during party rallies.”
Responses and Calls for Unity
Bensouda addressed the divisions on June 14, referring to them as “push and pull” within the party. In a live video on social media, he expressed disappointment with the situation and called for unity, urging the party to focus on “how to remove President Adama Barrow in 2026.” Reports suggest Bensouda briefly considered leaving the party but was persuaded to stay by other members.
Broader Implications
The internal tensions have drawn commentary from across the political spectrum. On June 18, human rights activist Madi Jobarteh described the UDP’s situation as reflecting broader systemic issues in Gambian political parties, arguing that “personalizing political parties” undermines democratic governance.
On June 17, economist and social commentator Nyang Njie published an open letter on his social media platforms expressing concern that the divisions risk alienating independent voters crucial to the party’s electoral prospects. He warned that “the longer this issue festers, the greater the risk of disillusionment among independent voters.”
What This Means Going Forward
The UDP faces several potential scenarios as these tensions continue:
Party Unity vs. Fragmentation: The party leadership’s ability to resolve these divisions will determine whether the UDP remains cohesive or experiences defections ahead of 2026.
Electoral Impact: The public nature of these disagreements may affect the party’s appeal to undecided voters who view internal stability as important for governance.
Succession Timeline: Pressure may mount for an earlier resolution of the leadership question, potentially forcing the party to address succession sooner than planned.
Organizational Reform: The crisis has renewed calls for structural changes in how Gambian political parties operate, with activists arguing for more democratic internal governance.
The UDP leadership has maintained that discussions about the presidential candidate are premature and that all aspirants must follow established party procedures. However, the intensity of the current debates suggests this issue will continue to shape the party’s trajectory in the coming months.
Based on the latest reports, Israel and Iran are engaged in their fifth consecutive day of intense military exchanges, with Iran launching its eighth wave of missiles at Israel in the past 24 hours, triggering sirens across the entire country including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
US President Donald Trump escalated rhetoric significantly, claiming “we now have complete and total control of the skies over Iran” and threatening Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei as an “easy target,” stating the US knows exactly where he is “hiding.”
Iran’s Supreme Leader responded defiantly, posting “In the name of the noble Haidar, the battle begins” on social media, while Iranian military chief Abdolrahim Mousavi urged residents of Tel Aviv and Haifa to evacuate immediately, warning of imminent “punitive” attacks.
The conflict has expanded beyond military targets, with Israel striking residential buildings across Iran killing dozens of civilians, while Iran’s Revolutionary Guards say they are specifically targeting Israeli air bases used to launch strikes on Iranian territory.
Trump is currently meeting with his national security team at the White House as speculation grows over potential direct US military involvement.
This report was compiled from live updates by Al Jazeera.
Public Statement by the Gambia Action Party (GAP)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
As the Leader of the Gambia Action Party, I express our profound disappointment and deep concern over President Adama Barrow’s recent public statement dismissing the possibility of oil being found in The Gambia. These remarks, made during a gathering with Tabital Fulaagu, are not only inaccurate but also dangerously dismissive of years of exploration and evidence suggesting The Gambia’s potential as a future oil-producing nation.
It is shocking and unacceptable that a sitting Head of State, entrusted with the responsibility of promoting national aspirations and development, would so casually declare, “Even in a dream, such a thing makes no sense.” This is not only a contradiction of the nation’s long-standing efforts in oil exploration but also a demoralizing blow to the hopes of Gambians who have waited patiently for the promise of resource-based transformation.
For years, The Gambia has invested time, energy, and resources into oil and gas exploration. International companies and geologists have documented evidence of oil traces in our offshore blocks. The Gambia Petroleum Commission and other agencies have worked with credible international partners, including reputable Canadian and British firms, exploring and confirming signs of viable deposits.
Even the Prime Minister of Senegal, Mr. Ousmane Sonko, publicly acknowledged that it would be inconceivable for Senegal to discover oil and gas without The Gambia doing the same—given our shared geological basin. Therefore, to hear our own President contradict this reality is not only disheartening, but raises serious concerns about the level of leadership and vision driving our country’s development.
Instead of inspiring confidence and hope, President Barrow’s remarks send a dangerous message to investors, technical partners, and the general public—that this government either lacks awareness of our natural resource potential or is choosing to deliberately obscure the truth for political expediency.
The Gambia deserves better. Our people deserve leadership that believes in the nation’s promise and works relentlessly to unlock it. The Gambia Action Party reaffirms its commitment to pursuing the exploration and responsible development of our natural resources to ensure they benefit all Gambians—now and for generations to come.
We call on President Barrow to retract his statement, clarify his position, and reassure the Gambian people and our international partners that The Gambia remains committed to discovering and developing its oil and gas potential.
Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly
Leader, Gambia Action Party
Introduction The Israel-Palestine conflict is one of the most prolonged and contentious issues in modern geopolitics. At the heart of the recent escalation, especially in Gaza, are grave accusations leveled against the State of Israel, including violations of international law and even genocide. These allegations have drawn global attention, particularly after South Africa filed a case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2024, accusing Israel of genocidal acts against Palestinians. While the legal and political dimensions of this conflict are complex, it is essential to analyze the situation based on international legal frameworks and available evidence.
Understanding International Law in Conflict International Humanitarian Law (IHL), especially the Geneva Conventions, regulates conduct during armed conflicts. It prohibits targeting civilians, mandates proportionality in the use of force, and forbids collective punishment. In addition, the Genocide Convention of 1948 defines genocide as actions committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group.
Numerous human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have accused Israel of violating these laws. These include allegations of indiscriminate bombing, targeting civilian infrastructure, forced displacement, and imposing blockades that deny essential supplies to Palestinian civilians, particularly in Gaza.
The Genocide Allegation In January 2024, South Africa filed a case with the ICJ, accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. The court responded by acknowledging a “plausible risk of genocide” and ordered Israel to take immediate steps to prevent any such acts. However, this was not a final ruling but a provisional measure aimed at preventing further harm while the case is ongoing.
To prove genocide, the court must find not only that atrocities were committed but also that they were carried out with the specific intent to destroy a group. This is a high legal threshold and remains to be determined in the full proceedings. Israel, for its part, denies these charges, insisting its military operations are acts of self-defense against armed groups such as Hamas, which have also committed war crimes by targeting Israeli civilians.
Broader Context of War Crimes Beyond the genocide allegation, independent investigations and UN reports have accused both Israel and Palestinian armed factions of war crimes. These include: Israel: Use of disproportionate force, bombing densely populated civilian areas, siege tactics, and the destruction of homes and infrastructure. Hamas and other groups: Indiscriminate rocket attacks on Israeli civilian areas, use of human shields, and hostage-taking.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has opened a formal investigation into potential war crimes committed by all sides, although no formal charges have yet been issued.
Conclusion Whether or not Israel is legally guilty of genocide remains a question for the International Court of Justice to decide. However, there is substantial evidence suggesting that Israel’s military actions in Gaza and its policies in the occupied Palestinian territories violate core principles of international humanitarian law. These actions have resulted in immense civilian suffering, large-scale displacement, and a humanitarian crisis that many argue goes beyond conventional warfare.
Until the courts reach their conclusions, the international community must continue to advocate for accountability, protect civilian lives, and seek a just and lasting solution to the conflict—rooted in human rights and international law.
In Tallinding Farokono, where streets hum with the dreams of young footballers, Ebou Sanyang emerged as a midfield maestro with a fire that defies age and circumstance. In his mid-twenties, where consistency and age play against many Gambian players, the Fortune FC star battles the odds in Gambia’s underdog GFF League, weaving pinpoint passes and transforming himself into both a prolific goal provider and a scorer over the years while chasing a professional dream that could light the way for a nation’s untapped talent.
A Street-Born Dreamer
Born and raised in Tallinding Farokono, a scintillating Gambian community in Kanifing Municipality where football transcends beyond a game to a lifeline. “From a young age, I played barefoot in the streets with my friends,” he recalls, his voice warm with nostalgia. “It started as fun, but I realized I had a passion and a gift I couldn’t ignore.” Those gritty street games, played with worn-out balls on makeshift pitches, forged a relentless spirit. At 13, a defining moment came in a local tournament when he scored a last-minute winner. A coach pulled him aside and said, “You can go far if you stay disciplined.” Those words became his guiding light, propelling him from community Nawettan qualifiers at Serrekunda East’s bustling park to the cusp of professional aspirations.
Ebou’s idols, Argentine playmaker Juan Román Riquelme and Spanish striker Fernando Torres, shaped his dynamic midfield style. “Riquelme taught me vision and intelligence on the ball,” he says, “while Torres inspired my strength and drive forward.” Blending clever passing with physicality, Ebou has become a cornerstone for Fortune FC, dictating play with the poise of a deep-lying playmaker and the tenacity of a box-to-box dynamo.
Rising Through Adversity
Ebou’s path to Fortune FC, where he joined in the 2021–22 season after a stint with Real de Banjul, was paved with challenges familiar to Gambian players. “Lack of proper training facilities, limited access to good boots or even footballs at times,” he lists, his tone steady yet reflective as he recalls challenges growing up in Tallinding with lofty dreams. “Balancing school, family responsibilities, and football wasn’t easy.” These obstacles honed his mental toughness. Moving to Fortune FC was a bold step. “It was a new environment, new tactics,” Ebou admits, “but Fortune gave me freedom to express myself on the pitch, and that helped my confidence grow.”
His impact at Fortune FC is undeniable. In 2021, during Fortune’s historic 3–0 upset over Algeria’s ES Sétif in the CAF Champions League qualifiers, Ebou delivered a no-look, defense-splitting assist that sent the Bakau crowd into a frenzy. “The assist I made that Bura scored—it was special,” he says, eyes gleaming. “Moments like that remind me why I love this game.” Another cherished memory is his free-kick goal against Wallidan, clinching Fortune FC’s first-ever Gambian top-flight trophy. “That goal was for the team, the fans, and every kid in The Gambia dreaming big,” he says.
Ebou’s versatility shines in his love for assisting. “There’s something about creating a goal, breaking down a defense with a pass, that gives me satisfaction,” he explains. Yet his scoring touch is just as vital, with a crucial brace against Harts FC this year and six other goals cementing his reputation as a clutch performer.
Defying Age and Doubt
At 25, Ebou confronts a persistent stereotype: the notion that he’s “too old” to break into professional football abroad. He rejects it with unwavering conviction. “Age is just a number,” he asserts. “Football is about performance, mentality, and hunger. If I’m fit, disciplined, and still improving, why should age stop me? Late bloomers exist.” His evolution at Fortune FC backs his claim. Initially a box-to-box midfielder, he’s grown into a trusted leader who orchestrates play from deep. “The coaches trust me to lead from the middle,” he says, “and I’m still learning every day.”
Ebou’s dream is vivid: to play professionally, ideally in Europe’s top leagues—France, Italy, or Holland. “Going professional means being able to focus fully on football and live off the game I love,” he says. In a country where scouts rarely visit GFF League matches, staying motivated is a test of resolve. “I focus on what I can control,” Ebou explains. “Every match is a chance to improve. If I give my best, the right opportunity will come.”
A Voice for Gambian Football
Ebou sees himself as a torchbearer for Gambian football. The GFF League, he notes, is progressing with better-organized clubs and coaching, but it still lacks investment and global exposure. “We may not have the facilities or attention,” he says, “but we have heart, talent, and hunger. There are so many gifted players here; we just need a platform to show the world what we can do.” Inspired by Gambian stars like Omar Colley and Musa Barrow, Ebou believes the leap from local pitches to global stages is within reach.
His preparation for big matches reflects his professionalism. Before facing rivals like Real de Banjul or in high-stakes CAF games, Ebou studies opponents, visualizes his movements, and prays. “Mentally, I remind myself it’s just football—play your game, trust your ability,” he says. Off the pitch, he’s a role model, driven to inspire the next generation. “We can lead by example,” he says. “Show that even without big resources, hard work and discipline can take you far.”
A Dream Worth Chasing
Ebou Sanyang’s story is a testament to resilience, a rebuke to stereotypes, and a call for the world to recognize The Gambia’s untapped potential. Every pass he threads, every goal he scores, every tackle he makes is a declaration: talent knows no age, and dreams know no borders. For the kids in Tallinding Farokono kicking balls in the dust, Ebou is proof that greatness begins with heart.
As he laces up his boots for Fortune FC, Ebou carries a nation’s hopes and a personal vow. “If a scout was watching,” he says with a grin, “I’d want them to see my vision, my work rate, and my love for the game.” Somewhere, in a stadium or on a grainy highlight reel, that scout might be watching. And Ebou Sanyang is ready.
Ansumana Kinteh, Police Commissioner for Human Rights & Professional Standards at Police Headquarters, has cautioned officers against engaging in torture, stressing that the Inspector General of Police’s office will take allegations of torture seriously.
Commissioner Kinteh encouraged law enforcement officers to manage cases by the law.
The Gambia has implemented the Prevention and Protection of Torture Act, 2023, aimed at preventing and penalising acts of torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.
This act reflects the Convention against Torture, which Gambia ratified in 2018, and establishes a legal framework for prosecuting torture cases.
Commissioner Kinteh made these statements during the opening of a two-day capacity-building training for police and security personnel organised by the Women’s Association for Women and Victims Empowerment (WAVE Gambia) at the Police Intervention Unit Headquarters in Kanifing on Monday.
The training with supported by the Global Human Rights Fund through the Legal Empowerment Fund.
The seasoned police officer urged officers to practice patience and discipline while performing their duties.
“Torture-related matters are off-limits for the police, and the office of the IGP will not take it lightly,” Commissioner Kinteh warned.
“As officers, we must not fall short,” he emphasised, adding that under the Anti-torture Act, any officer found negligent will face consequences.
Priscilla Yagu Ciesay, WAVE Co-founder and Senior Technical Adviser, noted that the goal is to provide police with a clear understanding of the legal frameworks that prohibit torture, including the Prevention and Prohibition of Torture Act, 2023, and international human rights standards.
She highlighted that this training, facilitated by WAVE, is vital as it aims to promote a culture of respect for human rights within law enforcement, enhance accountability, and ensure the protection of human dignity at all times.
“Beating someone you arrest is unacceptable, and no officer should consider such actions,” said OC Esq Musa Camara, advising his fellow officers to always adhere to due process when dealing with alleged offenders.
“If you arrest someone and they insult you, simply charge them but do not beat or slap; the law forbids that,” he added.
Adeline Basangeh, Commissioner of the Police Intervention Unit (PIU), stated that the training is part of ongoing police reform programs and highlighted the importance of transforming the police to be more professional.
“As police officers, we interact with people daily, and often, knowingly or unknowingly, we violate their rights… we must not continue with business as usual. We need to change.
Take this program seriously to understand people’s rights and how to avoid violating those rights,” he stated.
Commissioner Basangeh reminded the officers of their responsibility to protect people’s rights at all costs and encouraged participants to be attentive, ask questions, and seek clarity on any uncertainties regarding the Prevention of Torture Act.
On 8 June 2025, Mr. Ousman F. M’Bai wrote an open letter to Woodside Energy as a concerned Gambian and in the name of stakeholders in the MSGBC basin, raising serious questions about the integrity of FAR Ltd.’s drilling operations in The Gambia and the possible implications for resource governance, transboundary equity, and regional trust. The letter set out clear, factual grounds for concern, accompanied by four direct questions inviting clarification.
On 13 June 2025, Woodside Energy responded. Regrettably, that response fails to engage with the substance of the letter. Instead, it simply reiterates the company’s long-held position that it “did not acquire FAR’s Gambian acreage” without addressing any of the issues raised.
This is not a neutral omission. It is a refusal to address three deeply troubling realities:
1. The Proximity Risk Was Real. FAR Ltd.’s Gambian operations (Blocks A2 and A5) directly abutted Senegal’s Sangomar field, in which Woodside acquired FAR’s stake for over half a billion dollars in value. The geophysical proximity and publicly declared “reservoir equivalence” between Bambo-1 and Sangomar demand serious risk assessment, which Woodside has conspicuously refused to confirm was ever undertaken.
2. The Governance Vacuum Was Known. FAR Ltd exited The Gambia without fulfilling its licence obligations, receiving waivers and concessions that defy standard regulatory practice. Woodside, operating in the same basin, cannot credibly claim to be unaware of this, nor immune to its implications for the legitimacy of the asset it acquired.
3. Due Diligence Is an ESG Obligation. As a self-declared ESG-compliant corporation, Woodside has a heightened duty to ensure that its acquisitions do not inadvertently perpetuate the exploitation of under-resourced jurisdictions. Repeating a corporate line without disclosing whether any due diligence was done falls short of that standard.
By publishing both the original letter and Woodside’s response side by side, we invite readers—Gambians, Senegalese, investors, and international observers alike—to ask: Is this the transparency and responsibility we expect from energy majors operating in our region?
This conduct is akin to a suspect giving ‘no comment answers’ while being interviewed by Police under caution.
Woodside Energy may have dismissed its obligations to provide clarity. But we will not dismiss our duty to demand answers.
OPEN LETTER TO WOODSIDE ENERGY
OFFICE OF OUSMAN F. M’BAI
C/O FANA FANA CHAMBERS, Banjul, The Gambia
Date: 8th June 2025 Our Ref: OFM/08/06/25/Woodside Energy.
Open Letter to the Board and ESG Officers of Woodside Energy Ltd. Re: Ethical Accountability in the MSGBC Basin and FAR Ltd.’s Gambian Operations.
To: The Board of Directors
Woodside Energy Ltd
Mia Yellagonga
11 Mount Street
Perth WA 6000
Australia
Attention: Ms Lianne O’Leary, Head of Legal – Mergers & Acquisitions
Dear Board Members,
I write as a concerned citizen of The Gambia and a legal practitioner committed to anti-corruption and the transparent governance of natural resources in West Africa. My concern relates to the transparency and accountability failures surrounding FAR Ltd.’s operations in The Gambia’s offshore Blocks A2 and A5 between 2017 and its formal withdrawal in 2023.
On 28 August 2024, The Fatu Network wrote directly to Woodside Energy querying whether the company had conducted any due diligence into the risk that FAR Ltd had compromised the integrity or commercial viability of The Gambia’s offshore oil wells. The reply received from Mr Dan Pagoda on 2 September 2024 stated that Woodside “did not purchase FAR’s assets in The Gambia” and referred to your ASX announcement of 3 December 2020 concerning the Sangomar transaction. However, the response did not clarify whether any risk-based due diligence was undertaken regarding FAR Ltd’s closely adjacent Gambian operations, despite their potential geotechnical relevance to the Sangomar acquisition.
It is now established that FAR Gambia Ltd a wholly owned subsidiary of FAR Ltd was permitted by the Gambia Petroleum Commission to relinquish its licences in Blocks A2 and A5 without penalty following two successive Deeds of Amendment in 2022 and 2023. These instruments waived all residual work obligations and relieved FAR Gambia Ltd. of any financial liabilities. This occurred at a time when FAR Ltd. was in default of its capital-call obligations to Woodside, risking forfeiture of its 13% stake in Sangomar. That same stake was sold to Woodside Energy for a reported US $121 million, with a further contingent payment of US $55 million, and a cumulative transaction value exceeding US $500 million when debt assumption is included.
Public filings by FAR Ltd. on the Australia Securities Exchange in August 2022 stated that hydrocarbons encountered in its Bambo-1 well at the S440 and S408 levels “extend into The Gambia” and are “lateral equivalents” of the productive Sangomar reservoirs. However, FAR Ltd. then characterised the same zones as having “no direct commercial significance,” citing alleged poor reservoir quality and unsuccessful oil sampling conclusions that remain unverifiable due to the absence of publicly released pressure data, MDT logs, or seismic interpretations. This opacity is compounded by the Gambia Petroleum Commission’s refusal to disclose any of these materials in response to formal information requests filed under the Access to Information Act 2021.
Further exacerbating concerns is the fact that in late 2023 shortly before FAR’s surrender of the blocks the Government of The Gambia enacted the Petroleum (Exploration, Development and Production) Block Demarcation Regulation, 2023. This instrument quietly redefined the offshore boundary coordinates of A2 and A5. Early analysis suggests that the demarcation appears to reduce the acreage of Block A2 precisely in the deepwater region where it meets the Sangomar field. No technical justification for this change has been made public. This raises legitimate questions about whether The Gambia has tacitly surrendered marine territory or allowed transboundary field connectivity to shift to Senegal’s benefit without any formal resource-sharing arrangement, unlike Senegal’s agreements with Mauritania and Guinea-Bissau.
As an ESG-rated multinational operating in a basin with high geological connectivity, limited regulatory transparency, and significant geopolitical sensitivity, Woodside Energy has a duty of care that extends beyond its narrow contractual transactions. The fact that Sangomar’s 23 wells many separated by vast distances are considered geologically connected undermines the suggestion that FAR Ltd.’s exploration data in neighbouring A2/A5 was irrelevant to your acquisition risk modelling.
In light of the above, I respectfully request that Woodside Energy Ltd:
Disclose whether any due diligence was undertaken in relation to FAR Ltd.’s activities in The Gambia during your acquisition of its Sangomar interest;
Confirm whether FAR Ltd. provided any well data, seismic analysis, or internal assessments from its Gambian blocks, and if not, why such data were not sought;
Clarify what representations, if any, were made by FAR Ltd. concerning its Gambian operations and relinquishment terms in the context of the transaction;
State whether Woodside has discussed or analysed the implications of the 2023 Gambia Block Demarcation Regulation and its possible effect on the maritime boundaries with Senegal and field connectivity;
Outline whether Woodside has engaged with the Governments of The Gambia or Senegal on any unitisation prospects or shared-resource frameworks consistent with the United Nations Law of the Sea Convention.
Should Woodside continue to maintain that it bears no responsibility for the governance risks emerging from FAR Ltd.’s conduct in the MSGBC basin, your shareholders, the international ESG community, and the wider West African public are entitled to a full and reasoned explanation.
In the interest of transparency and responsible resource stewardship, this letter will be made public two days from today unless otherwise advised.
Yours sincerely,
Ousman F. M’Bai
WOODSIDE ENERGY’S RESPONSE
Woodside Energy Ltd.
Perth WA, Australia
www.woodside.com
13 June 2025
Attn: Ousman F. M’Bai
C/O Fana Fana Chambers
Banjul, The Gambia
Dear Mr M’Bai
RE: WOODSIDE’S ACQUISITION OF FAR SENEGAL’S INTEREST IN THE RUFISQUE, SANGOMAR AND SANGOMAR DEEP JOINT VENTURE
I confirm that we have received your letter dated 8 June 2025.
As Company Secretary of Woodside Energy Ltd, I would be grateful if you would kindly allow me to respond on behalf of the Board of Directors.
In December 2020, Woodside exercised pre-emption rights to acquire FAR Senegal RSSD SA’s participating interest in the Rufisque, Sangomar and Sangomar Deep (RSSD) joint venture. The transaction completed in 2021 and is not in any way related to any of FAR’s assets in The Gambia. Further details can be found in our announcement released to the Australian Securities Exchange on 3 December 2020.
Yours sincerely
Damien Gare
Vice President & Group Company Secretary
The Deputy Managing Director of the National Roads Authority (NRA), Sulayman Sumareh Janneh, has lauded Gambian contractors for demonstrating impressive innovation, technical know-how, and commitment to quality in the ongoing EPC Lot 1 and Lot 2 projects across the Central and Upper River Regions.
During an inspection tour led by the Minister of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure, Hon. Ebrima Sillah, Janneh expressed satisfaction with the progress and workmanship displayed by local engineers and contractors on these vital road corridors.
“My impression has been good,” Janneh stated.
“This is a contractor that’s Gambian [and] understands the methods and innovation required for constructing durable roads. From what we are seeing, they are even ahead of schedule, which is impressive.”
He emphasized the importance of delivering not just roads, but quality roads that can serve the country for decades.
“When you look at the quality of work they are doing, it’s commendable. The contractor is ensuring all critical standards are met through rigorous testing. He has also personally assured that Gambians will receive the good and durable roads they deserve,” Janneh noted.
He further disclosed that the contractors are building for longevity, with the roads designed to last at least 20 years. “In addition to the main pavement works, they are also investing in proper drainage systems to protect the roads from erosion and environmental damage, which is critical in this region,” Janneh explained.
“It is a great honor to have met Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Changsha,” said Musa Darboe, a farmer from The Gambia, as he walked out of the Changsha International Conference Center in central China with a beaming smile at around 8 p.m. on June 11.
Wang Yi told Musa that his success story was another fine example of China-Africa friendship and a vivid illustration of China-Africa cooperation. An important focus of China’s friendship with African countries, he said, is to seek the well-being of ordinary African people. China will continue to adhere to the principle of pursuing the greater good and shared interest put forward by President Xi Jinping, practice a people-centered approach in Africa, and do more good deeds and practical work for the African people.
Wang Yi noted that the more success stories like Musa’s there are, the more the power of China-Africa friendship can be gathered, and the more promising Africa’s independent development and the better the lives of its people will be.
A Life Transformed by a Single Seed
The 47-year-old Musa is the owner of Mano Farm in The Gambia. He was once a telecommunications engineer in the United States earning an annual salary of $100,000, but his life took a dramatic turn because of a single seed.
In 2019, following his father’s passing, Musa returned to The Gambia to inherit the family farm—only to face immense challenges. At the time, The Gambia relied on imports for 80% of its rice, and traditional farming methods were inefficient. With no technical guidance, he cultivated just three hectares of rice in his first year, resorting to primitive methods like “threshing rice with oil drums.”
“The harvest season coincided with the rainy season, and much of the rice was soaked and sprouted, resulting in heavy losses,” he recalled.
Just as he was about to give up, Huang Zhi, a Chinese agricultural expert leading the Longping Hi-Tech team, arrived in The Gambia.
Driven by a desire to alleviate his hometown’s food shortages, Musa became an overseas student of the late Academician Yuan Longping and traveled to Hunan multiple times to learn advanced agricultural techniques.
When the first rice transplanter arrived at his farm, Musa marveled, “This is a miracle my father’s generation could never have imagined.”
With the support of Chinese agricultural experts, Musa’s farm expanded from three hectares to a 100-hectare core area in just five years, serving surrounding farmers across 2,000 hectares. Production shifted from manual threshing to full mechanization, with yields soaring to an average of about seven tons per hectare—two to three times the local average.
“I Want to Walk the Ridges Yuan Once Walked”
In July 2024, a Hunan Daily reporting team arrived in The Gambia for a multimedia project titled Friends & Partners. Musa presented them with a bag of rice, asking the journalists to “take it back to Hunan and offer it to Academician Yuan Longping.”
In March this year, at a press conference during the Third Session of the 14th National People’s Congress, Foreign Minister Wang Yi cited Musa’s story to illustrate China-Africa cooperation: “Last year, a Gambian farmer sent his homegrown rice to Hunan as a tribute to Mr. Yuan Longping. Thanks to China’s hybrid rice, they have bid farewell to hunger and embraced hope. Stories like this are happening almost every day across Africa.”
May 22 marked the fourth anniversary of Yuan Longping’s passing. From afar in Africa, Musa posted a tribute video on social media, expressing his wish: “I hope to set foot on Hunan soil again, to walk the ridges Yuan once walked, and to touch the rice stalks he once held.”
On June 10, Musa finally realized his dream. Arriving in Hunan to attend the Fourth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, the Gambian farmer carried a bag of his homegrown rice across mountains and seas. On the morning of June 11, he paid a special visit to Yuan Longping’s tomb to honor his memory.
Empowering Gambian Youth in the Fields of the Future
“At the reception for the 25th anniversary of FOCAC and the Fourth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, I expressed my gratitude to Foreign Minister Wang Yi and shared how Longping Hi-Tech experts helped us mechanize production, increase rice yields, and completely rewrite The Gambia’s rice farming history,” Musa told reporters. “Minister Wang praised my story as ‘another beautiful chapter in China-Africa friendship.'”
Musa said, “I must give my deepest thanks to China and to Academician Yuan Longping!”
“In the past, young people in my hometown avoided farming at all costs. But the roar of machinery changed everything. When they saw that sitting in a tractor cab could do the work of dozens, their eyes lit up. Now, they’re competing to learn how to operate and repair farm machinery—farming is becoming cool,” he said, describing the scene of local youth crowding around Chinese technicians to learn agricultural machinery. “That’s the warmest embrace of modern farming.”
“If China-Gambia cooperation deepens, we can absolutely change the fate of more Gambian youth, helping them find dignity and a future in the rice fields,” Musa added.
He shared his vision for the future: “We aim to develop more land, targeting 10,000 hectares of fully mechanized farming. This is the ‘golden key’ to achieving national food self-sufficiency and securing our food future.”
As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen The Gambia’s climate resilience and push for greater climate justice, ActionAid The Gambia has launched a daylong training workshop targeting national civil society organisations (CSOs). The workshop marks the first step in preparations for an upcoming national dialogue focused on climate financing and mitigation.
Held in Kanifing, the session brought together representatives from various CSOs across the country, aiming to build their capacity to meaningfully contribute to discussions on climate finance and advocate for equitable climate action. Participants explored key concepts around climate budgeting, financing mechanisms, and international accountability.
Fafa O. Cham, the Head of Programmes and Policy for ActionAid The Gambia, highlighted that The Gambia contributes less than 0.01% of global emissions but bears a disproportionate share of the impact from climate change.
“Our government is spending millions of dollars trying to build the resilience of vulnerable farmers and mitigate climate change, even though we contribute very minimally in terms of emissions. The whole of Africa is responsible for about 4%, yet we bear the brunt of the impact. African countries are taking loans to finance these efforts. It is high time we hold those responsible for climate change accountable for their actions. So how can that happen? It is through you, me, and everyone else coming together and raising our voices. We hope it will bring change,” he stated.
Cham explained that the national dialogue, expected to take place later this year, will convene a wide range of stakeholders including government officials, foreign embassies, development partners, and international NGOs.
“Our aim is to host a national dialogue with ministers, permanent secretaries, ambassadors, heads of embassies, and various agencies in attendance,” he outlined.
Despite contributing very little to global carbon emissions, The Gambia remains highly vulnerable to the devastating effects of climate change. From rising sea levels to erratic rainfall and land degradation, the country faces growing environmental threats that demand increased international support.
Aja Fatou Bah, Programme Assistant at WANEP The Gambia and a participant at the workshop, noted the importance and timeliness of the training.
“Yes, the training is actually timely,” she said, emphasizing that climate change is everyone’s responsibility regardless of age, sector, or gender—even though the country emits less.
“We still have a long way to go, and each of us has a key role to play in ensuring the impacts aren’t too severe. Even though our emissions are relatively low, we end up bearing the brunt of the consequences. If you look closely, the countries responsible for the highest emissions often don’t experience the full impact. Instead, it’s the more vulnerable communities—like ours—that feel it the most. That’s why it’s so important for us to find ways to mitigate these effects, especially for those in our communities who are most at risk,” she stated.
Lamin Dibba, Executive Director of the Centre for Democratic Economic Transparency—a civil society organisation that conducts microeconomic research and promotes transparency—spoke on the government’s efforts in climate mitigation, adaptation, and addressing loss and damage. However, he pointed out existing gaps in public knowledge about how much is actually being spent.
“So probably even at the government level, I don’t think the systems—like the IFMIS system—sufficiently capture the funding allocated toward climate change mitigation and adaptation. That’s one gap. The other is a general issue—not just limited to climate change—but across almost every sector of the economy, which is a funding deficit,” he noted.
ActionAid The Gambia is positioning this dialogue as a platform not only to engage national actors but also to call on wealthy, high-emission countries to honor their commitments to climate finance. The event aims to amplify the demand for climate reparations and support the global push to hold major polluters accountable for the damage caused to low-emission, frontline nations like The Gambia.
