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China-Africa Cooperation: Cultivating Hope and Future in The Gambia’s Rice Fields

“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.”

Building Voices for Climate Justice: ActionAid Launches National Dialogue Prep

By: Alieu Jallow

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.

Banjul South NAM Raises Concern Over Finance Minister’s Quarterly Budget Performance Report

By Mama A. Touray

After the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Seedy Keita, submitted the first quarter budget performance report to the National Assembly, Tuma Njie, the National Assembly Member for Banjul South, expressed concerns about the report.

Njie urged the Minister to provide a more detailed budget performance analysis in the future. While speaking, he appealed to Minister Keita to prepare a breakdown of the report instead of just a summary.

“I will appeal to the minister [to] send the breakdown of the individual ministries’ expenditure so that we can monitor as per our committees to make sure that what they were allocated and approved has been given accordingly,” she said

Njie stated that during each bilateral meeting, ministers express that they have underperformed in their ministries because the allocations are not provided on time.

She also mentioned that since it is now the second quarter and the minister is presenting the report for the first quarter, it would have been more effective if he had combined the reports for both the first and second quarters, along with a detailed breakdown of expenditures for the various ministries.

Njie further emphasised that this is a summary report. As per the provision, the minister should present a comprehensive statement on the entire implementation and monitoring process, rather than just a summary report.

“For a whole government, we are in the sixth month of the year, to come and give us a report in seven pages is concerning. I think we expect a thorough statement next time. I am appealing to the minister when he comes, let him give us a thorough statement because some of us are not financially learned; so, we need an explanation in everything,” she said.

Njie, however, praised the minister’s effort in putting the spending in a table form, naming it “a consolidated table, quarter one actual and quarter two budget, fine, which is excellent, but we need a breakdown.”

“If you say actual, each minister is allocated a budget. We need to know, for example, how the Ministry of Gender is struggling: what they have been allocated, how far they have implemented it, what is allocated, and the challenges. This way, we can have mitigating factors to help them,” she told the minister.

Njie continued, “You don’t have to wait until the end of the year to tell us that our women are suffering because we did not have money. Please give us a full report so that we can have a real understanding of how our people are suffering, enabling us to help them suffer less.”

Njie also referenced the standing order, which states that the minister should come at least once every session to report to the assembly.

“I recall that for the 2024 budget, even though it has been passed, he did not report to us. He needs to monitor every government expenditure whenever and wherever. So, we are appealing that he comes at least every session. We had an extraordinary session, and he did not give us a report, and it states that every session, including an extraordinary session, is a session,” Njie said.

Meanwhile, Tuma expressed concern about total tax revenue, stating, “The fact that the total revenue for taxes has gone up and the implications are not good for our citizens because it means that the citizens are paying more in taxes. The standard of living is also very expensive, and the fact that the non-tax revenue has underperformed is also not good because it means that there is a lack of foresight and initiative within this government to ensure that there are alternatives.”

She added, “So the only means of revenue is to milk the citizens of this country, which I think we should try to change so that we can provide our people with a better standard of living.”

In response to the concerns raised by Njie, Minister Keita said, “Our understanding of the standing order request is that the oral intervention and, in such a type of financial intervention, is not a financial statement presentation. This is very typical even in the corporate world, where you give quarterly briefings, and in this presentation format, you don’t blow it out to pages.”

Keita explained further that quarterly presentations are done in June, which, he said, is not yet due. “Normally, you present the June quarter in the months of July and August, but we will endeavour during ordinary sessions of the assembly to come and brief the assembly on the implementation and monitoring of the budget.”

Responding to the tax collection issue, Keita explained, “In terms of tax collection, claiming that we are taxing the Gambian people more, I think that’s quite the opposite of what has happened. If you look at the income tax bracket this year, we have moved the tax bracket base starting from D24,000. Previously, if your earnings were up to D24,000, then tax would kick in, but we have moved that to D36,000.”

Keita said they have provided every Gambian citizen or employee with an additional D12,000 in tax-free income. “So, it doesn’t represent that we are taxing people. The Sub-Saharan African average tax-to-revenue GDP ratio is 16%; we are at 10-11%, which means we are below the Sub-Saharan Africa average in terms of tax burden.”

Ida Jobe: The Young Woman Who Dared to Challenge Gender and Nationality Stereotypes in Bani Ward

By Alieu Jallow

In 2023, 25-year-old Ida Jobe boldly entered the male-dominated political arena by contending for the councillorship of Bani Ward in the Central River Region North under the National People’s Party (NPP) banner, standing out as the only female candidate among three male opponents, despite facing numerous challenges along the way.

Speaking to The Fatu Network during Activista The Gambia’s capacity-building session on Inclusive Representation and the Review of the District Tribunals Act, she recounted the barriers she faced not just as a woman, but as someone labelled an outsider.

Despite being born and raised in the region, Ida was subjected to identity-based attacks that questioned her right to contest. The accusations, she believes, were meant to undermine her credibility and discourage voters from supporting her.

“I was elbowed, discriminated against, labelled as a mother, and even called a foreigner. Some people went as far as claiming I wasn’t Gambian but Senegalese,” she said.

Still, Ida says what drove her wasn’t just political ambition, but a desire to shift perceptions for young women in rural Gambia.

“I wanted to change the narrative and show that women can lead too, especially at the grassroots level where decisions directly affect families and communities,” she said.

Ida’s campaign focused on inclusion and representation. She advocated for better access to services, support for women and youth, and greater transparency in local governance. Though she did not win the election, she believes her candidacy was a breakthrough.

“I may not have secured the seat, but I sparked conversations and challenged norms. That, to me, is progress. In the next election, I will contest either for Parliament or councilorship,” she confirmed.

In places like Bani Ward, where tradition often overshadows change, Ida Jobe’s courage to stand tall against prejudice is a powerful reminder that political participation should not be limited by gender or assumptions of identity. Her story adds to the growing call for a more inclusive and equitable political space for women in The Gambia.

Minister Sillah Assesses Rural Road Progress in Nationwide Infrastructure Drive

By Michaella Faith Wright

The Minister of Transport, Works and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah, has continued his nationwide infrastructure tour, stopping in several regions to assess the progress of key road projects that aim to boost connectivity, ease mobility, and improve the economic livelihood of rural communities.

The minister, accompanied by senior officials from the ministry and the National Road Authority, began the inspection in the North Bank Region, where significant work is ongoing on the 84.5 km Niumi Hakalang Loop. The first section, Buniadu–Kuntaya, spanning 55.7 km, is fully completed, marking a major milestone for residents who have long struggled with poor road access.

At Albreda–Faas Omar Saho, the second section covers 15.14 km, and construction is nearing completion, with 76.2% of the base course laid. Locals expressed satisfaction with the developments, noting that improved roads will reduce travel time and enhance safety, especially during the rainy season.

Section three, Bangally–Bafuloto (13.71 km), is now fully finished with double surface dressing completed. Residents like Kabba Conteh and Fatou Sowe welcomed the project, emphasising how it will ease market access for farmers and fisherfolk in the area.
Deputy Governor of North Bank Region, Dembo Samateh, lauded the government’s focus on rural development and confirmed plans for upcoming inaugurations in Hakalang and Salikenni.

The minister’s delegation is now pushing further inland to the Central River and Upper River Regions, where additional road projects are underway. Minister Sillah reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing all phases on schedule, assuring citizens that road infrastructure remains a top priority in the drive for national development.

Minister Sillah Assesses Rural Road Progress in Nationwide Infrastructure Drive

By: Michaella Faith Wright

The Minister of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure, Hon. Ebrima Sillah, has continued his nationwide infrastructure tour with stops across several regions to assess the progress of key road projects aimed at boosting connectivity, easing mobility, and improving the economic livelihood of rural communities.

The minister, accompanied by senior officials from the ministry and the National Roads Authority, began the inspection in the North Bank Region, where significant work is ongoing on the 84.5 km Niumi Hakalang Loop. The first section, Buniadu–Kuntaya, spanning 55.7 km, is fully completed—marking a major milestone for residents who have long struggled with poor road access.

At Albreda–Faas Omar Saho, the second section covering 15.14 km, construction is nearing completion, with 76.2% of the base course laid. Locals expressed satisfaction with the developments, noting that improved roads will reduce travel time and enhance safety, especially during the rainy season.

Section three, Bangally–Bafuloto (13.71 km), is now fully completed, with double surface dressing finished. Residents like Kabba Conteh and Fatou Sowe welcomed the project, emphasizing how it will ease market access for farmers and fisherfolk in the area.

The Deputy Governor of the North Bank Region, Dembo Samateh, lauded the government’s focus on rural development and confirmed plans for upcoming inaugurations in Hakalang and Salikenni.

The minister’s delegation is now pushing further inland to the Central River and Upper River Regions, where additional road projects are underway. Minister Sillah reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing all phases on schedule, assuring citizens that road infrastructure remains a top priority in the drive for national development.

Young Gambian Entrepreneur Redefines Transport with Sunu Transit

By: Michaella Faith Wright

Aji Ndey Cham, a young entrepreneur from The Gambia, is transforming the country’s transport sector through her woman-led business, Sunu Transit.

What began as a side hustle with just D265 has grown into a reputable transportation company. For over a year and three months, Cham managed every aspect of the business alone before expanding to a team of three—demonstrating her dedication and drive.

Based in Bakoteh Layout, Sunu Transit aims to simplify transportation for Gambians by offering affordable, reliable, and efficient services. The company aspires to become the country’s most trusted provider of vehicle rentals and transport solutions.

Sunu Transit offers car rentals for short-term needs—such as travel or while waiting for vehicle repairs—as well as a multi-brand car dealership that helps customers avoid common risks like purchasing stolen or high-maintenance vehicles.

For those who don’t drive or prefer not to own a car, the company also provides a premium taxi service that is more affordable and comfortable than traditional public transport.

Cham’s journey highlights the potential for young Gambians to innovate and lead in vital sectors like transportation.

“We Will Not Permit Our Tanbi-Wetlands to Be Destroyed”: Banjul North NAM Modou Lamin Bah Raises Alarm Over Environmental Damage

By: Dawda Baldeh

Modou Lamin Bah, the National Assembly Member for Banjul North, has expressed concern over the ongoing environmental damage at the Tanbi Wetlands, located on the outskirts of Banjul. The area is vital for safeguarding the city against flooding and other natural disasters.

In 2022, following significant flash floods that affected numerous families in Banjul and surrounding areas, the government promptly suspended construction activities at the site to reduce harm. However, Bah believes that the same government that chose to halt construction at the Tanbi Wetlands is now accountable for the current destruction.

He recalled that the 2022 flooding in Banjul was caused by illegal construction activities at the Tanbi Wetlands, inadequate drainage and sewage systems, as well as the malfunctioning of the bund polder station (Pa Machine). “Unfortunately, this destructive activity is still occurring at the Tanbi Wetlands today,” he said. “They are intentionally cutting down and damaging the mangrove ecosystem and backfilling the wetland with rocks, stones, and sand near the bund polder station (Pa Machine) without proper communication regarding their intentions for the area.”

Like many others, Bah warned that such actions will further endanger Banjul. “Both the central and local governments tasked with protecting the Tanbi Wetlands are not taking sufficient measures to safeguard it,” he asserted. He emphasized that those responsible for the destruction are collaborating with the authorities.

“I reached out to several organizations, including the National Environment Agency, to determine whether they were aware of the situation and who is responsible for the destruction of the wetland, but they promised to follow up with me. I am still waiting with my community to figure out our next steps,” he added.

The Banjul North lawmaker called for an immediate cessation of these activities. “We will not permit our Tanbi Wetlands to be destroyed in this manner. Let’s contribute to the solution rather than the destruction,” he stressed. He pledged to continue advocating in parliament and engaging the appropriate authorities to tackle the issue.

Chaos Erupts at Basse NYC Congress Amidst Arrest of Congress Delegate

By Dawda Baldeh

At the ongoing Regional Youth Congress in Basse, chaos erupted following the arrest of one Omar Drammeh, a Cannon Youth Development Association representative who also serves as a congress delegate.

Drammeh, who also serves as the chairperson of Activista URR, was arrested following an altercation that erupted overnight due to alleged election irregularities by the National Youth Council and the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

He condemned what he described as an unlawful arrest, physical abuse, and torture that he endured at the hands of security forces during the Basse NYC congress on Saturday.

“I was arrested, tortured, and maltreated after speaking out against election malpractice involving local registered youth groups,” Mr. Drammeh said.

Drammeh’s arrest was connected to the chaos that erupted during the congress as various delegates raised alarms regarding serious irregularities in the ongoing youth electoral process.

In a statement obtained by The Fatu Network, Drammeh claimed that some youth groups forged certificates to participate in the congress oversight by the National Youth Council and the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

According to him, the exposure of these irregularities is backed by “verifiable documentation” and told the NYC that the congress cannot proceed if the 26 flagged certificates are accepted to vote.

“During this push and pull, the PIU Commander intervened and made a final decision that the congress shall be conducted whether we like it or not.

“I interjected his speech and to him that we were not listening. Immediately after speaking, I was subjected to an arrest without any crime,” he said.

He added: “I was physically assaulted and tortured while I was taken out of the hall to police custody.”

A video clip obtained by The Fatu Network shows how PIU officers forcefully arrested Drammeh and put him behind a pickup truck.

“They used their baton to hit my head multiple times, dragged me on the floor to the vehicle, strangled my neck, and even put their hands inside my underwear,” Drammeh recounted.

He condemned these actions as a blatant violation of human rights and an attack on democratic principles, including freedom of expression and the right to participate in transparent governance processes.

“Despite the gravity of the fraud, the final decision by the authorities allowed 14 of those individuals to proceed and vote, while 12 were disqualified,” he revealed.

According to a post on Basse Multimedia, Drammeh was charged with prohibition of conduct conducive to breach of peace and was later released on bail.

However, The Fatu Network couldn’t obtain a comment from the police by the time of this publication.

The Air India Tragedy

By: Momodou Ndow

Life is fleeting. We are all living until, suddenly, we are not. One moment you’re alive, full of plans and laughter, and the next, you’re gone. None of us knows how or when our time will come.

I can’t help but deeply feel the anguish, sorrow, and pain the victims’ families must be enduring. If you contrast the images of passengers joyfully boarding the flight, smiling with their loved ones, with the reports of them screaming in terror moments before the crash, your heart sinks.

How many of us have screamed during turbulence on a flight? Most of us have, and lived to tell the story. But for those on that Air India flight, it ended in tragedy.

Technology allows us to share our lives in real time, and some of the passengers were doing just that—capturing joyful moments—right before their dreams and lives were cut short. Can you imagine the shock and grief their loved ones must be feeling? Life is both beautiful and brutally cruel!

As I look at the photo of the doctor and his family, my mind races. Their children were likely imagining their new life in Derby—new friends, new school, new beginnings. The parents, no doubt, were thinking about how best to guide and protect them as they started fresh in a new country. Perhaps they even dreamed of their children becoming doctors too.

That should give all of us a sobering perspective on life.

Reflect on the past, plan for the future, but most importantly, live in the present. With all the struggles we face, embracing the moment gives us the balance and resilience to move forward with grace. We don’t know when life will end, but we can make it meaningful by truly living while we’re here.

My deepest condolences to their loved ones during this time of profound sorrow. I hope they find strength and healing in the days and months ahead. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace.

UDP Rift Widens as Mayors Clash Over Party Loyalty, Tribal Politics, and Leadership Direction

By: Alieu Jallow

The United Democratic Party (UDP), the country’s leading opposition force, is facing fresh internal tensions following a series of public comments by some of its most prominent mayors and supporters. The rift comes in the wake of a leaked audio recording in which party leader Ousainou Darboe allegedly acknowledged the UDP’s internal division into three camps: his own, that of Talib Bensouda, and another aligned with Yankuba Darboe.

Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe of Banjul, in a blistering appearance on Eye Africa TV, rejected claims that she leads a separate camp.

“I do not have a camp; I belong to the Ousainou camp. If there’s any camp, then it’s Ousainou Darboe and Talib Bensouda who have camps—and I belong to Ousainou’s camp. If Ousainou Darboe divides his camp into two and then aligns one to Rohey Malick Lowe, then that’s up to him, for he knows that I do not belong to any camp,” she stated.

Lowe stressed that she is “allergic to camps,” adding, “I fight my battles alone.” The Banjul mayor also explained her decision to stop attending UDP executive meetings, pointing fingers at the party’s failure to condemn alleged defamatory remarks made by Mark Janneh against her.

She expressed deep frustration over what she sees as the executive’s silence on the issue, despite multiple press conferences and statements. “None of which condemned Mark Janneh’s derogatory remarks,” she said, adding that the party’s inaction almost cost her her marriage.

Meanwhile, Mayor Talib Bensouda of the Kanifing Municipal Council broke his silence to address rising tribal rhetoric within party ranks. Though previously quiet, Bensouda took to social media to deliver a firm rebuke of tribal politics, calling on all UDP factions to unite for the greater good.

“I hate discussing tribal politics or tribal talks, so I’m talking to all UDP members—pro-Talib, UDP supporters, pro-Ousainou supporters—we are all one family. Whoever we are, let’s try and talk about the advancement of our party policy or party manifesto. How do we win 2026? How do we develop The Gambia?”

He called on Gambians to put an end to tribal narratives.

“Please, Gambians, let us seize and stop talking about tribe. Support people through their character, support their development and track records. Never discuss tribe. This conversation must stop—it has destroyed this country and brought a lot of problems.”

Shifting focus, Bensouda highlighted the country’s worsening economic situation, citing a national cement shortage and the rising cost of living as issues deserving attention from all opposition leaders.

“Right now, things are very difficult for Gambians across the board. Cement is D500, and it’s not even available—a big shortage. This is what the opposition should be talking about. How do we allow a whole country like The Gambia to have a cement shortage? The cost of living is rising—bags of rice and other basic commodities are getting harder to afford, especially for poor people. This is what we have to discuss.”

Namana Keita, a staunch UDP supporter and former journalist, added another layer to the conversation through a Facebook post, warning against relying on ethnic majoritarianism in a diverse electoral landscape.

“With Mandinkas making up just 34.4% of the population—at least 10% of whom support Barrow and the NPP—and Fulas at a significant 25%, along with Wolofs at 15.4%, in a country that practices a simple majority voting system, only a fool would believe that an exclusive Mandinka-based group—especially one that openly shows its distrust of others—can ever win a presidential election in The Gambia. You will never stand a chance.”

Keita described what he sees as the party’s “Talib dilemma,” warning that bypassing Bensouda for Yankuba Darboe could backfire at the polls.

“Any attempt to leapfrog Yanks over Talib would be widely perceived and resoundingly countered at the polls as a Mandinka ‘fassa,’ especially when it was Talib who first proved his political mettle before Yanks.”

Keita argued that the UDP has a clear path to victory in 2026 by nominating Bensouda, aligning with a credible party like the GDC, and enforcing term limits.

“By the time term-limited Talib has completed his second term, Yanks will only be in his early 50s and well-positioned, seasoned, and ready to take the baton. With the advantage of incumbency and a growing base of educated and energetic youth, UDP could realistically govern The Gambia for the next 100 years.”

Ismaila Fadera, a young UDP leader, chimed in with a call for internal discipline and purpose-driven organizing.

“You want reform? Organize. Mobilize. Stand for something beyond posts and tantrums. What we won’t tolerate is this new brand of political indiscipline masked as ‘outspokenness.’ There’s a difference between holding leadership accountable and publicly disrespecting the very house that made you relevant.”

As the 2026 elections approach, the growing public rift within the UDP raises questions about the party’s unity and its ability to present a strong challenge to the ruling National People’s Party (NPP). Whether the party can reconcile its internal divisions or allow them to fester remains to be seen.

Stuck in Place: Gambia’s Unseen Migration Crisis of Involuntary Immobility

By: Alieu Jallow

While images of overcrowded boats crossing the Mediterranean often dominate global migration narratives, a quieter and more insidious crisis is unfolding in The Gambia. Dubbed “involuntary immobility,” it refers to the growing number of young Gambians who desperately want to migrate but lack the means to do so. According to migration expert Muhammed Lamin Dibba, this phenomenon is fueling a national crisis of youth unemployment and social decay.

“Involuntary immobility represents an equally pressing yet overlooked crisis affecting The Gambia,” Dibba writes in a recent expert opinion. “This phenomenon has profound consequences, not least of which is fueling a burgeoning youth unemployment crisis that threatens the very fabric of Gambian society.”

Historically, The Gambia has been part of a vibrant cross-border economy. “The Gambia has been a dynamic economic unit for West African countries,” Dibba notes, pointing to long-standing migration flows with Senegal and Mauritania. But today, economic stagnation, lack of job prospects, and limited educational opportunities have rendered these traditional migration routes unattainable for many.

The desire to leave, especially for Europe, is strong. However, Dibba highlights that “for a generation, these aspirations remain unfulfilled,” referencing sociologist Hein de Haas’s work on involuntary immobility—a condition where people have the will but not the means to migrate.

“These young potential migrants grow increasingly impatient with their circumstances at home. Most of them have no other alternatives, such as pursuing education, starting a business, or pursuing an apprenticeship,” Dibba states.

The fallout is visible and alarming.

“The shattered aspiration to migrate for a better life has given rise to a wave of social vices such as theft, murder, and suicide,” Dibba warns.

In Brikama, the epicenter of the crisis, 21.7% of youth are unemployed, despite the region housing nearly half (46.3%) of the country’s working-age population.

“Brikama alone accounts for the highest number of emigrants,” Dibba adds, citing 13,768 who used irregular routes and 7,698 who left through legal channels.

Understanding the Unemployment Trap

The root causes are complex, but Dibba identifies three major culprits:
Skills Mismatch:
“Many young graduates are ready to enter the labor market, but the skills they’ve acquired often don’t align with available jobs,” he writes.
Weak Entrepreneurial Ecosystem:
“An outdated school curriculum that neglects vocational, practical, and employability training” is leaving students unprepared for real-world demands.
Governance Deficits:
Dibba criticizes political leaders for neglecting youth needs. “The pursuit of power retention and personal enrichment at the expense of national development leaves little room for initiatives that could genuinely empower young people,” he states.

Charting a Way Forward

To tackle this growing crisis, Dibba recommends a multi-layered approach.

“The young Gambian citizens need an early orientation about citizenship, patriotism, and the importance of education for self and country,” he writes, calling for curriculum reform to incorporate employability and entrepreneurship training.

Even existing initiatives need improvement.

“Even projects like the EU–Youth Empowerment Project fall short without proper support systems. These young people need guidance, support, and supervision for a specific period to yield the dividends of their business,” Dibba advises.

He also stresses the importance of school-level interventions:

“All upper basic, senior secondary schools, and tertiary institutions should have effective and efficient career counselors to offer career guidance,” he says.

Dibba’s message is clear: unless policymakers act swiftly, the silent crisis of involuntary immobility could erode the hopes of a generation.

“Only by understanding and actively addressing the silent crisis can The Gambia unlock the potential of its vibrant youth and steer towards a future of sustainable development and prosperity,” he concludes.

Gambia launches modernisation project to strengthen public service

The President of the Gambia, Adama Barrow, has officially launched a new initiative to overhaul the country’s public administration system and ensure more efficient service delivery.

Speaking at the launch of the Public Administration and Modernisation Project (PAMP) in collaboration with the World Bank, President Barrow described the programme as “a crucial cornerstone for achieving our national objectives of consolidating democratic governance, accelerating green economic and social transformation, and building resilience against future shocks.”

The project seeks to address longstanding inefficiencies in The Gambia’s public service by focusing on three key areas: strengthening domestic resource mobilisation, improving human resource management in the civil service, and enhancing citizen engagement in education.

Barrow emphasised the need to modernise service delivery, stating that “for too long, The Gambia’s public service has faced challenges that have occasionally hindered its ability to deliver services effectively and equitably.” He added that the government is committed to creating a transparent and accountable system that places citizens at the centre of governance.

A key component of PAMP is the introduction of an Integrated Tax Administration System to optimise revenue collection. Additionally, reforms in education will incorporate public feedback mechanisms through redesigned School Report Cards, alongside new environmental initiatives such as the “green” school certification.

Barrow urged all stakeholders—including government institutions, development partners, and citizens—to actively participate in the project’s success. “Working together, we can build a public administration that is truly modern, citizen-centred, and a source of national pride,” he said.

The initiative will be supported through the World Bank’s Programme for Results instrument, ensuring that funding is directly linked to the achievement of key reform goals.

The launch marks a significant milestone in The Gambia’s efforts to strengthen its institutions and improve governance across all levels.

“The Young Residents Woke Up Terrified” — Nemasu Home-care Robbery Leaves Lasting Trauma

By: Dawda Baldeh

A thief has reportedly broken into Nemasu Home-care, a facility designed to support individuals with disabilities. This alleged incident marks the second attempt at the facility, raising concerns among both staff and residents currently living there.

Speaking to The Fatu Network, Kebba Ousman Saho, the founder and CEO of Nemasu Home-care, described the situation as devastating. He said the alleged break-in took place around 4:30 AM on Friday, June 13, 2025, with the same thief believed to have returned.

“He locked the caretaker inside before heading to the main house. He then broke through the burglar-proof window of the living room and stole a brand-new phone that had been purchased just the day before for staff communication,” he recounted.

Mr. Saho further revealed that the intruder even entered the girls’ bedroom, where a staff member and a resident were asleep. “As he tried to force open a cupboard, the staff member screamed, which startled the intruder.”

After the staff member called for help, the thief reportedly fled the scene immediately—“but not before the young residents woke up terrified and shaken, adding to the trauma of the incident.”

Although no one was physically harmed, the emotional impact on both the staff and the vulnerable residents has been significant. “We are offering a D5,000 reward for any information that leads to the identification and arrest of this individual,” Saho added.

Anyone with information is urged to contact 7011333 immediately.

WASHINGTON, DC — Gambian-Born U.S. Army Officer Achieves Major Milestone in Elite U.S. Defense Institution

Lieutenant Colonel Ebrima F. M’Bai, originally from The Gambia, has achieved one of the highest educational distinctions in the United States military after graduating from the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy, part of the National Defense University in Washington, D.C.

The Eisenhower School is one of the most prestigious and selective defense universities in the United States, designed to prepare senior military officers and government officials for the most critical leadership roles in national security, global strategy, and resource management. Each year, a very limited number of top military officers are invited to attend based on exceptional career performance, leadership potential, and strategic responsibilities. Attendance is strictly by nomination; there is no open application process.

For LTC M’Bai, this achievement is the result of years of dedicated service. His military career began as an enlisted soldier in the U.S. Army before rising through the ranks to become a commissioned officer and eventually a Lieutenant Colonel. His journey is a remarkable testament to the determination, discipline, and excellence that define his career.

Throughout the intensive year-long program, LTC M’Bai studied complex global security challenges, U.S. defense policy, industrial base strategy, national resource management, and strategic leadership. Graduates of the Eisenhower School often go on to serve in some of the most senior positions in the U.S. military and government.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the President of the National Defense University addressed the graduating class with words that captured the moment:

“Today you stand at the threshold of a remarkable journey—equipped with knowledge, leadership, and resilience to face the challenges ahead. You have shown dedication, courage, and the spirit of service that define true leaders.

As you move forward, remember that leadership is not just about titles or positions—it’s about making a positive impact wherever you go. Stay curious, stay humble, and never underestimate the power of a good plan… or a well-timed coffee break.

We are proud of all you have accomplished and excited to see the incredible difference you will make in the world. Lead boldly, serve faithfully, and embrace the adventure ahead.”

Complicity and Betrayal at the Borderline: Why Gambians Deserve the Full Truth About Our Oil

Written by: Ousman F. M’Bai

The recent statement by The Gambia’s Ministry of Petroleum and Energy, issued in response to public concern over our offshore oil blocks, raises more questions than it answers.

The Ministry concedes that FAR Gambia Ltd drilled its final offshore well a mere 500 metres from the Senegalese maritime border, an admission of enormous technical and geopolitical significance. For years, Senegal has successfully developed the Sangomar oil field, with 23 interconnected wells spaced across hundreds of kilometres. A distance of 500 metres falls comfortably within the known reservoir range. In fact, FAR Ltd.’s own 2022 ASX filings state that oil was detected at the “S440 and S408 reservoir levels” and that these were “lateral equivalents” of the productive Sangomar field.

Yet, the Ministry now claims there was “no discovery warranting a conversation on joint resource development.” This is difficult to reconcile. It is the bureaucratic equivalent of an ostrich trapped in quicksand, head buried, still believing all is well.

First, FAR Ltd.’s claim that hydrocarbons were present but “non-recoverable” has never been independently verified. Neither the Gambia Petroleum Commission nor the Ministry has released drilling data or permitted any form of third-party scrutiny, despite multiple formal requests under the Access to Information Act. One would expect such disclosure to be the minimum standard especially given FAR Ltd.’s financially distressed position at the time, its conflicted dual interest in both the Sangomar field and The Gambia’s A2 block, and the fact that it had defaulted on capital calls and risked forfeiting its entire Sangomar stake without compensation. This wilful lack of oversight raises the serious risk that The Gambia’s offshore resources were misrepresented, undervalued, or quietly written off or diverted without the scrutiny or consent of the nation.

Second, the Ministry’s justification that no “discovery” occurred and thus no action was warranted is not only legally incorrect, but diplomatically negligent. Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), joint development of transboundary resources does not require full commercial discovery, before parties begin conversations on transboundary reservoir unitisation. It requires credible geological evidence only, something even FAR Ltd has publicly acknowledged exist. Yet, officials in the Ministry and the Commission appear unwilling or unable to see the wood for the trees.

Third, timing matters. FAR Ltd exited The Gambia in January 2023 under extraordinarily favourable conditions. In the months leading up to this, the company had received over $122 million in cash and contingent payments from Woodside Energy for its interest in Senegal’s Sangomar field adjacent to The Gambia’s A2 block. Then, two Deeds of Amendment were executed (August 2022 and April 2023), waiving FAR (Gambia) Ltd.’s remaining work obligations and penalties. Shortly thereafter, the 2023 Block Demarcation Regulation was enacted, quietly redrawing our maritime boundaries particularly around Block A2.

No justification has been offered. No explanation. No transparency. The sequence of events that unfolded—the waivers, the withdrawal, the redrawing of offshore block boundaries—could not have occurred without the complicity, or at minimum the acquiescence, of The Gambia’s Petroleum Commission, the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy, FAR Ltd, and quite plausibly the government of Senegal under former “dodgy” President Macky Sall. Lurking in the background is Woodside Energy, which acquired FAR Ltd.’s stake in the Sangomar field and now stands to benefit exponentially from any reservoir extension into The Gambia’s A2 block. And yet, it is shockingly apparent that Woodside conducted no meaningful due diligence into potential reservoir connectivity either before or after concluding the deal with FAR Ltd.

Fourth, the Government asserts that seismic and well data are “confidential and extremely valuable.” That may be true, but secrecy is not security. What is valuable must be protected by accountability and not concealed behind closed doors while being offered to foreign investors. To deny Gambians access to our own resources while brokering deals abroad is a profound betrayal of public trust.

Lastly, the Ministry warns against “baseless allegations and inflammatory rhetoric.” But the concerns raised by most in public and international circles are neither baseless nor rhetorical. They are grounded in legal filings, public records, corporate disclosures, and the glaring absence of independent oversight.

The Ministry and Commission must demonstrate their stated commitment to informed dialogue by:

  • Publication of the full 2017 and 2023 offshore block coordinates;
  • Disclosure of all correspondence and licence amendments, waivers involving FAR (Gambia) Ltd.’s exit;
  • Release of the Bambo-1 and Bambo-ST1 drilling logs and pressure data;
  • Evidence of the quality review it conducted on the drilling and well data before issuing FAR Ltd a closure certificate;
  • Clarification on whether The Gambia has entered any maritime understandings with Senegal regarding western boundaries.

Our people deserve better than deflection. They deserve truth. Transparency. And leadership that protects the inheritance of future generations.

That future for The Gambia and for Senegambia as a whole now stands at risk. If The Gambia fails to safeguard its natural resources, Senegal must not, through silence or inaction, allow itself to be seen as a beneficiary of that failure. Shared resources in the MSGBC basin demand shared responsibility, and the principles of regional solidarity must not be compromised by opportunism or neglect.

Was this not what Sheik Al-Islam Bai Niasse, Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, Imamoulaye and Mam Gorgui Nderry M’Bai of Sambang Wollof taught us!

Nigeria Sends Special Envoy to The Gambia Ahead of Landmark West Africa Economic Summit

Banjul, The Gambia — Days before West Africa’s major economic gathering, Nigeria’s Minister of State, H.E. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, arrived in The Gambia on a high-level diplomatic mission.

As Special Envoy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, she delivered an official invitation to President Adama Barrow to attend the West Africa Economic Summit (WAES), scheduled for June 20–21 in Abuja, Nigeria.

This visit is part of Nigeria’s regional shuttle diplomacy under President Tinubu’s ECOWAS chairmanship. WAES is a flagship initiative aimed at advancing regional integration, trade, and investment in West Africa.

Over 1,000 Cashew Trees Destroyed as Fire Guts Deputy Government Spokesperson’s Farm in URR

Written by: Dawda Baldeh

A vibrant cashew farm and community farming centre in Sotuma Samba Koi, Jimara District, Upper River Region (URR), has been ravaged by a fire that destroyed over one thousand cashew trees and key infrastructure essential to the daily operations of the farm.

The farm belongs to Prince Bubacarr Aminata Sankanu, a public servant and native of the Sotuma Sere Catchment Area, who currently serves as Deputy Government Spokesperson of The Gambia. In addition to his agricultural efforts, Prince Sankanu is a film director and cultural advocate.

Sankanu used part of the farm to grow cashew and dedicated another section to a mixed farming centre, allowing neighbouring farmers to cultivate cash and subsistence crops such as groundnut and millet for their own use.

“I open my farm to women and other groups looking for space to plant cash crops in between the cashews, free of charge. Unfortunately, the fire disaster has caused a huge personal financial loss and is a painful setback to my hereditary agricultural project. I empathize greatly with the women and other beneficiaries who farm here because the fire has stifled their main income-generating activity,” Sankanu said, appealing for support to rehabilitate the farm, which he describes as a modest contributor to YIRIWAA through national agricultural transformation.

“For the sake of women farmers in the neighbouring communities who enjoy unrestricted access to the farm, I am appealing to well-wishers to support the regeneration of the place as the rain season is fast approaching,” he added.

Ebrima Janko, a young farmer from the nearby village of Sotuma Sere, also helps supervise workers at the Sotuma Samba Koi site.

Janko said the fire broke out after working hours, which delayed the response and worsened the damage.

“The source of the latest fire outbreak is mind-boggling, and we leave it in the hands of Allah who knows best,” he reflected.

Given the significant financial loss suffered by Mr. Sankanu, the farm will require substantial support to return to its former state and resume year-round farming activities.

The following infrastructure has been completely destroyed or damaged and now needs rehabilitation: a borehole with a modern irrigation system, a storage room, renovation of the caretakers’ room, reinforcement of the perimeter fence, cashew seedlings, tractors, tricycles, a light delivery truck, and various other farming tools. These are essential to rebuilding the farm and improving its resilience against the impacts of climate change.

Saikouba Ceesay’s Redemption: Conquering ACL to Become Philippines League’s Top Scorer

By Muhammed Lamin Drammeh

Saikouba Ceesay teetered on the edge of football stardom, his dreams glittering brightly, only to be plunged into darkness by a brutal anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Hopeless, the stakes rose even higher for Ceesay when the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) FC, the club he trusted to support him during his recovery, allegedly betrayed him, ‘abandoning’ him when he needed them most. Left to confront a career-ending abyss, Ceesay felt his hopes slipping away.

Just as despair threatened to engulf him, a beacon of hope appeared in the form of Gambia’s national team star Musa Barrow. Barrow’s swift act of generosity became a lifeline, lighting a path to recovery that Ceesay had almost lost sight of. Against all odds, Ceesay fought his way back, and his triumphant return to the pitch was capped off with a brilliantly earned title of top scorer in the Philippines Football League this year with the Manila Diggers.

His remarkable journey is not merely a personal victory; it is a powerful tale of resilience that resonates deeply, echoing from the humble streets of Jambanjelly all the way to the vibrant city of Manila.

The Crippling Cost of an ACL Tear

An ACL tear is a footballer’s nightmare. The anterior cruciate ligament is a critical knee band, stabilising movements like cutting and pivoting, essential for the game’s dynamism. A tear, often from impact or awkward twists, demands surgery and six to nine months of grueling rehabilitation. For some, it’s a death knell. Former Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy lost a year in 2000 due to an ACL injury. A 2014–2017 study of European professionals found 13.6% ended their careers within three years post-surgery, with 36% relegated to lower leagues. In the Philippines Football League, a fast-growing, physically demanding competition where clubs like Manila Diggers vie for regional prominence, an ACL injury tests even the strongest, making Ceesay’s top scorer feat a rare triumph.

A Star’s Meteoric Rise and Shattering Fall

Ceesay’s ascent was dazzling. In 2014-15, a teenage prodigy at Brikama United, he scored eight goals and provided five assists, helping win the FF Cup. “It was the greatest experience I ever had,” he told TFN, his voice alive with nostalgia. At GAF FC, he soared under early military support, securing a league title, two FF Cups, and a Super Cup. A season in Israel showcased his flair, and by 2020/2021, Ceesay was untouchable, netting 13 goals and chasing the Gambia Football Federation League’s top scorer crown, with offers from Europe, Asia, and the Gulf flooding in.

Then, in a moment, his world collapsed. During a training session at Fajara Barracks, a collision with his goalkeeper left him crumpled on the pitch. “I got hit by our goalkeeper on our training ground. That’s where the nightmare started,” Ceesay said, the pain still vivid. Unfamiliar with “ACL,” he tried to push through, but a trial with Tuzlaspor in Turkey ended after three days of agony. Tests confirmed a torn ACL, requiring surgery to salvage his career. “I was shocked and scared,” he said, the weight of a dream in jeopardy crushing his spirit.

A Promise Shattered

GAF’s alleged failure to support Ceesay was a deeper wound than the injury itself. His contract, according to him, guaranteed medical expense coverage, yet the club turned its back. “I got injured on Monday at the GAF training ground,” he said, the betrayal searing. “The funniest thing is, it was stated they’d take care of all medical expenses.” For a year, he trekked twice weekly from Jamcity to Banjul, pleading for help, only to face silence. “I followed them for a whole year, but I couldn’t get support,” he said, his voice thick with betrayal. GAF’s alleged broken promise abandoned him to a career-threatening injury, leaving the striker who had fueled their glory to fend for himself.

Musa Barrow’s Lifeline

In Ceesay’s darkest hour, a chance meeting with Coach Alagie Sarr sparked hope. Sarr told him he missed him playing, and Saikou narrated his story. He poured out his anguish, and Sarr connected him with Batch Samba Ceesay to reach Musa Barrow, the Gambian international striker renowned for his generosity. During a WhatsApp exchange about a past goal against Hawks, Ceesay pleaded, “I miss playing. Tell Musa to do something.” Batch called Barrow, patching Ceesay into the call.

Barrow’s response was swift and selfless. “He just asked how much would cover the medical expenses,” Ceesay recalled, still awestruck. When told the surgery cost 100,000 dalasi and physiotherapy was 600 dalasi per session at QCITY, Barrow pledged 225,000 dalasi. “He told me, ‘I’ll give you 225k, you can use the rest for your needs,’” Ceesay said. That night, Barrow called again: “Batch is bringing the money this night.” Batch delivered the cash, and Ceesay’s family gathered to pray for Barrow’s kindness. “I couldn’t believe how fast things were happening,” Ceesay said, his gratitude a lifeline.

A Top Scorer’s Resurrection

With Barrow’s support, Ceesay underwent successful surgery in Dakar. Recovery was brutal, but QCITY physiotherapist Lamin T. Sarjo became his rock. “That guy was just the best,” Ceesay said. “He pushed me anytime I wanted to quit.” Sarjo’s encouragement and free sessions rebuilt Ceesay’s strength. Fueled by Barrow’s generosity and Sarjo’s dedication, Ceesay returned with BK Milan, then played for Guediawaye and Fortune FC.

His resilience earned a move to Manila Diggers in the Philippines Football League in 2024, a rising competition drawing talent across Asia. There, Ceesay erupted, clinching the league’s top scorer title with 16 goals and three assists in 17 games. “Winning the top scorer in a foreign country in my first year is the best feeling ever,” he said, his smile radiant. Nightly gym sessions and a diet of bananas and oranges powered his resurgence, each goal a defiance of GAF’s neglect.

A Beacon for Dreamers

Ceesay’s Philippines Football League top scorer title defies the grim odds of ACL injuries. GAF’s alleged broken promise nearly extinguished his career, but Barrow’s 225,000-dalasi lifeline, delivered overnight, rekindled it. “Thank God I was OK,” Ceesay said, his eyes on the horizon. His journey from Jambakelly’s dusty pitches to Manila’s spotlight is an inspiration, proving that one person’s support can overcome institutional betrayal. On the pitch, Ceesay’s goals are a tribute to Barrow, Sarjo, and his own unbreakable spirit, a testament to dreams reborn.

The New Land Policy: Progress, But the Fight Continues

By Dave Manneh – Research Lead

Securing Futures: Land Rights Action Collaborative

The Gambia faces a long struggle for fair land ownership, grappling with historical injustices and colonial legacies. Securing Futures: Land Rights Action Collaborative (SFLRAC) consistently advocates for Kombo’s land-owning communities, demanding a National Land Policy (NLP) that corrects past wrongs. Our initial review of the February 2025 draft raised significant concerns, especially about the harmful State Lands Act 1991 and the pervasive threat of elite capture.

Significant Steps Forward

Following widespread discussions and revisions, the Ministry of Lands, Regional Government, and Religious Affairs responded to calls for reform. This positive development highlights the critical importance of SFLRAC’s collaborative efforts with Kombo groups. Their comprehensive recommendations, a direct result of this joint work, led the May 2025 Validation Copy to include or directly address about 82% of SFLRAC’s key recommendations. This truly demonstrates the immense power of collaboration and community advocacy in shaping national policy. This Validation Copy is set for final national review on 10th June 2025 at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center, Bijilo.

Key improvements include:

• The policy formally recognises Certificates of Customary Ownership (CCOs), providing secure tenure to indigenous communities whose rights have historically been precarious.

• It now explicitly mandates “Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC)” for land conversions from customary to state land.

• It promises compensation at replacement value for expropriated lands and pathways for restitution. If properly implemented, these measures could fundamentally alter the landscape of land acquisition and safeguard vulnerable communities.

• The Validation Copy also demonstrates a stronger commitment to transparency. It clearly articulates mechanisms to combat elite capture, including public disclosure of land transactions, independent impact assessments for large-scale investments, and a commitment to regulating real estate practices.

• The emphasis on digitisation of land records and the establishment of a unified Land Information System (LIS) is a welcome step towards reducing fraud and increasing efficiency, though ensuring inclusivity for low-literacy communities remains paramount.

• The policy focuses more on gender equality, promoting joint spousal titling and protecting women’s inheritance rights, moving beyond tokenistic recognition to embed equity within the legal framework.

• Additionally, it strengthens the Lands Commission’s autonomy and expands its mandate to investigate disputes and monitor land administration.

Remaining Challenges

Despite these advances, our vigilance must remain unwavering.

The policy opts for substantial amendments and constitutional limitations on the Minister’s powers rather than outright abrogation of the State Lands Act 1991. This remains a key area for our ongoing advocacy.

Though the Validation Copy did not directly meet our demand for an immediate moratorium on land allocations for “public purposes,” the policy does tighten guidelines for such allocations.

True land justice requires not just policy statements, but a fundamental shift in the philosophical approach to land ownership and community sovereignty.

The Path Ahead

The continued fight for land justice in The Gambia is about reclaiming heritage, affirming identity, and ensuring that economic development serves all citizens, not just a privileged few. The May 2025 NLP Validation Copy offers a more hopeful blueprint than its predecessor. It signals a willingness from the state to engage with critical feedback and integrate community-led recommendations.

However, the true measure of its success will lie in its diligent implementation. SFLRAC, alongside Kombo’s land-owning communities, remains committed to constructively engaging in this process, ensuring that the promise of land justice translates into tangible and lasting change for generations to come.

The path forward demands unwavering commitment to vigilant monitoring, and a constant centering of community voices in shaping the future of land governance in The Gambia but particularly Kombo.

Securing Futures: Land Rights Action Collaborative (SFLRAC) is an NGO-think tank hybrid. Committed to empowering Kombo’s dispossessed land-owning communities, SFLRAC combines participatory action with rigorous research to secure ancestral land rights, advocate for equitable governance policies, protect cultural heritage, and advance sustainable development.

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