AGP Executive Report

Electoral Justice: The IEC’s supplementary voters’ register is now under review as magistrates appointed by the Chief Justice hear objections across multiple Revising Courts, with 1,694 challenges filed and decisions focused on who is legally eligible to be registered for the 5 December presidential election. Maritime Safety: The Gambia Maritime Authority is pushing stronger seafarer assessment and certification standards, stressing that high-quality examiners and assessors are key to safety and competitiveness in global shipping. Football Development: Africell Gambia donates jerseys and kits to 25 Nawettan teams ahead of the new season, backing grassroots youth sport across the Greater Banjul Area and beyond. Regional Sports: The Gambia’s WAFU U-17 build-up continues as the Young Scorpions name a final 25-man squad for Dakar, with their opener against Sierra Leone’s WAFU-A campaign also looming. Migration Tragedy: Spain reports at least five deaths and dozens feared missing after a migrant boat linked to departures from The Gambia ran into trouble near the Canary Islands, with survivors describing weeks at sea.

Electoral Courts Update: The IEC’s 2026 supplementary voter registration objections are now being heard in Revising Courts across the country, with magistrates appointed by the Chief Justice reviewing 1,694 challenges to decide which names stay, are removed, restored or corrected. Judicial Reform Focus: Lands Minister Hamat N.K. Bah says land disputes make up about 62% of court cases and says government is pushing reforms including a dedicated High Court for land matters and a Land Information System to reduce overlapping claims. Sports Leadership & Youth Football: Kemo Ceesay has officially assumed leadership of the GFF after taking over from Lamin Kaba Bajo, while the Gambia U-17 side named its final 25-man squad for the WAFU-A tournament in Dakar. Grassroots Support: Africell Gambia donated jerseys and equipment to 25 Nawettan teams in the Greater Banjul Area and beyond ahead of the new season. Regional Migration Tragedy: Spain’s rescue services report at least five dead and 44 survivors after a migrant boat linked to Gambia drifted for 27 days near the Canary Islands, with survivors describing dehydration and seawater drinking. Maritime Standards: The Ghana Maritime Authority called for stronger seafarer assessment and certification standards, with regional training including The Gambia.

Gambia Election Watch: The IEC has moved into a key legal phase for the 2026 polls, with magistrates in Revising Courts hearing objections to the supplementary voters’ register across multiple areas; the IEC received 1,694 objections and the courts will decide whether challenged names stay, are removed, restored, or corrected. Migration Tragedy: Spanish authorities say a migrant boat linked to Gambia drifted for 27 days before being found near the Canary Islands; 44 survivors were rescued and five bodies were found, while reports suggest more than 80 people died, including a baby. Football Governance: Kemo Ceesay has officially assumed office as the new GFF president after a handover from Lamin Kaba Bajo, with the federation leadership transition framed as democratic and peaceful. Grassroots Football: Africell Gambia donated jerseys and equipment to 25 Nawettan teams ahead of the new season, backing youth sport and community cohesion. Youth & Sports: Gambia has named its final 25-man U-17 squad for the WAFU Zone A tournament in Dakar. Land & Justice: Lands Minister Hamat N.K. Bah says land disputes make up about 62% of court cases and the government is pushing reforms, including a dedicated High Court for land disputes.

Electoral Justice: The IEC’s 2026 election process is moving into the Revising Courts stage, with magistrates appointed by the Chief Justice hearing objections to supplementary voter registrations across several areas, after 1,694 objections were filed—deciding which disputed names stay, are removed, restored or corrected. Judicial Pressure: Lands Minister Hamat N.K. Bah says land disputes make up about 62% of court cases, pushing the government to reform the system, including plans for a specialized High Court for land matters and a Land Information System to cut multiple allocations and fraud. Migration Tragedy: Spanish authorities report a boat believed to have left The Gambia in early August with 128 migrants; 44 were rescued near the Canary Islands after 27 days, while at least five bodies were found and more than 80 people—including a baby—are feared dead. Bilateral Ties: President Adama Barrow concluded a visit to Guinea Conakry, reaffirming cooperation on agriculture, trade, energy, defense, tourism, science and technology, youth and sports, fisheries and education. Digital Economy Push: EFF-Gambia leader Prince Ebrahim Sanyang unveiled plans to build a digital economy, guarantee broadband as an “economic right,” create tech hubs in every region, and digitise government services to fight corruption. Sports—Regional Focus: Ghana reappointed Carlos Queiroz as Black Stars coach for the next phase, with AFCON qualifiers and friendlies including matches involving The Gambia on the September calendar.

Migration Tragedy: Spain’s Maritime Rescue says a boat linked to Gambia was found adrift off the Canary Islands after about 27 days, with 44 survivors brought ashore and five bodies recovered; survivors report more than 100 people originally on board, while an NGO claims the death toll could be over 80, including women and a baby, after food ran out and people fell ill from drinking seawater. Ghana Football: Ghana’s FA has reappointed Carlos Queiroz as Black Stars coach for the next phase, with AFCON qualifiers ahead; the move has sparked debate, while Kurt Okraku and Nii Odartey Lamptey both criticised the World Cup approach, urging more possession and attacking play. Energy & Policy: Oando calls for stronger partnerships between regulators, operators and host communities to unlock investment in Africa’s upstream sector. Sports Event: For Kids Sake International will hold its Superhero 5K on September 19, with support for orphaned children including in The Gambia. Animal Health: The Philippines imposed a temporary ban on importing FMD-susceptible animals and products from Gambia and 22 other countries.

Atlantic Migration Tragedy: Spain’s Maritime Rescue says a boat carrying West African migrants was found drifting off Gran Canaria with 44 survivors and five bodies recovered; survivors report the vessel left The Gambia about 27 days earlier and had run out of provisions, with many dying after drinking seawater—an NGO says the death toll could be far higher, including a baby and women. Ghana Football: Carlos Queiroz has been reappointed as head coach of Ghana’s Black Stars for the next phase, with the GFA saying he will lead the team into 2027 AFCON qualifiers; fans in Keta are split on the decision, while GFA leadership defends his approach after the World Cup exit. Public Sector Reform: The African Capacity Building Foundation warns that Africa’s public financial management reforms often stall due to leadership gaps and resistance to change, not lack of good ideas. Hate Crime Case Involving Gambian: In Arizona, police say a Muslim gunman identified as Ousman Ceesay shot two patrons at a gay bar in a case investigated as a hate crime, with family members disputing claims about his motives. CAF Football Governance: CAF President Patrice Motsepe congratulates newly elected GFF president Kemo Ceesay and pledges support for football development in The Gambia. Gambia Club In Africa: Medina United begin their CAF Champions League preliminary round in Sierra Leone against Star Sport Academy FC, aiming for a strong first-leg result.

Sports & National Team: Ghana’s Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz has agreed to stay on after a new deal with the GFA, with details of his mandate to be announced soon; the big early question is captain Jordan Ayew’s next steps ahead of 2027 AFCON qualifiers, including a key September double-header against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia. Gambia–Senegal Border: The Gambia-Senegal demarcation push is back on track, with the National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC) supporting the process using historical maps and archival records to clarify the boundary. Fuel Prices: The government has raised retail pump prices effective Sept. 1, setting petrol at D109.80/litre, diesel at D120/litre and kerosene at D112.64/litre, citing higher international oil costs. Governance & Oversight: President John Dramani Mahama dissolved the National Sports Authority (NSA) governing board with immediate effect as part of a wider shake-up of state boards, while management continues day-to-day work. Regional Appointments: ECOWAS has appointed Gambian economist Mam Cherno Jallow as the new Director-General of GIABA. Migration: IOM says it helped 535 migrants voluntarily return from Libya, including 79 Gambians.

Sports Governance Shake-Up: Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama dissolved the National Sports Authority (NSA) governing board with immediate effect, saying management will run day-to-day affairs while new boards are reconstituted. Black Stars Coaching Update: Carlos Queiroz is reportedly close to agreeing a new contract with the Ghana Football Association after outstanding World Cup payments were settled, keeping him on course for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. Gambia Security & Corruption Agenda: EFF-Gambia leader Prince Ebrahim Sanyang outlined a decentralised security plan, including “One District, One Fire and Rescue” and “One Community, One Police Station,” alongside zero tolerance for corruption. Roads Funding for Greater Banjul: The Gambia secured an extra US$10 million from Saudi Fund for Development for the Greater Banjul Roads Project, targeting 50km of improved connectivity. Markets Regulation: Serekunda lawmaker Musa Cham tabled a bill to create a comprehensive law to regulate and manage all Gambian markets. Regional Finance Leadership: Gambian economist Mam Cherno Jallow assumed office as GIABA Director-General, tasked with strengthening anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing across West Africa. US Deportation List: The US published an updated deportation list of 427 West Africans, including 15 Gambians, with named charges. Youth & Jobs Focus: A commentary highlights how youth labour underutilisation—not just unemployment—must shape policy as The Gambia heads toward the 2026 election.

GIABA Leadership in Focus: Gambian financial economist Mam Cherno Jallow has officially assumed office as Director-General of GIABA, the ECOWAS anti-money laundering body, taking over from Liberian Edwin W. Harris for a four-year mandate. Regional Power & Energy: West Africa is extending electricity integration with over 4,000km of transmission lines linking 15 countries, boosting cross-border power trade and expanding access to electricity services for millions, including in The Gambia. ECOWAS Commission Transition: Senegal’s Gen. Birame Diop has sworn in as President of the ECOWAS Commission, pledging stronger integration and peace and security, with Anthony Ogunjimi named Vice-President. Gambia Justice & Accountability: Special Prosecutor Martin Hackett says his office will pursue prosecutions into enforced disappearances from Jammeh’s era with care for victims, while Reed Brody warns any political deal enabling Jammeh’s return would test The Gambia’s accountability system. Football & Local Impact: Kemo Ceesay is expected to formally assume office as new GFF president on 2 September, and Gambian youth from Esohna Academy have begun trials in Sweden with IF Elfsborg. Migration Updates: IOM reports voluntary returns of 535 migrants from Libya, including 79 to The Gambia, supported by the EU.

ECOWAS Leadership Shift: Senegal’s Gen. Birame Diop has taken over as President of the ECOWAS Commission, succeeding Gambia’s Dr Omar Alieu Touray, with a pledge to deepen integration and strengthen peace and security; Regional Money-Laundering Fight: Gambian economist Mam Cherno Jallow has assumed office as GIABA Director-General, tasked with boosting efforts against money laundering and terrorist financing; Migration Returns: IOM in Libya says 535 migrants have been voluntarily returned this week, including 79 to The Gambia, with EU support; Gambia’s Justice Focus: Special Prosecutor Martin Hackett says his office will pursue prosecutions for victims of Jammeh-era enforced disappearances, while Reed Brody warns any political deal enabling Jammeh’s return would test Gambia’s accountability system; Elections Peacebuilding: Religious leaders, women and youth in the West Coast Region were trained on peacebuilding and conflict prevention ahead of the 2026 elections; Parliament Resumes: The National Assembly will resume sessions Monday, with bills including cyber crime and immigration, plus debate on the 2027 budget; US Visa Update Affecting Gambia: The US says routine visa processing has been reshaped into regional hubs, but diplomatic and official visas (A, G, C) will still be handled in Abuja.

GFF Leadership: Kemo Ceesay has been elected President of the Gambia Football Federation, winning 41 votes at the Elective Congress and calling for unity by urging his rivals Musa Jammeh and Sadibou Kamaso to join his administration. Election Peace Warnings: The National Democratic Institute says hate speech and ethnic tensions could threaten peace ahead of the 5 December presidential election, urging parties and supporters to avoid demeaning posts and misinformation while the IEC improves transparency. Youth Football: The Young Scorpions (Gambia U-20) begin preparations for the WAFU-A U-20 Qualifiers in Mali, with an initial 30-player screening starting 31 August. Border & Information Check: A viral claim that Senegalese forces seized more Gambian land was flagged for verification after mixed reactions online and reports of border tensions in communities. Regional Diplomacy: Senegal’s Gen. Birame Diop was sworn in as ECOWAS Commission President, succeeding Gambia’s Omar Alieu Touray. Water & Power Support: The GIRAV project donated four Toyota pickup vehicles to NAWEC to boost field operations and improve WASH delivery.

ECOWAS Leadership Handover: Senegal’s Gen. Birame Diop was sworn in as the new ECOWAS Commission president in Abuja, taking over from Gambia’s Dr Omar Alieu Touray, as the new team of commissioners and statutory appointees was also announced. GFF Election Aftermath: Kemo Ceesay was elected President of the Gambia Football Federation, winning 41 votes, and immediately urged rivals Musa Jammeh and Sadibou Kamaso to join him—framing the win as a start for unity and reforms. Election Safety Watch: The National Democratic Institute warned that rising hate speech and ethnic tensions could threaten peace ahead of The Gambia’s 5 December presidential election, urging IEC transparency and proactive communication. Team Gambia Coalition: The coalition-building initiative “Team Gambia” says its five-month nationwide consultations are complete, with formal coalition work set to begin from 12 September. Sports Venue Update: In Ghana, Accra Sports Stadium is not fully closed—only the pitch is affected—while Ghana’s AFCON qualifier preparations keep competitive football restricted until the match vs The Gambia. Water & Power Support: The GIRAV Project donated four Toyota pickup vehicles to NAWEC to boost field operations and improve WASH service delivery.

ECOWAS Peacekeeping Legacy: ECOWAS Commission unveiled four books on its peacemaking and conflict-resolution work in West Africa, including “Fighting Bushfires,” covering ECOMOG-era interventions in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea-Bissau. Tourism Push: ECOWAS adopted a framework to strengthen and accredit regional tourism business associations, with The Gambia among participating countries. Digital ID Rollout: The Gambia began the nationwide rollout of the new biometric national ID (GAM ID) around Greater Banjul, with registration dates set for early September and a stated first-time processing fee of D55.43. Elections Watch: The UDP met an NDI pre-election assessment mission ahead of December 2026, discussing voter registration, dispute resolution, judiciary, coalition building and media rules. Football Links: Kurt Okraku represented CAF at the GFF elective assembly, where Kemo Ceesay won the presidency; in women’s football, Berewuleng FC thrashed Mogbwemo Queens 5–1 and Gambian midfielder Joanna Colley signed for Sierra Leone’s Ram Kamara FC. Drugs Enforcement: Sierra Leone police recovered a pistol, ammunition and synthetic “kush” after a raid tied to recent travel to The Gambia.

ECOWAS Peacekeeping Books: ECOWAS unveiled four publications on its peace interventions, including “The ECOWAS Intervention From the Peaceful Transfer of Democratic Power in The Gambia,” with Nigeria’s Defence Minister Gen. Christopher Musa as special guest in Abuja. GAM ID Rollout: The Gambia has begun enrollment for the new biometric national ID card (GAM ID) around Greater Banjul, with registration centers scheduled for Sept 7, Sept 11 and Sept 21. Election Transparency Push: EFSCRJ urged political coalitions for the Dec 2026 presidential election to publish their coalition agreements, saying MOUs are signed but not shared with voters. Security & Drugs: Gambian authorities intercepted 74 stolen vehicles after 13,000 Interpol database checks; separately, DLEAG arrested a 53-year-old Nigerian with 9,020 ecstasy tablets, suspected skunk, and a drug-processing machine. Migration Rescue: Mauritania’s coast guard rescued 161 migrants (including 17 children) after a boat left Banjul and spent about eight days at sea. Tourism Link-Up: The Gambia will push a bigger tourism footprint in Nigeria via Akwaaba Travel Trade Expo 2026 in Lagos, with a Sept 12 promotional reception. Football & Regional Ties: Kurt Okraku represented CAF at the GFF elective assembly, congratulating new president Kemo Ceesay; and Gambian football continues to export talent with players moving to Sierra Leone and Sweden.

Tourism Push: The Gambia is set to expand its tourism footprint in Nigeria through the 2026 Akwaaba Travel Trade Expo in Lagos (Sept 13–15), with a delegation led by Tourism Minister Abdoulie Jobe and a Sept 12 “Destination Gambia” cocktail reception to meet travel agencies, tour operators and airlines, with a strong focus on MICE business travel. Healthcare Accountability: West African Health Organisation (WAHO) has launched Health Service User Support Centres in Benin, The Gambia and Togo, giving patients a dignified place to raise concerns, seek guidance, and access dialogue and mediation to improve care quality. Election Transparency: The Edward Francis Small Centre for Rights and Justice (EFSCRJ) is urging political coalitions contesting December 2026 to publish their coalition agreements, warning that voters deserve the full terms, not just public announcements. Security & Crime: Gambian security forces intercepted 74 stolen vehicles in a two-week border operation around Banjul after more than 13,000 Interpol checks. Drugs Crackdown: The Drug Law Enforcement Agency says it arrested a 53-year-old Nigerian with 9,020 ecstasy tablets, suspected skunk, and a machine allegedly used to manufacture synthetic drugs. Migration Rescue: Mauritania’s coast guard says it rescued 161 migrants, including 17 minors, after a boat left Banjul and spent about eight days at sea.

Sports & Regional TV: DAZN has secured LaLiga EA SPORTS broadcast rights across Sub-Saharan Africa for three seasons (2026/27–2028/29), starting this weekend, bringing all 380 matches per season to fans in The Gambia and beyond. Gambia in Football: Gambian forward Musa Barrow was involved as Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved a penalty in Al Hilal’s 5-1 win over Al Khaleej in Saudi Arabia. Tourism Push: The Gambia is ramping up its tourism ties with Nigeria ahead of Akwaaba Travel Trade Expo 2026 in Lagos (Sept 13–15), with Minister Abdoulie Jobe leading a delegation and hosting a Destination Gambia promotional reception on Sept 12. Election Transparency: Rights group EFSCRJ is urging political coalitions for the Dec 2026 presidential election to publish their coalition agreements, warning that secrecy blocks voters from knowing key terms. National ID Rollout: Government has begun enrollment for the new biometric GAM ID around Greater Banjul, with registration dates set for Sept 7, Sept 11 and Sept 21. Security & Drugs: DLEAG says it arrested a 53-year-old Nigerian with 9,020 ecstasy tablets, suspected skunk, and a machine allegedly used to manufacture synthetic drugs. Migration Tragedies: Mauritania reports rescuing 161 migrants (including 17 minors) after a week at sea from Banjul, highlighting the deadly Atlantic route. Rohingya Justice: Gambia’s AG Dawda Jallow says the ICJ verdict in the Rohingya genocide case is expected in October, with Bangladesh and The Gambia pushing for continued international action.