AGP Executive Report

Reparatory Justice Push: Ghana will host a high-level reparatory justice conference in Accra from June 17–19, aiming to set up global advisory, cultural restitution and legal panels, and to build a permanent consultative forum after UN Resolution A/RES/80/250. Gambia–Senegal Cooperation: President Adama Barrow says the Senegal–Gambia Presidential Council is the top decision-making platform to deepen cooperation, citing progress on security, borders and trade. Governance Reform Debate: ASD leader Marie Sock calls for a “reset” of The Gambia’s governance system, while the government says it will review chiefs’ salaries and convene a national “Mansa Benn” gathering later this year. Forensic Lab Controversy: Parliament is urged to summon former Interior Minister Mai Fatty and current Interior Minister Abdoulie Sanyang over the alleged US$48m forensic lab project, with claims that no records exist. Electricity Strain Hits Livelihoods: Outages and water shortages are worsening, with businesses reporting spoiled stock and lost income. Migration Tragedy: Gambia Immigration reports a boat fire with 33 migrants suffering severe burns; 21 treated and discharged, nine still receiving care. Health Regulation: India moves cough syrups to prescription-only, tightening rules after contaminated syrup deaths—an issue resonating regionally. Sports: Gambian striker Muhammed Badamosi scores again for Riga FC; Colley Stars and Kanifing East keep their promotion race momentum; GFF officials attend FIFA’s executive summit in Miami.

Human Rights & Civic Space: CHRAJ’s Dr Joseph Whittal urged NNHRI-WA to tackle shrinking civic space, migration and detention conditions, and strengthen democratic governance as the network’s presidency and secretariat changed hands in Accra. Public Accountability: A fresh uproar in the National Assembly over the missing US$48m forensic laboratory contract—lawmakers say records were announced in 2017 but later “no records could be found,” raising fears of weak accountability. Health & Rural Services: FIOHTG and partners are monitoring a GAVI-funded immunisation project in rural communities, checking everything from solar installations and boreholes to health facility standards. Tourism Planning: EU-backed roadmaps were validated to guide tourism growth and creative industries, with a focus on MSMEs, women and youth, and better market access. Energy Crisis & Daily Hardship: Gambians report darkness and dry taps, while MPs debate whether the country’s reliance on imported electricity from Senegal is sustainable; businesses and households say outages are hitting livelihoods hard. Gambia–Senegal Cooperation: Presidents Barrow and Faye met in Dakar for the 4th Senegalo-Gambian Presidential Council, agreeing new working groups to fast-track deals on energy, trade, digital transformation, education and security. Opposition Coalition Talks: The Opposition Coalition Mediation Committee urged calm and transparency as opposition parties work toward selecting a 2026 flagbearer. Sports Governance: SJAG held the first GFF presidential debate with only one candidate attending, while other teams cited concerns over coordination and neutrality.

GFF Politics: Sadibou Kamaso won hearts at the Gambia Football Federation presidential debate after being the only aspirant to show up, while Musa Jammeh’s team said he skipped due to concerns over the event’s coordination, neutrality, and lack of formal inclusion in the GFF electoral calendar. ID Services Disruption: Government suspended issuance of National IDs and driver’s licences from 9 June to 29 June 2026 as part of a Public-Private Partnership transition, raising public questions about service continuity. Forensic Lab Contract: Ex-minister Mai Fatty explained his role in the “mysterious” US$48m forensic DNA laboratory project, saying it never moved beyond signing and caused no public purse loss. Pilgrims and GIA: Gambian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia complained about chaotic return flights, late meals and hotel eviction threats, with GIA admitting delays and saying it prioritised private-agency bookings for earlier returns. Power Crisis: A National Assembly member blamed government for worsening electricity outages, calling it a preventable national emergency that is hurting businesses and households. Health & Prevention: SICPA Gambia and OSHAG held a Community Wellness Day targeting hypertension, diabetes and obesity with screenings and lifestyle guidance. Diaspora Education Support: UK-based Baddibu and Kiang associations donated learning materials and sports equipment to 10 schools. Sports Spotlight: Gambian runner Sanu Jallow-Lockhart set a new NCAA 800m record at the US championships. Trade Opportunity: China expanded market access for African cashew nuts under unified inspection and quarantine rules, potentially benefiting more exporters including Gambia. Regional Security: Gambia joined a new Combined Maritime Task Force Gulf of Guinea framework aimed at tackling maritime insecurity and protecting the blue economy.

Maritime Security: The Combined Maritime Task Force Gulf of Guinea (CMTF-GoG) was flagged off in Lagos on June 1 with Gambia among six pioneer states, aiming to tackle insecurity and protect trade across the Gulf of Guinea through an African-led, permanent framework. Judicial & Governance: The Chief Justice inspected the Special Criminal Division in Bakau and a new court complex under construction at Mile 7, praising the facility’s role in handling serious cases, including murder, rape and violent robbery. Anti-Corruption Push: Civil society groups led by Gambia Participates renewed calls to operationalise the Anti-Corruption Commission, saying delays in swearing in commissioners are stalling accountability efforts. Environment Under Pressure: Activists warn the Tanbi Wetland Complex is facing rising threats from land reclamation and infrastructure plans like a proposed dry port, as climate risks to Banjul intensify. Rural Power Woes: Residents in the Upper River Region say new electricity connections are undermined by frequent outages, forcing some to revert to solar. Markets & Fire: A fire damaged stalls at Serrekunda’s Sandika market, with traders assessing losses and pointing to electrical faults and the need for better layout and safety. Football Development: The GFF opened registrations for The Gambia’s first-ever CAF ‘A’ Coaching Diploma Course, running July 13, 2026 to Jan 30, 2027. Tech & Skills: Gambian-born immunologist Bubacarr J.B. Touray launched Seedmap, an AI-powered counselling platform for immigrant and first-generation students.

Shadow Fleet Crackdown: The UK boarded the sanctioned Russian “shadow fleet” tanker Smyrtos after it lost its Cameroon registration; the vessel had previously been registered in Gambia, highlighting how flag changes can mask sanctioned crude shipments. Solar Eclipse Watch: A deep partial solar eclipse will be visible across Northwest Africa, including The Gambia, with a partially eclipsed sunset expected on Aug. 12, 2026. Migration and Human Dignity: Pope Leo XIV wrapped up a Spain visit focused on migrants, urging integration and warning of a “silent shipwreck” after arrival, while directly calling on human traffickers to “stop” and “repent.” Regional Cybersecurity Win: Nigeria won the $10,000 grand prize at the 4th ECOWAS Regional Cybersecurity Hackathon 2026 in Accra; The Gambia was among participating countries. Gambia Diaspora Education Support: Gambian-born immunologist Bubacarr J.B. Touray launched Seedmap, an AI-powered counselling platform to guide immigrant and first-generation students through education and career choices. World Cup Fever: Senegal face France in a Group I opener preview, with the tournament also drawing attention to travel and entry hurdles for some teams and officials.

Migration & Human Dignity: Pope Leo XIV’s Spain trip ended in Tenerife after a plane technical issue delayed his return, but his message stayed focused on migrants—urging integration through language and respect for local laws, warning of a “silent shipwreck” after arrival, and directly telling traffickers to “stop” and “repent.” Gambia in Focus (Diaspora/Innovation): Gambian-born immunologist Bubacarr J.B. Touray has launched Seedmap, an AI-powered counselling platform for immigrant and first-generation students, pairing human guidance with tailored career pathways. Sports (Gambia): GAF striker Abdoulie Joof scored twice as GAF beat Marimoo Pakfood 3-1, moving to 17 league goals; in women’s football, Police FC, Koita FC, GAF and Darboes FC reached the FF Cup quarter-finals; in the men’s leagues, Rhino FC drew Real de Banjul 2-2 and Hawks FC held GPA to a goalless draw. Local Business & Culture: Jarga marked one year building The Gambia’s luxury handbag industry, pushing locally made, export-ready designs.

Migration & Human Dignity: Pope Leo XIV wrapped up his Spain visit in Tenerife after urging migrants to integrate by learning the language, respecting local laws and customs, warning of a “silent shipwreck” after arrival, and directly telling traffickers to “stop” and “repent.” His return to Rome was delayed when his Iberia flight faced an engine problem, with the rest of the delegation set to travel on a replacement plane. Local Sports: Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) beat Marimoo Pakfood FC 3-1, with Abdoulie Joof scoring twice to move to 17 goals and strengthen his Golden Boot bid. Women’s Football: Police FC, Koita FC, GAF and Darboes FC booked Women’s FF Cup quarter-final spots after Round of 16 wins. Governance & Economy: The Gambia ratified the AU Convention on Ending Violence against Women and Girls, making it a binding legal commitment; meanwhile, the World Bank’s public finance review flags revenue limits, deficits, debt pressures and SOE risks—especially in energy—while urging implementation that matches the recommendations. Infrastructure: GAMGO says a major basalt shipment from Cape Verde has arrived to support road works and construction projects.

Migration & Human Dignity: Pope Leo XIV’s Spain trip ended in Tenerife after a plane engine problem delayed his return, but his message stayed focused on migrants—urging integration, warning of a “silent shipwreck” after arrival, and telling traffickers to “stop and repent.” Regional Trade & Industry: ECOWAS ministers in Accra backed a “mine together, process together” push to add value to minerals, build factories, and boost intra-African trade under AfCFTA. Gambia’s Legal & Social Progress: The Gambia ratified the AU Convention on Ending Violence against Women and Girls, making it a binding obligation for law and policy alignment. Economy & Ownership: Central Bank Governor Buah Saidy urged Gambians to invest more locally as foreign ownership of businesses and land rises. Public Finance Pressure: A World Bank public finance review highlights weak revenue, high debt, and fiscal risks from state-owned enterprises—calling for tighter spending and better tax collection. Tax Arrears: GRA says 16 institutions, including SOEs and area councils, owe over D1.23 billion in unpaid taxes. Sports: GAF beat Marimoo Pakfood 3-1 as Abdoulie Joof hit two goals; Police FC, Koita FC, GAF and Darboes FC reached the Women’s FF Cup quarter-finals.

Migration & Human Dignity: Pope Leo XIV wrapped up his Spain visit in Tenerife, urging migrants to integrate as a “reciprocal journey” and calling for action against traffickers, warning of a “silent shipwreck” when people are left without voice, ties or security. Gambia in Focus Abroad: A report says Germany deported over 1,300 Gambians in eight years, with deportations rising after 2022 even as the Gambian community in Germany stays around 16,000. Local Economy & Governance: Central Bank Governor Buah Saidy urged Gambians to invest more at home as foreign ownership of businesses and properties grows, while Finance Minister Seedy Keita said SOEs and area councils owe GRA over D1.23bn in unpaid taxes. Infrastructure & Industry: GAMGO and GAGO say they’ve secured major basalt shipments from Cape Verde to support road works and construction. Women’s Football: Police FC, Koita FC, GAF and Darboes FC reached the Women’s FF Cup quarter-finals. Sports (Men): GAF beat Marimoo Pakfood 3-1; Rhino FC drew Real de Banjul 2-2; Hawks and GPA shared a goalless draw.

ECOWAS Cybersecurity: A Ghana-based firm, 00SEC, designed the challenges for the ECOWAS cybersecurity hackathon in Accra, marking a regional first as 12 member-state teams race to build defences for governments, banks and infrastructure. Migration and Human Dignity: Pope Leo XIV visited Arguineguín in Spain’s Canary Islands, calling for an “examination of conscience” and urging legal, safe routes, rescue and real cooperation against traffickers. Jobs vs Growth: A Gambia-focused policy push warns growth isn’t creating enough work, with most people stuck in informal jobs and women facing lower participation, urging tax reforms and better fiscal discipline. Arts Investment: ART27 launched a landmark residency programme funding 12 large-format works for a BIG & BOLD touring exhibition opening in October 2026. Forensic Lab Contract Denial: The Interior Minister told lawmakers no trace was found of a D48m forensic lab contract, while pointing to a newly inaugurated police forensic laboratory. Hajj Refund Claims: Over 70 intending pilgrims accuse EjabahTravel and Tours of taking more than D50m for the 2026 Hajj but failing to travel or refund. Election Readiness: An EU election exploratory mission arrived to assess the pre-election environment ahead of a possible full observation mission. Local Governance and Peace: The Interior Minister vowed to arrest anyone inciting tribalism during the campaign, stressing monitoring across events, media and online spaces. Digital Privacy: The Gambia’s Information Commission gained full membership in NADPA-RAPDP, strengthening its role in regional data privacy and digital regulation. Sports Talent: Gambian defender Buba Sanneh is set to extend his contract with Nottingham Forest on a new two-year deal.

Electoral Watch: An EU Election Exploratory Mission has arrived in The Gambia to assess the pre-election environment and decide whether a full EU observation mission is needed for the 2026 presidential poll, with meetings across parties, civil society, media and stakeholders through 24 June. Political Climate: Interior Minister Abdoulie Sanyang warned that anyone inciting or promoting tribalism during the campaign and beyond will be arrested and prosecuted, with police set to monitor political events and online spaces. Diplomacy & Transparency: The Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, defended why details of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s Banjul visit were not made public, calling it “high diplomacy.” Justice: Banjul Magistrates’ Court acquitted two Austrian nationals accused of disobeying a lawful order after police failed to prove they breached a court directive. Business & Community: President Barrow inaugurated Global Properties Limited’s new head office in Kotu, while Buzz Women Gambia held a farewell for founding board chairman Ousman Cham. Sports: Gambian defender Buba Sanneh agreed a new two-year contract extension with Nottingham Forest. Migration Focus: Pope Leo XIV visited Arguineguín in the Canary Islands, urging safe routes, rescue and dignified welcome for migrants crossing the Atlantic.

Maritime Digital Push: A four-day study visit by The Gambia Maritime Administration to Nigeria’s NIMASA reaffirmed plans to strengthen seafarers’ documentation and maritime digitalisation, with both sides stressing regional cooperation for globally compliant certification. Local Governance Upgrade: Kanifing Municipal Council launched a Fund for Innovation in Development-backed project on “leveraging digital addresses for evidence-based policymaking,” using Google Plus Codes and better administrative data to improve planning and service delivery for vulnerable residents. Parliament Capacity Boost: The National Assembly and partners convened a “Fellows Meeting” to review a UNDP/EU-supported fellowship that builds legislative drafting, legal research, partnerships and media engagement skills inside the Assembly. Accountancy Court Ruling: The High Court issued an interlocutory injunction restraining breakaway GICA council members from acting or transacting in the name of GICA, while ordering temporary measures to keep day-to-day operations running. Migration Numbers: A CRPD/GK Partners forum reported that over 90% of Gambians in the EU live in Spain, Italy and Germany, with Germany’s community at 15,494 in 2025. Electricity Cost Warning: A World Bank Public Finance Review says weak sector performance and system losses keep Gambia’s electricity tariffs among the highest globally, averaging $0.21 per kWh, hurting affordability. Press Freedom Remembered: Gambians marked Deyda Hydara’s 80th birthday, celebrating him as a martyr for press freedom and a defender of democracy. Sports—Interbank Trophy: Trust Bank won the 2026 Interbank Trophy after a goalless draw with Bloom Bank, winning the penalty shootout 9-8.

World Cup 2026: FIFA’s expanded tournament is here with 48 teams and 26-player squads across the US, Canada and Mexico, with full official rosters published as fans gear up. Gambia Energy & Power Costs: A World Bank review says weak finances and system losses keep NAWEC electricity tariffs among the highest globally, averaging $0.21 per kWh, while affordability and inefficient subsidies slow access gains. Offshore Oil Deal: The Gambia signed a Petroleum Exploration, Development and Production Licence Agreement with Eni for offshore Block A1, with GNPC holding a 10% carried interest—welcomed by some, met with public scepticism after past licence changes. Court Update: The High Court in Banjul dismissed Ebrima Dibba’s appeal against a sedition charge, ruling the prosecution could proceed without a separate Attorney General fiat in every case. Corruption & Governance Debate: Commentaries renewed calls for a broader, structural fight against corruption and for anti-corruption bodies to be operationalised. Labour Migration Shock: Kuwait tightened domestic worker recruitment, allowing only 10 source countries and banning many others including Gambia—raising concerns for families relying on Gulf jobs. Sports: The Gambia won Zone II men’s beach volleyball qualifying after beating Cape Verde 2-0, booking a spot in the 2026 African Championship.

Migration Pressure: Mauritania says more than 1,000 migrants were rescued off its coast in 10 days, with 1,076 people pulled from eight pirogues; the boats reportedly came from The Gambia and Senegal, and arrivals are being processed in EU-funded reception centres in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou. Higher Education Reform: MoHERST and stakeholders have validated updates to The Gambia’s 2016 Tertiary and Higher Education Act, arguing it must deliver governance, accountability, innovation, and job-relevant training—not just expand institutions. Food Safety & Trade: The Food Safety and Quality Authority launched a National Sanitary and Phytosanitary committee to improve coordination, monitoring, and science-based standards for safer food and better market access. Energy Oversight: Oil Marketing Companies says a vessel allegedly carrying off-spec fuel (YASA ORION) was denied discharge and left Gambian waters after tests found the product unsuitable. Governance & Finance: The budget deficit narrowed 67% in the first quarter as revenue reached D7.68bn, driven by stronger tax collection. Sports: Gambia won the Zone II men’s beach volleyball title, beating Cape Verde 2-0 to qualify for the 2026 African Championship.

Migration & Human Dignity: Pope Leo’s first visit to Spain’s Canary Islands is spotlighting the treatment of migrants, after years of criticism over harsh conditions and a surge in irregular arrivals. Sports & Governance: Sports Minister Bakary Badjie says Scorpions coach Jonathan McKinstry’s extended contract is tied to securing AFCON qualification, as government defends continuity ahead of home-match hopes. Energy & Accountability: The government says it rejected a Gambian-flagged fuel cargo after lab tests found it unfit, while critics warn the incident shows gaps in regional information-sharing. Trade & Food Safety: FSQA launches a National Sanitary and Phytosanitary committee to strengthen food safety systems and meet WTO obligations. Anti-Corruption Push: Rights group EFSCRJ urges President Barrow to expedite swearing-in of Anti-Corruption Commission nominees so the body can start work. Local Economy & Services: Government reports GMD1.36bn debt service paid in Q1, alongside a Q1 deficit of GMD195.84m. Ports & Labour: GPA and Alport clash with staff groups over welfare issues, with management pointing to payments and a joint committee while unions dispute progress. Oil Deal: Eni signs an offshore exploration deal for Block A1, marking its first entry into The Gambia.

Offshore Oil Deal: The Gambia has signed a landmark petroleum exploration, development and production licence for Block A1, giving Eni rights over 1,300 sq km in deepwater (1,250–3,300m), with government participation via a transfer of its 10% carried interest to GNPC and an option to add 5% after a discovery. Health & Regulation: President Adama Barrow commissioned the country’s first modern food and drug quality control laboratory, funded by the World Bank, to improve testing of food and medicines and reduce reliance on overseas labs. Tourism Crackdown: The Gambia Tourism Board warned developers in the Tourism Development Area to stop illegal construction, fencing and poor sanitation, saying unapproved works are damaging the coastline and could face legal action. Democracy Update: The IEC completed a 44-day supplementary voter registration, adding 212,095 new voters to the roll and boosting participation ahead of elections. Cybercrime Fight: Gambia Police and PURA plan a formal partnership to tackle online scams, hacking and other cyber threats. Sports Infrastructure: The Youth and Sports Minister says Independence Stadium renovations should meet CAF standards for September AFCON qualifiers, with the pitch done and athletics works ongoing. China Ties: Vice President Jallow praised China’s zero-emission, automated Tianjin Port as a model for climate-smart growth and highlighted improved access for Gambian groundnuts under China’s zero-tariff policy.