AGP Executive Report

Migration & Human Dignity: Pope Leo XIV wrapped up his Spain visit in Tenerife, urging migrants to integrate “reciprocally” by learning local language, respecting laws, and joining communal life, while warning traffickers to “stop and repent” and calling Europe’s “dock of shame” a “dock of hope.” Gambia–EU/Regional Migration Context: The same Canary Islands route remains a major gateway for irregular arrivals from West Africa, including Gambia, with reports of migrants left vulnerable after crossings. Local Governance & Accountability: Finance Minister Seedy Keita told the National Assembly that State Owned Enterprises and area councils owe the Gambia Revenue Authority over D1.23 billion in unpaid taxes, led by Gamcel and Gamtel, with recovery plans including payment arrangements. Economy & Ownership: Central Bank Governor Buah Saidy urged Gambians to invest more locally as foreign ownership of businesses and properties rises, warning wealth could leak out of the country. Gender Justice: The Gambia’s ratification of the AU Convention on Ending Violence against Women and Girls makes the commitment binding, requiring legal and policy alignment. Diplomacy: President Barrow sent a congratulatory letter to Azerbaijan’s Ilham Aliyev on Independence Day. Sports: Abdoulie Joof scored twice as GAF beat Marimoo Pakfood FC 3-1, moving him to 17 league goals and strengthening his Golden Boot push.

ECOWAS Cybersecurity: A Ghana-based firm, 00SEC, set the scenarios for the ECOWAS cybersecurity hackathon in Accra, with 12 national teams racing June 8–11 to build defenses for governments, banks and infrastructure. Migration & Dignity: Pope Leo XIV visited Arguineguín in Spain’s Canary Islands and urged “legal and safe routes,” rescue and protection for migrants, turning the former “dock of shame” into a “dock of hope.” Jobs vs growth gap: A Gambia-focused report warns growth isn’t translating into work—most people stay in the informal sector, youth unemployment is high, and women are shut out of the economy—calling for fiscal discipline and tax reform. Land dispute in court: The High Court rejected an attempt to introduce fresh evidence in the Banjulinding land case, applying strict rules on when new documents can be admitted. Hajj refund pressure: Over 70 intending pilgrims demand a D50M refund after missing the 2026 Hajj, alleging mishandling and visa issues. Election security: Interior Minister Abdoulie Sanyang told lawmakers anyone inciting tribalism in campaigns will be arrested and prosecuted, with monitoring across media and online spaces. EU pre-election check: An EU Election Exploratory Mission arrived to assess the pre-electoral environment and decide whether to deploy a full observation mission. Digital privacy step: The Information Commission says The Gambia has gained full voting membership in NADPA-RAPDP, aiming to strengthen data privacy and cross-border standards.

Term-Limits Debate: A new opinion piece argues “No to Third Term” shouldn’t be limited to President Adama Barrow, warning opposition leaders must also respect term limits. Election Oversight: The EU sent an Election Exploratory Mission to assess The Gambia’s pre-election environment and decide if a full observation mission is needed. Campaign Hate-Speech Enforcement: Interior Minister Abdoulie Sanyang told lawmakers the state will arrest and prosecute anyone inciting tribalism during the election period, with tighter monitoring of events and media. Information Secrecy: The Information Minister defended why details of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s Banjul visit were not publicly disclosed, calling it normal “high diplomacy.” Opposition Strategy: A political scientist says a united opposition coalition could unseat the NPP in December, depending on whether parties rally behind one flag bearer. Local Governance Data: Kanifing’s digital-address project aims to improve evidence-based policymaking for vulnerable communities. Parliament Accountability: The National Assembly is setting up a Standing Committee on Government Assurances to track whether ministers’ promises are actually delivered. Maritime Cooperation: Gambia’s maritime authority is studying Nigeria’s seafarer documentation and digitalisation systems.

ECOWAS at 51: ECOWAS marked its 51st anniversary in Banjul with renewed calls for coordinated action against trafficking, drug trade and irregular migration, warning that national efforts can’t match the scale of cross-border crime. Local Government & Data: Kanifing’s Mayor Bensouda launched a project using digital addresses to improve evidence-based municipal policymaking, aiming to strengthen planning and service delivery. Court Watch: The High Court dismissed Ebrima Dibba’s appeal over a sedition charge, ruling the prosecution didn’t need a separate written fiat in this case. Professional Bodies: A court restrained breakaway GICA council members from acting for the institute and ordered temporary measures to keep day-to-day operations running. Energy & Cost of Living: The World Bank’s Public Finance Review says Gambia’s electricity tariffs are among the highest globally, citing weak sector finances and inefficient subsidies. Migration Snapshot: A migration evidence forum reported that over 90% of Gambians in the EU live in Spain, Italy and Germany, with updated 2025 figures. Opposition Politics: Coalition taskforce chair Yerro Mballow outlined possible methods to choose a single opposition candidate for December elections. Maritime Cooperation: Gambia’s Maritime Administration study visit to Nigeria’s NIMASA focused on seafarers’ documentation and maritime digitalisation. Press Freedom Legacy: Gambians marked Deyda Hydara’s 80th birthday, renewing calls to end impunity for attacks on journalists.

Opposition Coalition Talks: Coalition Taskforce Mediation Committee chair Prof. Yerro Mballow outlined possible ways to pick a single opposition flag bearer for December, using 2021 presidential results to score parties and setting rules for unregistered groups via civil society representation. Courts & Rights: The High Court dismissed Ebrima Dibba’s appeal against a sedition charge, ruling the Attorney General’s written fiat wasn’t required in every case because the Solicitor-General can act under standing authority. Energy Costs: A World Bank public finance review says Gambia’s electricity tariffs average about $0.21/kWh, among the highest globally, driven by weak sector finances, system losses, and inefficient subsidies. Oil & Accountability Debate: Government signed an offshore Block A1 licence deal with Eni, but public commentary warns it may feel like a “footnote” unless exploration governance delivers real results. Governance & Corruption: A letter argues resignations and investigations don’t fix corruption’s deeper institutional roots. Labour Migration Shock: Kuwait restricted domestic worker recruitment to 10 approved countries and banned many others, including Gambia, raising new risks for Gambians seeking Gulf jobs. Education Reform: MoHERST and stakeholders validated updates to the 2016 Higher Education Act, aiming to strengthen governance, quality assurance, and relevance.

Migration & Humanitarian Pressure: Mauritania says over 1,000 migrants were rescued off its coast in 10 days, with eight pirogues intercepted and people taken to EU-funded reception centres in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou—another sign the Atlantic route is picking up after Tabaski. Higher Education Reform: In The Gambia, MoHERST and stakeholders validated the Tertiary and Higher Education Act, 2016, with calls to move beyond “decorating” the law toward stronger governance, accountability, relevance, and job-ready graduates. Energy & Regulation: Oil Marketing Companies’ president says a vessel (YASA ORION) carrying off-spec fuel was denied discharge and left Gambian waters after lab tests—highlighting both enforcement and the need for faster regional information-sharing. Anti-Corruption Commission Delay: Rights group EFSCRJ urges President Barrow to expedite swearing-in of approved Anti-Corruption Commission nominees, warning the country remains without a functioning institution. Local Governance & Accountability: A public dispute continues at Alport over staff welfare: GPA and Alport say payments and an HR resolution are in place, while the Alport Staff Association rejects that claim. Trade & Food Safety: FSQA launched a National Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Committee to strengthen coordination, compliance, and market access for safer food and agriculture.

Migration & Human Dignity: Pope Leo’s first visit to Spain’s Canary Islands spotlights the “port of shame” and pushes for humane treatment of migrants, with thousands arriving by sea from Africa. Youth & Democracy: YPLS Africa launched its 13th cohort in Liberia, bringing 50 young leaders (including Gambians) to discuss ethical governance and democratic renewal. Sports Governance: Sports Minister Bakary Badjie says Coach Jonathan McKinstry’s extended contract is tied to securing AFCON qualification for 2027. Anti-Corruption Push: Rights group EFSCRJ urges President Barrow to expedite swearing-in of Anti-Corruption Commission nominees, warning the delay leaves the country without the institution meant to fight corruption. Food Safety for Trade: FSQA launched a National Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Committee to strengthen coordination, meet WTO obligations, and improve market access. Energy Oversight & Accountability: A Gambian-flagged fuel cargo (YASA ORION) was denied discharge after tests found it unsuitable, but the incident raises concerns about regional information-sharing. Public Finance: Government reports GMD1.36bn debt service paid in Q1 2026, alongside a lower-than-budgeted deficit. Local Government & Labour: Banjul Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe thanks partners after her recent commemorative launch; meanwhile, GPA and Alport staff welfare disputes continue, with a planned high-level meeting after a sit-down strike.

Offshore Oil Deal: The Gambia signed a petroleum exploration, development and production licence for offshore Block A1 with Eni, covering about 1,300 sq km in deep waters (1,250–3,300m), with government set to transfer its 10% carried interest to GNPC and an option to add 5% after a commercial discovery. Health & Regulation: President Adama Barrow commissioned the National Food and Drug Quality Control Laboratory in Brusubi, saying the 2022 AKI tragedy exposed major gaps and that the new facility will strengthen testing, surveillance and protection against unsafe medicines and food. Energy Crisis & Accountability: Barrow also acknowledged NAWEC’s debt to Senegal’s Senelec, while GDC renewed pressure for a clear, transparent roadmap to end power cuts. Elections & Democracy: The IEC completed its 44-day supplementary voter registration, adding 212,095 voters and targeting those missed in 2021 or reaching voting age by Dec 5, 2026. Tourism Enforcement: The Gambia Tourism Board warned illegal developers in the Tourism Development Area to stop unapproved construction, citing environmental damage, coastal erosion and sanitation concerns. Security & Governance: GPF and PURA discussed a formal partnership to fight cybercrime, including scams and hacking. Sports Infrastructure: Youth and Sports Minister Bakary Badjie said Independence Stadium renovations should meet CAF standards for September AFCON qualifiers. China Links: VP Jallow praised China’s zero-emission, automated Tianjin Port and highlighted new trade opportunities, including access for Gambian groundnuts.

Democracy & Scholarship: A tribute to Professor Abdoulie Saine spotlights his resistance to Yahya Jammeh’s dictatorship and his legacy as an academic who “turned intellect into resistance.” Senegambia Integration: A call for the Senegambia summit to move from talk to action, pushing cheaper Banjul–Dakar air links and smoother movement of people and goods. Community Policing: NCCE launches a community policing forum with UNDP and Japan support, aiming to build trust between communities and law enforcement ahead of elections. Tourism Under Pressure: The Gambia Tourism Board warns illegal developers in the Tourism Development Area, citing unapproved structures, coastal erosion, and poor sanitation. Health System Upgrade: President Barrow inaugurates the National Food and Drug Quality Control Laboratory, saying the AKI tragedy exposed major weaknesses and must never repeat. Energy Crisis & Accountability: Barrow and others renew pressure over NAWEC’s debt and the prolonged electricity crisis, while calls grow for a clear roadmap. Cybercrime Fight: GPF and PURA plan a formal partnership to tackle online scams and hacking. Oil & Gas Deal: Government signs/announces Eni’s licence for offshore Block A1, with state participation via GNPC. Labour Dispute: GPA urges striking workers back to work as the presidency steps in and a high-level meeting is scheduled. Sports Infrastructure: Youth and Sports Minister says Independence Stadium should be ready for AFCON qualifiers in September. International Ties: U.S. marks 250 years of independence with renewed reaffirmation of partnership with The Gambia.

Gambia Oil & Gas: The government of The Gambia signed a Petroleum Exploration, Development and Production Licence Agreement for offshore Block A1 with Eni Gambia Ltd, handing the Italian firm rights over 1,300 km² in deep Atlantic waters (up to 3,300m), a major step toward unlocking offshore hydrocarbons. IMF Support: The IMF said it is stepping up financial support for at least four African countries hit by the US-Israel war on Iran, including accelerated access for The Gambia under its existing program. Power & Cost Pressure: A policy institute warned that the conflict is already driving fuel import shocks and higher prices in The Gambia, with knock-on risks for remittances, tourism, and food and agriculture. Regional Trade & Capacity: ECOWAS and WILDAF ran a five-day Banjul workshop to strengthen women cross-border traders and agribusiness entrepreneurs. Governance & Justice: A report says The Gambia’s Higher Judicial Council has been “resuscitated,” after vacancies had slowed the justice system.

Gambia Energy & Oil: The government signed a Petroleum Exploration, Development and Production Licence Agreement for offshore Block A1 with Eni Gambia Ltd, awarding Eni exploration rights over 1,300 sq km in deep Atlantic waters (up to 3,300m), a major step to unlock commercial hydrocarbons. IMF Support: The IMF said it is stepping up financial support for at least four African countries affected by the US–Israel war on Iran, including The Gambia, with authorities requesting a 20% augmentation of an existing $172m programme plus a six-month extension and rephasing. Power & Public Services: Gamtel reported an internet outage affecting major telecoms, linked to loss of power at the ACE submarine cable station in Sukuta amid ongoing electricity disruptions. Governance & Security: Defence Minister Sering Modou Njie updated on allegations involving former CDS Lt Gen Ousman Gomez’s appointment as Acting CDS after President Barrow accepted Lt Gen Cham’s resignation, with the military saying it will allow an impartial investigation. Regional Trade & Women: ECOWAS and WILDAF ran a five-day Banjul training (18–22 May) to strengthen women cross-border traders and agribusiness entrepreneurs. Humanitarian Reach: Qatar Red Crescent’s Eid Al Adha Sacrifice campaign reported 247,344 beneficiaries across 14 countries including The Gambia.

IMF Support for Gambia: The IMF says it is stepping up financial support for at least four African countries hit by the US-Iran conflict, including The Gambia, with authorities requesting a 20% augmentation of an existing $172m programme plus a possible six-month extension and rephasing. Petroleum Deal: The Gambia government has awarded offshore exploration rights for Block A1 to Eni, taking over a block previously operated by BP, in a bid to unlock deepwater potential. Power & Internet Fallout: A nationwide internet outage hit major telecoms after power loss at the ACE submarine cable station in Sukuta, worsening public frustration during ongoing electricity problems. Security & Governance: President Barrow has accepted the resignation of former CDS Lt Gen Mamat Cham, appointing Maj Gen Ousman Gomez as Acting CDS, following allegations that the military says lack substantive evidence so far. Elections & Voters: The IEC reports 24,000 people registered with multiple voter’s cards, raising fresh concerns about voter registration integrity. Human Rights & Deportations: Lawyers have filed a complaint with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights to challenge US “third-country” deportations to Equatorial Guinea, with the commission based in The Gambia. Regional Trade Training: ECOWAS and WILDAF ran a Banjul workshop to strengthen women cross-border traders in agribusiness.

World Cup Visa Row: Iran hit back at the US after some Iran World Cup support staff were reportedly denied visas, even as Iranian players received approvals late Friday—raising fresh questions about politics interfering with sport. Gambia Power & Internet Strain: A nationwide internet outage was linked to loss of power at the ACE submarine cable station in Sukuta, piling pressure on a country already facing rolling electricity cuts. Defence Leadership Shake-up: President Barrow accepted the resignation of former CDS Lt Gen Cham amid allegations, appointing Maj Gen Ousman Gomez as Acting CDS and ordering an independent inquiry. Oil Licensing Move: Government signed a Petroleum Exploration, Development and Production Licence Agreement for offshore Block A1 with Eni, a major step to unlock deepwater potential. Elections Integrity: The IEC says 24,058 people registered multiple times, warning of criminal penalties including fines, imprisonment, and voting bans. Justice Trust Gap: Afrobarometer reports most Gambians doubt courts are fair, affordable, or timely, with concerns about unequal treatment and impunity.

ECOWAS & Cross-Border Trade: ECOWAS Commission and WiLDAF ran a five-day Banjul workshop (18–22 May) to strengthen women traders and agribusiness entrepreneurs’ skills. Defense & Governance: President Barrow ordered an independent inquiry into allegations against former CDS Cham, accepted Cham’s resignation, and named Maj Gen Ousman Gomez acting CDS. Power & Public Services: A major internet outage hit Gambia as power cuts affected the ACE submarine cable station in Sukuta, while Nawec’s debt and power-crisis management continue to draw scrutiny. Elections & Integrity: The IEC says 24,058 people registered multiple times in the voter registration exercise, warning double registration is a criminal offence. Justice Trust: An Afrobarometer access-to-justice survey finds most Gambians doubt courts are fair, affordable, or timely, with impunity for powerful people a common complaint. Regional Economy: IMF says it will step up support for The Gambia as fallout from the Iran conflict strains fuel, food, and balance-of-payments pressures. Energy & Investment: Eni signed an offshore Block A1 petroleum exploration development and production agreement with The Gambia.

Voter Integrity: The IEC says 24,058 people registered multiple times, warning double registration is a criminal offence that could bring fines, prison, and bans—an issue it says is unprecedented. Justice Confidence: An Afrobarometer access-to-justice survey finds most Gambians doubt courts are fair, affordable, or timely, with many saying powerful offenders often escape punishment. Power Crisis Fallout: Nawec’s debt talk is getting clearer: officials put liabilities to Senegal’s Senelec and Guinea’s EDG at about US$58m, as the utility faces the post-Karpowership transition and ongoing reliability pressure. Elections & Civic Tension: Brikama North chief Lamin ‘Mondo’ Jatta tells Gala to stop frequent protests and form a political party instead. National Leadership & Unity: Amir Baba Trawally urges Gambians to reject tribalism, hatred, and political hostility ahead of the 2026–27 cycle. Energy & Economy: IMF support is set to increase for The Gambia (requested augmentation of its existing program), while Eni signs for offshore Block A1 exploration. Governance in Focus: Government extends Scorpions coach Jonathan McKinstry’s contract to 2028. Local Development Spotlight: A tribute event celebrates former Banjul mayor Rohey Malick Lowe’s leadership and urban reforms.

Fuel Relief & Subsidy: The Gambia cut gasoil by D5 per litre, using over D150M in subsidy support to cushion households and transport operators, while petrol (PMS) stays at D112. Power Crisis & Accountability: NAWEC blamed maintenance and equipment rehabilitation for prolonged outages, while a Banjul lawmaker warned blackouts are feeding crime and infrastructure vandalism. Education Labour Dispute: University of Education staff began a sit-down strike from 1 June over unresolved demands, risking disruption to teaching and assessments. Public Health: TB notifications fell 8% in 2025, but The Gambia still lags End TB targets, with officials citing slow progress on incidence and deaths. Sports & National Pride: Government extended Scorpions coach Jonathan McKinstry’s contract to 2028; sprinter Isatou Sey qualified for the Commonwealth Games 200m final. Women’s Leadership Tribute: A documentary launch honoured former Banjul Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe, with Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri urging more women in governance. Regional Trade & Standards: SMIIC trained stakeholders on halal quality infrastructure, positioning The Gambia as a regional hub for halal-certified products. Migration Pressure: Mauritanian coastguard rescued 181 Gambians among 911 migrants over five days, underscoring ongoing Atlantic migration risks.