AGP Executive Report

LGBTQ+ Refugee Stories on Film: A new short documentary, Exiled for Existing, shares first-person accounts from refugees fleeing laws and violence tied to same-sex relationships, with premieres in Scotland during Pride Month and stories including people from Gambia. Prison Mercy for Yawm al-Ashura: President Adama Barrow pardoned 105 inmates—103 men and 2 women—granting immediate release after review by a constitutional committee. Healthcare Upgrade in Farato: Barrow commissioned The Gambia’s National Emergency Treatment Centre and Biomedical Engineering Hospital, promising faster diagnostics, training for health workers, and reduced need to travel abroad. FGM Tragedy Sparks Fresh Outrage: A one-month-old infant died after severe bleeding in Banjul; police arrested two women and activists renewed calls to protect children and reject any push to decriminalise FGM. Infrastructure vs. Livelihoods: Residents question whether roads and electrification are improving daily life, citing unstable power and high electricity costs that hurt small businesses and farming plans. Local Governance Watch: Government says the Local Government Commission of Inquiry report will be published before end of August, alongside a cabinet “White Paper.” Women’s Rights & Community Safety: NHRC training for prison officers stresses human rights and anti-torture safeguards, linking reform to “Never Again” promises after past abuses. Culture & Fashion Moment: Princess Anne wore a 42-year-old dress again in London—an outfit she also wore during a 1984 visit to Gambia—highlighting “recycling” and sustainable fashion.

FGM & Child Protection: A one-month-old infant died in Banjul after severe bleeding, with police arresting two women and rights groups linking the case to complications from female genital mutilation, renewing calls to treat FGM as cruelty, not culture. Prison Reform & Human Rights: The National Human Rights Commission launched training for prison officers on international standards, anti-torture safeguards, and accountability, stressing that detainees retain constitutional dignity. Local Governance Accountability: Government says the Local Government Commission of Inquiry report will be published before end of August, alongside a cabinet “White Paper” response. Food Security & Agriculture: Fertiliser price for the 2026 season will stay at D1,100 per bag, backed by a D1.601 billion subsidy, urging farmers to buy only from approved depots and agents. Women & Youth Enterprise Skills: She Trades Gambia Hub, under an EU-backed tourism and creative industries project, trained women and youth-led MSMEs on market soft skills, mindset, communication, and pitching. STEM Learning Access: STEM Africa Fest expands its programme for underserved children, with plans for a multi-city rollout and a Lagos flagship edition on 18 July.

Fashion & Heritage: Princess Anne wore a 42-year-old dress again in London, and fans noticed it was the same outfit she wore during a 1984 visit to The Gambia for Save the Children UK—another reminder of how culture and memory travel through style. Human Rights in Custody: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) opened training for prison officers on international human rights standards, anti-torture safeguards, and accountability, stressing that detainees remain protected by law and dignity. Local Governance Reform: Government says the Local Government Commission of Inquiry report will be published before end of August, alongside a cabinet “White Paper” response. Food Safety & Prosperity: A World Food Safety Day piece argues food safety is not only public health, but also an economic necessity for livelihoods, market access, and long-term growth—highlighting lessons from Gambia’s groundnut sector. Women, Youth & Skills: EU Youth Empowerment/She Trades training graduated women and trainers to strengthen market skills for tourism, fashion, handicrafts and agribusiness. Education Financing: SRLS student revolving loan scheme validation workshop reviewed a 2026–2030 strategic plan and loan policy, with government support pledged. FGM Legal Battle: A major Supreme Court case could decide whether The Gambia’s 2015 FGM ban is upheld or weakened, with survivors and activists urging protection for girls.

Human Rights & Prisons: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) opened a training for prison officers on international rights, anti-torture safeguards, and accountability—urging a “Never Again” culture inside custodial institutions. Local Governance: Government says the Local Government Commission of Inquiry report will be published before end of August, alongside a cabinet “White Paper” response. Women’s Rights & Justice: Activists and survivors are watching a Supreme Court case that could shape The Gambia’s 2015 ban on female genital mutilation (FGM), with girls like Fatou Baldeh saying the stakes are protection, not tradition. Tourism & Land Use: GTBoard and the Department of Geology signed a framework agreement to safeguard TDA resources and prevent tourism land from being licensed for mining at the same time. Food Security: Fertiliser price for the 2026 season will stay at D1,100 per bag, backed by a D1.601 billion subsidy, with farmers urged to buy only from approved depots/agents. Youth & Migration: A National Youth Council dialogue in Kanifing tackled myths and realities of irregular migration and pushed education and skills as alternatives. Education & Skills: The SRLS student revolving loan scheme held a validation workshop for its 2026–2030 strategic plan and loan policy, with government committing D40 million. Culture & Community: A Gambia-linked charity push continues through regional partnerships, including support for children’s education and local school funding.

Diplomacy & Faith: Gambian scholar Sheikh Muhammad Haydara Al-Jilani paid a farewell visit to Malaysia’s PM Anwar Ibrahim, with prayers for peace and well-being shared ahead of Ashura. Human Rights & Justice: The NHRC opened training for prison officers on international human rights and anti-torture safeguards, linking reform to “Never Again” after TRRC abuses. Local Governance: Government says the Local Government Commission of Inquiry report will be published before end of August, alongside a cabinet White Paper response. Women & Politics: A push for stronger women’s political participation highlights Gambia’s democratic deficit and calls for practical electoral reforms ahead of December. Culture, Tourism & Youth: GTBoard and the Department of Geology signed a framework agreement to safeguard tourism development resources, while STEM Africa Fest expands access for underserved children. Food & Livelihoods: Fertiliser for the 2026 season stays at D1,100 per bag, backed by a D1.601bn subsidy to protect farmers. Health & Safety: World Food Safety Day coverage frames food safety as an economic necessity, and a major legal battle looms over the FGM ban.

Religious & Community Life: Gambia scholar Sheikh Muhammad Haydara Al-Jilani wrapped up a Malaysia dakwah visit, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim receiving him for dhikr and Ashura prayers. Human Rights & Justice: The NHRC opened prison-officer training focused on international rights, anti-torture safeguards, and accountability—linking reform to “Never Again” after TRRC abuses. Local Governance Watch: Government says the Local Government Commission of Inquiry report will be published before end of August, alongside a cabinet “White Paper.” Food & Livelihoods: World Food Safety Day spotlighted how safe food is an economic necessity for Gambia’s groundnut sector and rural prosperity. Women & Youth Advocacy: A push for women’s political participation and gender-balanced representation framed it as a democratic deficit, not a “women’s issue.” Health & Education: Merck Foundation’s Africa-Asia Luminary brought First Ladies and partners to discuss health and well-being, while Gambia’s SRLS student revolving loan scheme advanced with a strategic plan validation workshop. Culture, Tourism & Skills: She Trades (EU-backed) trained women and youth-led MSMEs in market skills for tourism, fashion, handicrafts and agribusiness. Politics: NPP student wing defended a nine-point agenda on education, skills and youth empowerment ahead of December polls.

Religious & cultural exchange: Gambia scholar Sheikh Muhammad Haydara Al-Jilani wrapped up a month in Malaysia leading dhikr and knowledge gatherings, meeting Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during Ashura and receiving prayers for peace and well-being. Human rights & justice: The NHRC opened a training push for prison officers on international human rights, anti-torture safeguards, and accountability—urging a “Never Again” culture inside custodial institutions. Local governance: Government says the Local Government Commission of Inquiry report will be published before end of August, alongside a cabinet “White Paper” response. Food & livelihoods: World Food Safety Day coverage frames food safety as an economic necessity for Gambia’s farmers and groundnut value chain. Youth, education & skills: NPP Students’ Wing defends a nine-point agenda focused on education, skills training, and youth empowerment. Tourism resources: GTBoard and the Department of Geology sign a framework to safeguard TDA resources and streamline investor processes. Women’s rights & health law: Supreme Court FGM ban case nears, with survivors and activists urging protection for girls. Agriculture support: Fertiliser price for 2026 stays at D1,100 per bag, with government subsidy and guidance to buy only from approved depots. Migration dialogue: National Youth Council and partners hold an intergenerational discussion on irregular migration in Kanifing, spotlighting education and local opportunities.

STEM for underserved kids: Organisers of STEM Africa Fest say at least 20% of the 2026 edition’s participants will attend free, with transport and feeding covered, as the festival prepares for a Lagos flagship on 18 July and a multi-city rollout including Ilorin. Gambia’s migration reality: A fresh look at how irregular migration shapes everyday life in The Gambia—fuelled by unemployment and insecurity—while border monitoring remains uneven in remote crossing areas. Maternal health and extreme heat: Reporting from East Africa links rising temperatures and poor housing to higher pregnancy complications, including miscarriage and anaemia-related risks. Fertiliser price stays steady: The Gambia announces fertiliser for the 2026 farming season will remain D1,100 per bag, backed by a D1.601 billion subsidy and advice to buy only from approved depots/agents. Women’s political participation: FLAG and partners push for more meaningful women’s representation in decision-making, arguing it strengthens democracy and accountability. Domestic violence ruling: The High Court sentences Yugo Sowe to life imprisonment for a brutal cutlass attack that left his wife permanently disabled, warning communities to treat threats seriously. Real Betis in Gambia: Real Betis Academy Gambia launches in Banjul with weekend training for ages 10–18, aiming at both football development and personal growth. FGM legal fight: The Supreme Court is set to hear a case that could reshape the 2015 FGM ban, with survivors saying the stakes are protection for girls. Education access and loans: A student revolving loan scheme validation workshop reviews SRLS strategic plans and loan policy, with government support of D40 million.

Migration & Borders: A new report frames irregular migration as a daily reality for Gambian households, driven by jobs and insecurity, while weak border infrastructure and uneven enforcement leave dangerous routes unchecked. Maternal Health & Climate: Coverage from Kenya’s coast spotlights how extreme heat can worsen pregnancy risks like anaemia, dehydration and complications—an urgent reminder for climate-sensitive health planning. FGM Legal Battle: Gambian activists and survivors are watching the Supreme Court case that could uphold or weaken the 2015 FGM ban, with survivors calling tradition “no shield” for harm. Domestic Violence Verdict: The High Court sentenced Yugo Sowe to life imprisonment for a premeditated cutlass attack that left his wife permanently disabled, with judges warning communities to treat threats seriously. Women in Politics: FLAG and partners push for stronger women’s political participation, arguing representation improves accountability and decision-making. Agriculture & Food Security: Government keeps fertiliser at D1,100 per bag for 2026, citing subsidies and supply-chain pressures. Education & Jobs: Teacher recruitment concerns grow as trained graduates report long waits for public school postings. Sports & Youth: Real Betis launches an academy in Banjul to develop young players through a structured training programme. Health Funding: Merck Foundation’s Africa-Asia Luminary highlights scholarships and capacity building, including a Gambian first lady’s participation.

International Diplomacy & Security: The U.S. says it bombed radar and drone sites in Iran after Tehran shot down an American drone, as Iran and Kuwait reported retaliatory strikes—while tensions also simmer around the Strait of Hormuz. Women’s Rights & Justice: The Gambia’s Supreme Court is set to hear a case that could reshape the 2015 ban on female genital mutilation, with survivors warning that culture must not excuse harm. Domestic Violence: A Banjul High Court sentenced Yugo Sowe to life imprisonment for a brutal cutlass attack that left his wife permanently disabled, with the judge urging communities to treat threats seriously. Education & Youth: Government is validating a student revolving loan scheme plan, with a D40M commitment to expand access to higher education. Politics & Representation: FLAG and partners held a dialogue on advancing women’s political participation, pushing for practical steps beyond promises. Culture & Community: Real Betis Academy launched in Banjul to train young Gambian players through a structured weekend program. Health & Capacity Building: Merck Foundation’s Africa-Asia Luminary brought together first ladies and health leaders to expand scholarships and healthcare capacity. Local Development: Rural communities praised GIRAV-funded road works for improving access to markets and services.

Human Rights & Justice: The Supreme Court is set to hear a case that could shape the future of The Gambia’s 2015 ban on female genital mutilation, with survivors and activists warning that girls’ protection hangs in the balance. Women’s Empowerment & Politics: FLAG and KAS held a dialogue on advancing women’s political participation, arguing representation must translate into real voices in laws and decisions. Gender-Based Violence: The Banjul High Court sentenced Yugo Sowe to life imprisonment for a brutal cutlass attack on his wife, Amie Sowe, leaving her permanently disabled. Education & Youth Finance: Government commits D40M to a student revolving loan scheme, with a validation workshop reviewing the 2026–2030 strategic plan and loan policy. Tourism & Creative Skills: ITC’s She Trades Initiative trained women and youth-led MSMEs on market skills and pitching for tourism, fashion, handicrafts and agribusiness. Health & Leadership: Merck Foundation’s Africa-Asia Luminary brought together first ladies and health stakeholders to discuss improving healthcare capacity, including 2,600 scholarships for healthcare providers. Governance & Public Services: The government plans to adopt parts of Nigeria’s civil service reform model to strengthen public service delivery. Community & Culture: Rural communities praised GIRAV-funded road works for improving access to markets and cutting post-harvest losses.

Youth & Migration: NYC and KAS held an intergenerational dialogue in Kanifing on youth irregular migration, tackling myths and realities while pointing to education, entrepreneurship, skills and local jobs as safer alternatives. FGM Legal Battle: With The Gambia’s Supreme Court set to hear a case that could shape the 2015 FGM ban, survivors and activists say the fight is about protecting girls from harm rooted in “tradition.” Women in Politics: FLAG, with KAS support, consulted stakeholders on advancing women’s political participation, stressing representation as a democratic and governance need—not a favour. Domestic Violence Justice: The Banjul High Court sentenced Yugo Sowe to life imprisonment over a cutlass attack on his wife, Amie Sowe, citing attempted murder, grievous harm and domestic violence, with the victim left permanently disabled. Electricity Crisis Scrutiny: NHRC convened stakeholders over power cuts, but critics question the timing and the role of security agencies ahead of planned protests. Sports & Youth Development: Real Betis launched Real Betis Academy Gambia in Banjul, offering weekend training for ages 10–18. Culture Through Learning: Love to Sing Choir’s free concert in Casares Costa will raise funds for a children’s school in The Gambia.

Women’s Political Participation: FLAG and KAS Consult stakeholders on advancing women’s political participation in The Gambia, arguing it’s a democratic deficit when women (51% of the population) are underrepresented in lawmaking and party leadership, and calling for practical steps like electoral reform dialogue and better party financing for women candidates. Domestic Violence Justice: The High Court in Banjul sentenced Yugo Sowe to life imprisonment for a cutlass attack on his former wife, Amie Sowe, leaving her permanently disabled, in a case the judge described as among the most serious domestic violence matters before the court. Healthcare Scholarships: Merck Foundation marked World Health Day with First Ladies and health leaders, highlighting 2,600+ scholarships for healthcare providers across 52 countries and reaffirming capacity-building to improve equitable care in Africa and beyond. Football Development: Real Betis launched Real Betis Academy Gambia in Banjul, training players aged 10–18 at Father Gough Sports Complex, aiming at year-round technical and personal development. Sports & Culture Fundraiser: Love to Sing Choir hosts a free concert in Casares Costa on 26 June to raise funds for a children’s school in The Gambia, with proceeds from food and drinks supporting the project. Politics & Polls: President Barrow was endorsed at a massive NPP rally in Brikama ahead of December 5 polls, while the UDP accused Barrow of “personal attacks” in political rhetoric. Public Finance Oversight: The National Assembly asked the IGP to investigate alleged overpricing in the SWEDD project procurement of 14 Toyota Prado vehicles, citing D37M in losses.

Public Health Milestone: WHO validated Tunisia’s trachoma elimination, highlighting how long-term primary care and water, sanitation and hygiene efforts can beat preventable blindness. Gambia Governance & Youth: President Barrow launched the NPP manifesto and nine-point plan, while critics like UDP activist Lamin Chamang Komma say promises should be judged against results. Education & Skills: Barrow urged engineering graduates to innovate at USET’s second convocation and announced a Graduate Engineering Deployment Programme. Women, Health & Scholarships: Merck Foundation’s Africa Asia Luminary 2026 brought First Ladies together, alongside news of 2,600+ healthcare scholarships across 44 specialties. Community & Culture Fundraiser: Love to Sing Choir’s free summer concert in Casares Costa (26 June) will raise funds for a children’s school in The Gambia. Accountability Watch: The National Assembly asked the IGP to investigate alleged overpricing in a SWEDD Toyota Prado procurement. Youth Safety Call: A public appeal urges urgent action to curb rising youth violence and improve prevention and emergency response. Regional Cooperation: The Gambia says it wants to adopt Nigeria’s civil service transformation model through a study visit in Abuja.

Youth & Public Safety: A growing wave of youth violence is prompting calls for faster prevention, stronger community policing, and better emergency response as more deaths linked to altercations and attacks are reported. Politics & Accountability: US-based Gambian activist Lamin Chamang Komma says President Adama Barrow should be judged on performance, not fresh promises, after the NPP manifesto launch. Governance & Procurement: The National Assembly has asked the IGP to investigate alleged overpricing in the SWEDD project procurement of 14 Toyota Prado vehicles, citing D37M losses. Education & Skills: President Barrow launched a Graduate Engineering Deployment Programme at USET’s second convocation, urging engineers to innovate for national development. Culture & Community Giving: Love to Sing Choir’s free concert in Spain will raise funds to build a children’s school in The Gambia. Health & Lifestyle: With Insect Week (22–28 June), coverage highlights why mosquitoes remain a major malaria threat as cases rise and mosquitoes adapt. Women & Finance Skills: NAQAA launched a national TVET curriculum for financial cooperatives and microfinance practitioners. Faith & Peace: Barrow joined Eid al-Adha prayers in Banjul, urging peace and tolerance ahead of the election.

Eid al-Adha in Banjul: President Adama Barrow joined Tobaski prayers at King Fahd Mosque, urging peace, tolerance and law-abiding citizenship as the country heads toward another presidential election. Youth, health and learning: A Gambia–Tibu Africa sports and education deal was signed at State House to boost youth empowerment, education transformation and sports development. Women and trade: ECOWAS is hosting a Lomé event on women’s small-scale cross-border trade, spotlighting how borders can become drivers of inclusion and growth. Culture with a cause: Love to Sing Choir is staging a free Casares Costa concert (June 26) to fund construction of a children’s school in The Gambia. Healthcare scholarships: Merck Foundation’s Africa Asia Luminary 2026 highlighted 2,600+ scholarships for healthcare providers across underserved specialties. Coastal life under pressure: Residents along the Kotu Stream say WACA ResIP 2 demarcation work has left them unsure about flooding risks and possible relocation as rains approach. Art and global training: Gambian visual artist Anna Isatou Bah begins an international residency in Spain and Tenerife, aiming to bring new skills back to Sanyang and NCAC. Migration warning: EU Ambassador Immaculada Roca Cortés urged families to stop glorifying irregular migration and called for faster action on the new Immigration Bill.