United Nations in The Gambia

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth's environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in The Gambia. The Resident Coordinator leads the UN Country Team (UNCT) and ensures that the UN agencies support the national development priorities through three UNDAF outcome areas. These are: (i) Governance, Economic Management and Human Rights supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening national institutions responsible for economic and financial management and oversee reforms to guarantee people their human rights; (ii) Human capital development supporting access to education and health care services, improving equitable quality and access to water, sanitation and hygiene, social protection and gender and youth empowerment; and (iii) Sustainable agriculture, natural resources, environment and climate change management covering agricultural production and productivity, food and nutrition security, environmental management, mainstream climate change in environment and disaster risk management. The UN Country Team coordinate their work through joint Work Plans.

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Publication

30 March 2025

UN Gambia Annual Report 2024: Building Pathways To Sustainable Development

On behalf of the UN Country Team (UNCT) in The Gambia, we are pleased to present the 2024 One UN Annual Results Report. The report details how the UN collaborated with the Gambian government and development partners, working together to fulfil the accelerate SDG progress in The Gambia.

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Story

13 February 2026

How One Radio Show Changed the Conversation on Migration in The Gambia

“From an early age, the radio helped me feel connected to my community – the people, the food, the music, traditions and even religion,” Bintu Coker shares. In the early mornings, as the first roosters announced the morning and waves rolled in from the nearby Senegambia beach, the familiar jingle of her favourite show, Kinkiliba on Paradise FM 105.7, would drift through the house, marking the start of her day. Bintu was born a little over six months before the 22 July 1994 military takeover, a period that stifled press freedom and placed radio stations under tight control for the next 22 years in The Gambia. After several years, she learned about the regime’s clampdown on independent radio stations that had given space to public debate, but this did not fade her passion for radio and its vital contribution to shaping positive behaviours within communities.“I understood early on that radio gives people a voice and can be a powerful tool for change, especially in The Gambia at that time,” she explains. “When some stations were shut down in the 2000s simply for giving people a platform, it only made me admire journalists more. It made me want to do that work myself.”For over a decade, Bintu listened to radio as she commuted to school, and every show presented a new ‎opportunity to learn and get inspired. “For me, radio means more than a tool for entertainment. It’s a ‎medium for education, critical thinking and building relationships,” she shares. In 2017, as fate had it, Bintu enrolled at the School of Journalism and Digital Media at the University of The Gambia to pursue a bachelor’s degree in journalism. It marked a turning point in her academic journey and set the direction for her future career. “Two years into ‎my studies, I started working for QRadio, one of the commercial radio stations in the Greater Banjul ‎Area,” she says.With a population of over 2 million, migration plays a significant role in Gambian society. Since establishing its presence in 2001 and becoming a country office in July 2017, IOM The Gambia has expanded its work across the country. At the same time, growing public debate and increased attention from the Government and development partners created space for more open, informed conversations about migration and the choices people face.In November 2019, IOM launched a weekly programme, The Migration Hour, on QRadio to open up honest conversations about migration. The show explored safe migration pathways, the risks of irregular journeys, opportunities at home, migration health, and how mobility can contribute to development when it is well managed.As a young student-journalist at QRadio, Bintu had the opportunity to host the show. ‎‎“Migration was becoming a hot topic in the country at the time, so it was an honour to be designated ‎as the host.”The experience marked a turning point. What had started as curiosity began to feel like responsibility. Through the programme, she spoke directly with experts and returnees, listened to personal stories, and saw how easily misinformation could spread within communities. “Hosting the show strengthened my skills as a broadcaster,” she says. “But more than that, it deepened my understanding of migration and made me care about the issues in a very real way.”In The Gambia, radio remains one of the most powerful tools for community engagement. It reaches ‎remote villages without internet, households without television, and individuals with low literacy. For ‎Bintu, this accessibility is exactly why radio still matters. ‎‎“Radio can really help close the information gap,” she explains. “In places where internet access is limited or literacy is a challenge, it gives people information they can understand and trust. It’s affordable, it’s immediate, and when programmes are in our local languages, people feel connected to it.” Between September 2020 and January 2021, Bintu’s path shifted in a way she had not quite expected, though she remained in communications. “I first joined IOM in The Gambia as an intern,” she says. “A few months later, I found myself working as a staff member for the same organization whose radio programme I had once hosted.” She smiles at the thought, still visibly proud of how far she had come.As host of The Migration Hour, Bintu remembers one call that stayed with her. A young woman phoned into the programme and explained that an agent was arranging her travel abroad. But after listening to a survivor of trafficking share her experience on air, she began to recognize the same warning signs in her own situation. “After that, she decided not to go. That episode may have saved her life,” she says.For the next two years, Bintu worked alongside more than 50 returnee volunteers as a Project Assistant under the Migrants as Messengers project, a peer-to-peer initiative that helps young people in West Africa make informed decisions about migration. Drawing on her background in radio and communications, she supported the volunteers in sharing their own experiences and reaching others with clear, practical information about safe migration through community outreach and radio.Beyond migration, Bintu sees radio as something that helps people live together more peacefully. When different voices are heard – across ethnic, cultural, gender and generational lines – people begin to understand each other better. “Radio creates space for dialogue,” she says. “When people hear perspectives that are different from their own, it helps break down stereotypes and brings communities closer.”On this World Radio Day, Bintu says radio remains as relevant as ever in The Gambia, especially as the country navigates complex migration realities and social change. “Listen, share and act,” she urges. “Use radio to stay informed, make safe choices and look out for one another. Every voice matter and we all have a role in building a safer and more peaceful Gambia.”

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14 July 2025

Stitching a Brighter Future: The Transformative Journey of a Trafficking Survivor

In the bustling heart of Serrekunda, 19-year-old Fatou Jobe* once dreamed of gracing runways with her fashion designs. “I love fashion. I wanted to become a fashion designer,” she recalls, her voice tinged with both nostalgia and newfound determination. What she didn’t foresee, however, was that her path to this dream would pass through one of the darkest experiences a young woman could endure: surviving human trafficking.Fatou’s journey began like that of many others. Coming from a modest background and having been forced to leave school due to financial hardship, her opportunities for employment were nearly nonexistent. “I am not from a rich family, so when things got tough, I had to sacrifice my education,” she says. “I dropped out of school,” she adds, her disappointment evident.Caught between economic hardship and the allure of opportunities abroad – a narrative deeply ingrained in many communities – Fatou was vulnerable. She was approached with what seemed like a lifeline: a promise of a well-paying job in Cairo, Egypt. “I was desperate to make money to support my family,” she explains. “She [my trafficker] told me I was going to secure a good job to earn a decent income. This enticed me and led me into my reality.”Despite her initial misgivings – how fast everything was arranged and the fact that it cost her nothing – she accepted the offer. Her journey from Banjul through Casablanca to Cairo was swift and shrouded in uncertainty. Upon arrival, she met her trafficker’s husband. In a terrifying turn of events typical in trafficking scenarios, he confiscated her passport and handed her over to unknown men. “That was just the beginning,” Fatou says.Over the next eight months, Fatou was forced to work in four different homes under grueling conditions. The treatment she endured was degrading and abusive. At her final placement, the situation worsened. She was made to work almost non-stop and suffered repeated sexual abuse, eventually becoming pregnant. “The last workplace was the worst of all,” she reveals. “I worked – as a maid – day and night with little to no time to rest. And my ‘master’ raped me whenever he felt like.”Realizing the promise of a “good job” was a lie, and with her pregnancy progressing, Fatou made the courageous decision to return home. “The suffering was too much. I was pregnant, so I decided to voluntarily return,” she says.In October 2023, she returned to The Gambia under the EU-funded Migrant Protection, Return and Reintegration Programme in Sub-Saharan Africa (MPRR-SSA), which supports migrants with voluntary return and sustainable reintegration. Fatou feared judgment and stigma, but the sight of her father waiting for her at Banjul International Airport washed away her worries. “It was heartwarming to return and my dad receiving me with open arms,” she beams.Upon arrival, she was provided with temporary accommodation and prenatal medical care. “I was given temporary accommodation, and the IOM medical team provided the necessary support until I delivered,” she notes. In due time, she gave birth to a healthy baby girl – Mariama, the light at the end of her harrowing journey.Through EU-funded reintegration assistance, Fatou received a cash-based intervention that allowed her to pursue her dream. She opened a small tailoring business, which now helps support her and her daughter. “I was paying a lot of money for rent and this was not sustainable, so I decided to close the shop and now work in my house,” she shares. “I am now using TikTok and Instagram to reach out to possible buyers, and this is paying off,” she adds with optimism.Fatou is committed to turning her painful experience into purpose. She hopes her journey will inspire others – especially young women facing similar crossroads – to remain hopeful, resilient, and courageous.

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14 July 2025

The Dual Burden of Migration: Understanding the Plight of Families Left Behind in The Gambia

“Your father accepted your hand in marriage on your behalf, in fact, your soon-to-be husband is abroad. You’ve made us all proud!”On the only mattress in her one-bedroom apartment — shared with her mom, sister and daughter — Tida Sonko* vividly recalls the night her parents agreed to her bride price. For her mother, it was a moment of immeasurable joy, fulfilling what she considered a treasured societal parental obligation: raising a daughter and witnessing her marriage.Tida knew little about her soon-to-be husband, apart from the fact that he had been living in Côte d’Ivoire for a decade. Though this caused her some anxiety, the enthusiasm of her parents, friends and relatives gradually dispelled her unease. Their celebration of marrying a man abroad overshadowed her initial doubts.“I never met the man, so I had no idea who I was marrying,” she admits. “This made me uncomfortable initially, but almost everyone told me he’s abroad so my life will be transformed,” she adds.In late 2019, Tida’s traditional wedding took place. Her husband Karamba Saidy* returned to The Gambia to meet his bride for the first time. He stayed for a little over three months before heading back to Côte d’Ivoire, promising Tida — pregnant at the time — that she would join him soon.Now, five years later, Tida is still waiting for Karamba’s return. She has been left with the full weight of managing her household and caring for her mom, sister and daughter. This includes responsibilities like domestic care work, education, healthcare and meeting daily needs. With her husband’s ongoing struggles in Côte d’Ivoire, Tida sees no signs of improvement in her situation. Additionally, her worries are compounded by societal expectations that a husband living abroad should consistently send money home. The pressure from Tida’s community stems from a stigma associated with her circumstances, making it difficult for her to seek assistance and overcome the status quo. “My husband does not have any decent job and therefore is unable to take care of us,” she says. “I cannot explain this to everyone because society has certain expectations, this makes our circumstances hard,” she adds.Tida and her family’s reality is no different from many in The Gambia, where many (male) spouses migrate, leaving women and families to face relentless challenges in meeting their basic needs.According to the UNDESA, there are about 72,000 Gambians living outside their country of origin in 2024. Tida’s case exemplifies a widespread issue: families left behind by Gambian migrants face a dual burden of economic hardship and the absence of the household primary caregiver — quite often a husband and a father.In response to this complex issue, IOM The Gambia launched a targeted project in January 2024. Partnering with the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare and supported by the IOM Development Fund, this research and capacity development project — Building Evidence and Developing Capacity to Inform Policy and Programmatic Response for the Protection of Families Left Behind in The Gambia — set out to better understand and address the challenges faced by these families. “Ensuring migration is well-managed to benefit all is top priority for us as a Ministry and Government. We cannot deliver our shared objectives in this without mechanisms — including policies and programmes for the protection and safety of women and children in vulnerable conditions as a result of migration.”Abraham K Mendy, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, The GambiaThis initiative seeks to overcome the challenges of finding evidence on migration’s impact on vulnerable families. By focusing on gender-sensitive approaches and targeting the Central River and Upper River Regions, it aims to support the government’s efforts to protect families left behind while enhancing their role in sustainable development.“We recognize the importance of migration to the socioeconomic development of The Gambia, and this even needs further harnessing; however, we cannot lose sight of vulnerabilities as a result of migration, especially on women and children. We cannot address these without evidence, hence the significance of this project.”Marie Stella Ndiaye, Programme Manager, IOM The GambiaIn June 2024, IOM and partners began conducting an assessment that collected key information from a cross-section of the Gambian society. The findings underscored the unique challenges and opportunities migration creates for families left behind. Women, particularly wives of migrants, are disproportionately affected. It was found that females make up 55.3 per cent of family members left behind, and that wives account for 81.7 per cent of spouses left behind. This highlights the gendered dimensions of migration and the importance of evidence-based research on these issues.The project involved capacity development activities targeting government officials, state and non-state actors to improve the general understanding of the protection of women and children’s rights. These also aimed to improve the impact of migration on families left behind. By reinforcing its commitments, IOM, alongside the government, has taken significant strides towards strengthening policies and programmes aimed at social protection and safety nets — particularly for women and children.While Tida’s story is emblematic of a wider reality, these efforts align with key frameworks, including the Government’s Recovery Focused National Development Plan RF-NDP (2023–2027), the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2024–2028, the Global Compact on Migration (GCM) Objectives 2 (Minimize Adverse Drivers), 6 (Recruitment and Decent Work), 7 (Reduce Vulnerability), and 22 (Social Protection), and the Sustainable Development Goals.

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09 July 2025

From Online to Onstage: A First-Timer’s Experience at a Trade Fair

Participating in trade shows is crucial for the growth of small businesses. It provides small businesses opportunities to sell, network and enhance their visibility. Yet, many entrepreneurs, especially in least developed countries, struggle to participate in trade fairs due to high costs. That was the case for Mariama S. Ceesay, founder of Her Sacred Veil, a bespoke fashion brand in The Gambia.“I had never participated in a trade show before because I did not have the financial means to cover the cost of a stall,” Mariama shared. “As a small business owner, most of my resources were focused on production and fulfilling customer orders.”That changed when the European Union Youth Empowerment Project – Tourism and Creative Industries, funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC), stepped in. The project covered 90% of her stall fee, provided training and visibility products.“The project offered training and helped with branding. I was also given an e-business card to enhance my professional image. Additionally, they organized engaging activities around our stalls to attract more visitors and increase visibility for our businesses,” she said.Before the fair, Her Sacred Veil operated mostly online. “I was mainly selling my products online through TikTok and WhatsApp. I used TikTok to showcase my products and reach a wider audience, while WhatsApp helped me manage orders and communicate directly with customers,” Mariama explained. At the trade fair, she displayed her bespoke pieces, garments she designed to style and personality of customers. “I used the opportunity to show the quality, creativity and craftsmanship that go into every outfit I design,” she said. For a first timer, the experience was a breakthrough. Mariama made some sales, gained customers and built network. “I gained some new customers and received a few orders during and after the trade fair. I also made some useful business contacts that could lead to future opportunities,” she noted.The highlight for Mariam was connecting directly with new customers and hearing their positive feedback about her bespoke outfits. “It was also exciting to see people appreciate my designs in person and place orders on the spot.”Still, there were challenges. She did not hit her target in terms of sales, but the trade fair for her is much more than making sales. “Sales were lower than expected, but I learned a lot, especially about converting interest into purchases.”Now, she is thinking bigger. She plans to attend more fairs and seek for support to acquire equipment and a showroom. “I’m currently working with one sewing machine. I dream of getting an overlock machine and creating a space that truly showcases my brand.”

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08 July 2025

UN Deputy Secretary-General Reinforces Partnership with The Gambia to Accelerate SDG Progress and Youth Empowerment

The UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J Mohammed concluded a strategic visit to The Gambia on 7 July 2025, reinforcing the UN’s commitment to supporting the country's development priorities and accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through strengthened partnerships and innovative local solutions. During her visit, the Deputy Secretary-General held crucial discussions with His Excellency the President, emphasizing mutual commitment to working together on Gambia's development priorities, SDG acceleration, and ongoing reform efforts. The engagements underscored the UN's dedication to supporting The Gambia's transformation agenda while ensuring alignment with global development frameworks. "No single person or party can attain the SDGs," emphasized Deputy Secretary-General Mohammed. "It requires everyone's efforts from government leaders to grassroots communities, from international partners to local innovators."The Deputy Secretary-General's comprehensive engagement included productive meetings with the First Lady, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, the UN Country Team, and members of the diplomatic community and development partners. These discussions focused on strengthening multi-stakeholder collaboration across key priority areas including youth empowerment, gender equality, economic development, climate action, transitional justice, and the principle of leaving no one behind. A highlight of the visit was the Deputy Secretary-General's tour of the Bakoteh Production and Innovation Centre, a flagship initiative under the Youth Empowerment Project representing a transformative partnership between the United Nations and Kanifing Municipal Council. The Centre exemplifies how local innovation can drive global progress, providing fully-funded training programs in sewing, weaving, and other marketable skills to young people, with a particular focus on empowering women, creating a production hub that bridges skills development with economic opportunity. During her visit, the Deputy Secretary-General witnessed firsthand how young women are being equipped with technical skills and entrepreneurial capabilities, transforming not only their individual prospects but contributing to broader community development and national economic growth. The success of the Center reflects effective partnership between international organizations, local government, and communities – a model that can be replicated and scaled across the country and region which can contribute meaningfully to global progress toward the 2030 Agenda. Discussions with the diplomatic community and development partners emphasized the need for coordinated support that responds to local priorities while contributing to global development objectives, as well as using the upcoming reforms as opportunities, including the financing for the development. The engagement reinforced The Gambia's position as a country making significant strides in democratic governance, social inclusion, and sustainable development.The Deputy Secretary-General's visit concluded with a renewed commitment of the United Nations to supporting The Gambia's development journey through enhanced partnership, innovative solutions, unwavering commitment to leaving no one behind and sustained collaboration to achieve the SDGs. As The Gambia continues its journey of reform, the UN remains committed to supporting initiatives that empower youth, advance gender equality, promote climate resilience and create sustainable opportunities for all Gambians.

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Press Release

06 February 2026

No Excuse, No Exception: Ending Female Genital Mutilation in The Gambia

As we observe the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to protect the life, health, dignity, and rights of every girl and woman in The Gambia.Female genital mutilation (FGM) remains a serious concern. Despite the important progress made through the Women’s Amendment Act of 2015, this harmful practice continues to affect too many families and communities. For the girls who experience it, and for the women who live with its consequences, FGM brings lasting physical and psychological harm. This reality calls for renewed and sustained collective action.According to 2019-2020 DHS more than three quarters of Gambian women aged 15 to 49 have undergone FGM. Behind these figures are individuals whose lives have been shaped by pain, health complications, distress and trauma which unfortunately, is still present in our communities today. In 2026 alone, 21,198 girls are at risk of FGM, with the number accumulating to 150,415 by 2030. Not long ago, in 2025, two babies have tragically died as a consequence of FGM. These are our daughters, sisters, neighbors, and friends. This is not just numbers nor does it show an abstract issue. It actually represents the lives of women and girls we have made promises to protect, empower and to live fulfilled lives. Research has confirmed there is absolutely no medical or any other kind of benefit, associated with FGM. Instead, it carries significant risks, including severe bleeding, infection, complications during childbirth, long-term emotional distress and even death. Women and girls in The Gambia and beyond have guaranteed rights from global, regional and national laws to bodily autonomy, safety, and the opportunity to reach her full potential.As we battle with significant threats and challenges to registered gains in protecting women and girls, it is of paramount importance to recognize the highly important roles played by key stakeholders including traditional leaders, civil society organizations, religious authorities, health workers, parents and young people who have put in concerted efforts working toward abandonment of FGM in The Gambia. Their courage and commitment commend strong recognition and require our continued support.Culture is dynamic. Across human history, societies have evolved by letting go or banning nefarious practices that do not serve the wellbeing of their people. Protecting girls from harm is fully compatible with Gambian values of care, dignity, and community solidarity.The Government of The Gambia demonstrated its leadership in 2015 by enacting legislation to prohibit and penalize FGM. Moving forward, continued and concerted efforts are needed to strengthen implementation, expand awareness, support survivors, and ensure that communities are fully engaged in prevention and shifting social norms on harmful practices. Laws are the foundation but are most effective when they are accompanied by education, dialogue, and locally driven solutions. In addition, the effectiveness of the law is mostly felt, when it is fully applied and FGM perpetrators brought to justice . Equally, men are our important allies and have an important role to play. Fathers, brothers, husbands, uncles and community leaders can help create environments where girls are protected, respected, and where families feel supported and empowered to say ‘no’ to FGM. Communities also play a central role. Mothers who decide not to subject their daughters to FGM should be empowered, encouraged and respected. Particularly grandmothers have a role to play in the fight against FGM as they are an important pillar of the circle of trust. Survivors who share their experiences should be met with compassion and care. Young girls who are at risk should be supported to build their agencies and bodily autonomy, comprehensive health services, psychosocial support, and safe spaces are essential components of healing and ending FGM.Furthermore, education remains one of our strongest tools. Girls who stay in school, understand their rights, and have access to economic opportunities are better equipped to make informed choices for themselves and for future generations. Investing in girls is investing in the nation’s sustainable development. They, and only then, have the rights to their own body. Their bodies, theirs rights!The United Nations (UN) in The Gambia stands ready to continue supporting the ongoing national efforts. Together with the Government, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and communities. The UN works to strengthen prevention, strengthen health systems, consolidate access to quality and inclusive education, improve survivor services, and amplify positive voices advocating for change.Ultimately, sustainable progress must be driven from within. Ending FGM requires collective ownership and shared commitment. It requires open dialogue, mutual respect, rule of law, access to justice, democracy and a focus on the wellbeing of women and girlsI strongly believe in a Gambia where every girl grows up healthy and empowered, where her body is respected, and where her future is shaped by opportunity rather than harm. This vision is achievable. The girls of the Gambia must be able to learn, lead, decide and thrive.On this International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, I invite everyone to continue this important journey together. Let us talk openly, support one another, uphold the law, and protect the most vulnerable among us.Female genital mutilation is a violence against women and girls. It is a crime and a grave violation of human rights that has scarred generations of Gambian girls and women, and it must end. Gambian faith and values do not promote harm, and we need to uphold that.Zero tolerance is not about blame. It is about care. It is about responsibility. It is about ensuring that every girl can grow up safe, confident, empowered, and free.The choices we make today will define the future of Gambian girls. Let us choose protection, dignity, and hope.

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Press Release

04 February 2026

UNDP and Africell offer better digital connectivity to young innovators in Sierra Leone and The Gambia

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Africell are teaming up to provide better digital connectivity to UNDP’s timbuktoo University Innovation Pods (UniPods) in Sierra Leone and The Gambia. The partnership will see Africell providing essential digital connectivity services to the UniPods, including 4G MiFi devices, high‑speed internet, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. These contributions will enable young innovators working in the Unipods to develop, test, and scale solutions to local and global development challenges. Ziad Dalloul, Africell Group CEO and President of the Africell Impact Foundation, says: “This collaboration plays to everyone’s strengths by combining Africell’s connectivity expertise with UNDP’s innovation network. By equipping the UniPods in Sierra Leone and The Gambia with Africell’s signature internet services, we are investing in young Africans and helping to turn raw talent into successful enterprise”. Beyond connectivity, UNDP and Africell will collaborate on innovation and accelerator programmes designed to increase participation in the UniPods and deepen their long-term social impact. For example: these programmes will leverage robotics, entrepreneurship and digital skills courses that the Africell Impact Foundation is already delivering through its own network of learning centres in West Africa. The agreement underscores UNDP’s commitment to expanding Africa’s home-grown innovation ecosystem under the timbuktoo initiative. “Digital inclusion is key to Africa’s innovation future. This partnership expands digital access and gives young innovators the connectivity they need to turn ideas into impactful solutions. When we invest in young people’s talents and remove barriers to opportunity, we accelerate Africa’s path to competitiveness, and inclusive growth”, explains Ahunna Eziakonwa, Assistant UN Secretary General and Director of UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa. UNDP’s UniPods are high‑tech maker and innovation spaces in public universities that equip young people with the tools and skills to turn ideas into market‑ready solutions. UniPods fall within UNDP’s broader timbuktoo initiative, which is a series of programmes designed to boost investment in African founders and startups – including, in addition to UniPods, the timbuktoo Policy Labs and several thematic industry ‘hubs’ in major African cities. ENDS About AfricellAfricell is a leading African mobile network operator providing mobile and digital services in Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo, The Gambia and Sierra Leone. Through the Africell Impact Foundation, Africell supports community development, digital learning, arts, and youth empowerment initiatives aimed at building stronger and more connected societies. Learn more at: https://www.africell.com About UNDPUNDP is the leading United Nations agency fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet. Learn more at undp.org/ http://www.undp.org/africa or follow @UNDP and @UNDPAfrica. For all media queries:Sam Williams, Group Communications Director, Africell, media@africell.comPraise Nutakor, Partnerships and Communications Specialist, UNDP Africa, New York, praise.nutakor@undp.org

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Press Release

09 January 2026

Strengthening Agricultural Data Collection Through Improved Operational Mobility in The Gambia

● UNOPS officially hands over 85 motorcycles and safety equipment to the Gambia
Bureau of Statistics under the World Bank-funded HISWACA programme
● The delivered equipment is aimed at enhancing GBOS operational mobility to collect
high-quality harmonized data across the country, in preparation for the 2026
National Agricultural Sample Census.
Banjul, Gambia.— UNOPS officially handed over 85 motorcycles and related safety equipment to the Gambia Bureau of Statistics (GBOS), thereby enhancing the institution’s capacity to gather timely and high-quality data across the country.
The handover marks a key milestone under the World Bank-funded regional statistics harmonization and improvement programme, HISWACA, designed to improve country statistical performance, regional harmonization, data access and use, and to enhance modernization of the statistical system across West Africa.
During the ceremony held at the GBOS premises, UNOPS delivered 85 motorcycles, along with associated safety equipment, ensuring that enumerators and field staff can execute their duties safely and effectively. This support will also encompass the procurement and delivery of two SUVs, further enhancing GBOS's logistical capabilities and operational mobility, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.
The newly delivered motorcycles and equipment are essential for supporting the GBOS’s preparations for the upcoming Agricultural Census scheduled for 2026, enabling field teams to reach communities nationwide. The new National Agricultural Sample Census will gather crucial information on farming practices, livestock and livelihoods, serving as a
reliable basis for agricultural planning and policy and to support food security and poverty alleviation strategies.
ENDS
Notes to the editors: Press contact details:
Souhaila Merzougui, Communications Senior Officer, UNOPS West Africa Multi Country Office | souhailam@unops.org
About UNOPS
UNOPS offers practical solutions across peace and security, humanitarian and development operations. We help the United Nations, governments and other partners to manage projects, and deliver sustainable infrastructure and procurement across the world.
Read more: www.unops.org.
About the World Bank
The World Bank Group is an international development organization with 189 member countries. It works to reduce poverty and boost shared prosperity on a livable planet by providing policy advice, technical expertise, and financing to the governments of low- and middle-income countries.

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Press Release

10 December 2025

Press Release Human Rights Day 2025

On the occasion of Human Rights Day 2025, the United Nations in The Gambia joins the global community in commemorating the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) which was adopted on today’s date in 1948. Today, we renew our collective commitment to safeguarding the dignity and rights of all people, and this year’s theme, “Our Everyday Essentials”, is a powerful reminder that human rights are not abstract ideals reserved for special occasions, but they are the fundamental conditions that shape our daily lives.As enshrined in the UDHR, everyone regardless of background, identity, or circumstance depends on essential rights to live with dignity and freedom. Health care, education, clean water, food security, justice, freedom: these aren't luxuries. They're the essentials that transform rights on paper into dignity in practice. When basic human rights are respected, protected, and realized, societies become more resilient, inclusive, and equitable.In The Gambia, progress continues in strengthening democratic governance, expanding civic participation, advancing women's and children's rights, and implementing recommendations of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission. Yet challenges persist: gender-based violence, harmful traditional practices, climate vulnerability, and inequalities affecting women, persons with disabilities, youth, and marginalized communities.As we commemorate the 76th anniversary of the UDHR, the United Nations in The Gambia encourages all partners to build a society where every person can access the essentials for a dignified life. Ensuring human rights is central to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and sustaining the gains of The Gambia's democratic transition.Through joint programs and partnerships, the UN continues to support national institutions, civil society organizations, and communities to strengthen access to justice, expand health and education services, support security sector reform, and advance peacebuilding processes.The UN Resident Coordinator calls on all Gambians, policymakers and communities, religious leaders and youth, media and civil society, women's groups and the private sector to champion the rights that sustain everyday life. Human Rights Day 2025 reminds us that dignity begins at home, in our communities, and in our daily choices.

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Press Release

05 December 2025

Peacebuilding Fund Partners Mission to The Gambia

The United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office, and the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) Secretariat in The Gambia will welcome a high-level Donor mission led by the Peacebuilding Support Office (PBSO) to Banjul from 8 to 12 December 2025. This mission aims to strengthen partnerships, showcase peacebuilding achievements, and explore opportunities for sustained collaboration in advancing The Gambia’s peace and development agenda.Since 2017, the Peacebuilding Fund has played a pivotal role in supporting The Gambia’s transition and peacebuilding priorities, including transitional justice, inclusive governance, social cohesion, land and natural resource management, gender equality, and youth empowerment. The upcoming mission will provide an opportunity for partners to engage
directly with national stakeholders, civil society, and communities benefiting from PBF supported projects, while assessing progress and identifying lessons learned for future programming.
The mission will feature high-level meetings with the Government of The Gambia, including the Office of the President, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Gender, Ministry of Interior and the Office of National Security. Delegates will also visit Upper River Region and Central River Region to observe community peacebuilding initiatives, gender empowerment programs, and cross-border cooperation projects. In addition, engagements with civil society
organizations will focus on transitional justice, human rights, and youth inclusion, culminating in a CSO convening on youth, media, and peace.
Speaking ahead of the mission, M. Karl-Fredrick Paul, UN Resident Coordinator in The Gambia, stated: “This visit is a testament to the strong partnership between The Gambia and the United Nations in advancing peacebuilding and inclusive development. It will provide an opportunity to showcase achievements, assess remaining challenges, and engage in fruitful discussions to chart a path forward for sustaining peace.”
Ms. Bushra Hassan, representing the UN Peacebuilding Support Office, and leading the delegation, added: "The Peacebuilding Fund is proud to accompany The Gambia as it advances nationally led efforts to consolidate peace and build strong institutions. This mission enables us to hear directly from Government and community actors so the Fund can remain aligned with their priorities and aspirations."
The mission is expected to enhance visibility of peacebuilding achievements and challenges in The Gambia, strengthen collaboration between national actors, civil society, and international partners, and generate recommendations to inform future peacebuilding strategies and resource mobilization efforts.

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